stc has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) to further the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) development goals set out in the Saudi Vision 2030. Formalized at Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2021, the partnership will focus on ICT development in Riyadh, the Saudi Arabian capital. 

 

The MoU seeks to enhance the user experience of stc customers, provide a boost in network performance, and upgrade the stc network for seamless operation with emerging technologies such as edge computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

 

The Saudi Vision 2030 mentions under the section: “A developed digital infrastructure” that a sophisticated digital infrastructure is integral to today’s advanced industrial activities. It attracts investors and enhances the fundamental competitiveness of the Saudi economy. 

With its increased investments in technology over the past few years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is at the fore front of cultivating a digital economy. ICT development, and the adoption of 5G, are being accelerated in the line with the kingdom’s ambition to have Riyadh as one of the world’s top ten city economies by 2030.

 

stc, together with Ericsson, is ensuring that its network is ready to support the influx of devices, data and technologies expected as Saudi Vision 2030 comes to fruition. 5G allows for a variety of innovative applications, increased speeds for enhanced user experience, and more effective communication with edge and IoT devices — all essential components of a thriving digital economy. 

 

Eng. Haithem Alfaraj, Senior Vice President Technology and Operations Unit at stc says:” We are happy to be partnering with Ericsson again as we continue to evolve our networks to be able to play a core part in achieving Vision 2030. We are already seeing the impact of 5G on businesses and the economy, and expect ICT development to become even more crucial as the Kingdom continues evolving in line with its digital transformation.  Our networks are well-positioned to provide individuals and businesses with a seamless experience as they too evolve the way they work in response to new opportunities.”  

Mathias Johansson, Vice President and Head of Saudi Arabia and Egypt, Ericsson Middle East and Africa, says: “Our new partnership with stc will support them in accelerating their plans to help realize achieve Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, as the enhanced ICT networks will allow for technologies like edge computing, AI and automation to drive the development of new services for both consumers and enterprises. This encompasses advanced applications for gaming, entertainment, and education, as well as ways to elevate and automate the operations of businesses, addressing the challenges of Industry 4.0.”