Nokia has signed a strategic partnership with Ooredoo Group to offer an array of technologies to its customers in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia.
In addition to expanding Ooredoo's existing network, Nokia will introduce new 5G services under the five-year agreement. The firm will also offer RAN, core, optics, IP, and microwave technologies.
A major part of Nokia's 5G deployment plan includes rolling out its AirScale RAN equipment in North Africa and Southeast Asia. The deal also includes technical support and digital deployment services to speed up time to market.
Ooredoo Group managing director Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo said: “This renewed contract is testimony to our growing partnership with Nokia to modernize and expand our network by rolling out world-class 4G and 5G services across North Africa and Southeast Asia.
"Thanks to Nokia’s advanced technology, our customers will be able to experience faster speeds and enhanced response times as well as more bandwidth.”
Ooredoo will also gain zero-touch automation capabilities from Nokia's cloud-native Core software. Additionally, Nokia's Cloud Packet Core, Voice Core, Registers, Policy Controller, Signaling, and Cloud Platform will allow Ooredoo to implement new network slicing services across healthcare, smart cities, banking, transportation, and the public sector.
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Through zero-touch transparent photonic networking, Nokia's optical solutions will ensure greater network flexibility and operational automation. The firm's microwave solutions support new spectrums such as E-band.
Nokia president and CEO Pekka Lundmark said: “We are excited to continue delivering robust networks to Ooredoo’s customers. This new five-year deal will accelerate the benefits of Nokia’s technology – including 5G – for consumers in Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia and will enable businesses to digitalize and innovate with new services.
"The move to 5G will drive radical transformation across industries, communities and public services and we are proud to continue supporting Ooredoo Group on this journey.”
