The stc 5G expansion across Saudi Arabia entered a new phase following a multi-year deal signed with Ericsson at the LEAP 2026 conference in Riyadh. Under the agreement, both companies will add network sites and increase capacity across stc’s infrastructure footprint.
The project includes the deployment of 5G Standalone technology alongside preparations for differentiated connectivity services. In addition, the agreement extends Ericsson’s software subscription model to stc group, ensuring continuous updates to network systems.
Hardware Details of the stc 5G expansion
The rollout includes the commercial deployment of the Ericsson Radio 4496 unit, part of the Ericsson Radio System portfolio. This quad-band Frequency Division Duplexing unit combines four low-frequency bands into a single 400-watt hardware module. Specifically, it integrates stc group’s 600 MHz spectrum to broaden wide-area coverage while reducing operational energy consumption.
Deployments will also feature low-band radios supporting 600 MHz, Massive MIMO units, mid-band radios, baseband hardware, and dedicated radio access network software. Furthermore, this hardware configuration allows stc to optimize spectrum assets for the broader telecommunications sector in the Kingdom.
Coverage for Rural Areas and Key Industries
Combining 600 MHz low-band frequencies with mid-band hardware is set to improve indoor penetration and expand coverage into rural and remote regions. Outside of fiber broadband networks, the updated infrastructure will support Fixed Wireless Access for residential and business consumers using smart devices.
Industrial sectors are also targeted to benefit from the network upgrade. The expanded capacity will support operations across logistics, mining, energy, public services, and the national tourism sector.
Executive Statements on the Agreement
Company officials stated that the deal addresses growing domestic demand for digital services. Sultan S. Alturki, Technology Procurement General Manager at stc group, discussed the operational goals of the project:
“The 5G expansion agreement with Ericsson will strengthen 5G connectivity across Saudi Arabia and enhance the experience for our customers. By expanding network capacity and deploying 600 MHz spectrum, we can extend reliable connectivity to more areas, elevate the customer experience and support Saudi Arabia’s growing digital needs.”
Sultan S. Alturki, Technology Procurement General Manager at stc group
Fadhel Isa, Head of Networks at Ericsson Saudi Arabia, noted the historical context of the working relationship between the two entities:
“Our longstanding partnership with stc has supported the evolution of mobile connectivity in Saudi Arabia across multiple network generations. The latest 5G expansion agreement builds on that foundation, combining additional 5G capacity with 600 MHz spectrum to extend connectivity across more areas of the Kingdom.”
Fadhel Isa, Head of Networks at Ericsson Saudi Arabia
Project Timeline and Network Roadmap
Ericsson has served as a primary radio access network vendor for stc group across mobile network generations spanning 2G to 5G. Site deployment under this agreement begins in 2026 and will continue over several years across Ericsson’s geographic operating zones in the Kingdom, driving national digital economy targets.
