#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Ericsson #stc Group

Advancing Digital Connectivity: stc Group Teams Up with Ericsson

In a significant move to bolster the digital framework of Saudi Arabia, stc Group, one of the top digital enablers in the region, has inked a five-year Master Frame Agreement (MFA) with global leader Ericsson. This partnership aims to accelerate the delivery and enhancement of digital infrastructure throughout the Kingdom, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan.

The collaboration was announced on December 16, 2025, marking a new chapter in the longstanding relationship between stc and Ericsson, which dates back to the successful launch of one of the first 5G networks in the Kingdom in 2019. Under the new agreement, stc Group will leverage Ericsson’s advanced technology offerings, which include cutting-edge 5G hardware and software, cloud-native solutions, and state-of-the-art managed services. This comprehensive suite of offerings is expected to catalyze technology adoption and innovation across various sectors within Saudi Arabia.

At the heart of this partnership is the commitment to enhancing connectivity and driving digital transformation. Abdullah M. Alowini, Vice President of Supply Chain at stc Group, expressed optimism about the agreement, stating, "This long-term agreement with Ericsson reinforces stc's commitment to driving digital transformation and innovation in Saudi Arabia. By leveraging advanced technologies, we aim to deliver cutting-edge connectivity that empowers our customers and accelerates enterprise innovation."

The MFA includes a variety of promising features, such as the rollout of 5G Standalone and 5G Advanced, which are set to enhance network capabilities significantly. Additional offerings will include Massive MIMO technology and Ericsson's Radio System products, alongside management solutions for infrastructure and networks, even accommodating third-party product (3PP) components. This technology will provide unprecedented opportunities for developing innovative services and solutions that cater to both consumers and enterprises alike.

Moreover, Håkan Cervell, Vice President and Head of Ericsson Saudi Arabia, emphasized the importance of this partnership in realizing the objectives of Vision 2030. He noted, "We are deeply committed to ensuring that Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 becomes a reality. Our collaboration with stc is critical in delivering the digital infrastructure necessary to support the country’s economic competitiveness and innovation goals."

The enhanced partnership paves the way for stc Group to drive innovation, efficiency, and entrepreneurship on a new level. One key feature, the 5G Standalone network slicing, will allow for differentiated connectivity, creating a multitude of business opportunities across various segments in Saudi Arabia.

Through this agreement, stc Group will also capitalize on Ericsson’s Managed Services capabilities, ultimately optimizing network performance. This improvement is vital as it addresses the requirements for a scalable, resilient, and future-ready mobile network, while also promoting digital inclusion and forward-thinking technology adoption across the nation.

The agreement aligns with stc Group’s long-term vision of preparing for 6G technology and developing cognitive self-optimizing networks. It reinforces stc's vital role in advancing national priorities pertaining to digital infrastructure, enhancing public safety networks, and fostering digital inclusion, all contributing to increased competitiveness on national, regional, and global levels.

This collaboration represents not just a business venture but a strategic alliance aimed at propelling Saudi Arabia toward a digitally empowered future. With stc Group at the forefront of this transformation, the future of digital connectivity in the Kingdom looks brighter than ever.