stc Group and Ericsson Sign Five-Year Framework Agreement to Advance Saudi Arabia’s Digital Infrastructure
stc Group, a key enabler of digital transformation in the Kingdom, has signed a five-year framework agreement with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) aimed at accelerating the deployment of advanced digital infrastructure and expanding the adoption of cutting-edge digital technologies across Saudi Arabia.
Under the agreement, stc Group will leverage Ericsson’s latest solutions, including 5G hardware and software, cloud-based platforms, advanced managed services, and network and infrastructure support services, in addition to selected third-party products. The collaboration is designed to support stc’s efforts to enhance network performance, scalability, and resilience while meeting the growing demand for high-quality digital services.
As part of the partnership, stc will accelerate the expansion of its 5G network and roll out advanced technologies such as 5G Standalone (5G SA), 5G Advanced, Massive MIMO radio technology, Ericsson Radio System products, cloud platforms, and network management solutions. These capabilities will enable stc to deliver more reliable, flexible, and high-performance connectivity for consumers and enterprises alike.
The agreement builds on a long-standing partnership between stc and Ericsson, which has delivered several milestones over the years, including the deployment of one of the Kingdom’s first 5G networks in 2019.
Commenting on the agreement, Abdullah Al-Owini, Vice President of Supply Chain at stc Group, said the long-term partnership reflects the group’s commitment to driving digital transformation and innovation in Saudi Arabia. He noted that stc aims to harness the latest technologies to deliver advanced connectivity services, accelerate innovation in the business sector, and support the Kingdom’s ambition to build a globally competitive digital economy.
Håkan Cervell, Vice President and Head of Ericsson Saudi Arabia, said that Ericsson shares stc’s vision of supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives. He added that Ericsson will continue to work closely with stc to develop Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure and strengthen the Kingdom’s position on the global stage, in line with national development goals.
Through this expanded partnership, stc will enhance innovation and operational efficiency while supporting entrepreneurship and new business models. The group will benefit from advanced capabilities such as 5G Standalone network slicing to deliver differentiated connectivity services tailored to the needs of individuals and enterprises, unlocking new revenue opportunities. In addition, Ericsson’s advanced managed services will help optimize network performance and further improve service quality for customers.
The collaboration will also support stc’s requirements for a flexible, scalable, and future-ready mobile network, enabling wider adoption of digital technologies and promoting digital inclusion across the Kingdom.
The expanded partnership aligns with stc’s long-term strategic vision, which includes readiness for future 6G networks and the development of advanced, self-optimizing networks. It further reinforces stc’s role as a key contributor to national priorities related to digital infrastructure development, public network resilience, and digital inclusion, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s competitiveness at the national, regional, and global levels.