Zain Group Selects Ericsson to Create its 'Roadmap to 5G'

Zain Group and Ericsson have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop and test selected 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) cases.

The MoU, signed during Mobile World Congress 2018 in Barcelona, demonstrates the commitment of both companies to bringing next-generation connectivity and its accompanying benefits to the Middle East and Africa.

The new partnership will accelerate digitalization in the region, enabling rapid deployment of innovative services in the Internet of Things (IoT) in the coming years. The agreement covers technical demonstrations and strengthens technical cooperation between the two companies and will ensure smooth 4G to 5G evolution across Zain’s networks.

Bader Al Kharafi, Zain Vice Chairman and Group CEO says: “Zain is committed to bringing the latest technology and cutting-edge services to its customers. 5G will open the door for new applications that will transform consumer behavior and industries. By introducing these new technologies, we will enrich the digital lifestyles of individuals and support the growth and development of businesses we serve by creating new opportunities for them to grow.”

Rafiah Ibrahim, Head of Ericsson Middle East and Africa, says: “We believe next generation technology and its applications will provide tangible benefits in the real-world. Ericsson have enjoyed a long and successful history of collaboration with Zain and this new agreement demonstrates our ongoing support in transforming their networks to enable these benefits for users around the Middle East and Africa region.”

5G technology will enable massive connectivity and open up new markets to (IoT). Consumers and enterprises will be able to take advantage of a seamless experience on their connected devices; they will be able to adopt and invest in new applications such as smart transportation, connected cars and appliances, remote health care and remote control of machinery.