Nokia has announced a new research and development center in Riyadh focused on AI-powered network automation and orchestration, part of a broader push to help Saudi telecom operators build toward next-generation 6G services while making the most of their existing 5G investments.
The new center will work on technologies including service management and orchestration (SMO), self-organizing networks (SON), Autopilot and rApps. It is designed to support customers inside the Kingdom and globally, and to explore AI-native 6G technologies that are expected to shape the next phase of connectivity.
In parallel, زين السعودية and Nokia signed a memorandum of understanding to develop 5G and 5G-Advanced solutions using Cloud RAN and AI RAN technologies. The two companies also completed a live 5G-Advanced Cloud RAN trial in Saudi Arabia, described as the first of its kind in the Kingdom.
On the path toward 6G, a Saudi trial of the 7 GHz band was completed by CST, stc and Nokia. The trial covered the 7.125 to 8.4 GHz range, which is seen as one of the key candidate bands for future 6G technologies.
Why it matters
For residents and businesses across الرياض, جدة and beyond, these steps point to faster, more reliable networks in the coming years. AI-native network technology aims to make mobile services more efficient and responsive, while early 6G research positions the Kingdom among the countries preparing for the next wave of connectivity as part of its wider digital transformation goals.
Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.
Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:
- Instagram - @saudiliving
- X - @saudiliving
- Facebook - @saudiliving
- YouTube - @saudiliving
Up Next
Saudi GDP Falls 4.8% in Q2 2026 on Weaker Oil
Preliminary estimates show Saudi real GDP shrank 4.8% year-on-year in Q2 2026 as oil activity fell, while non-oil sectors kept growing.
Sep 5,2026
Taif Racing Week 7: Prizes Top SAR 1.7 Million
King Khalid Racecourse in Taif hosts week seven of the 2026 season on 4-5 September with 22 races and prize money exceeding SAR 1.7 million.
Sep 5,2026
Saudi Arabia to Field 144 Athletes at 2026 Asian Games
Saudi Arabia will send 144 athletes across 19 national teams to the 20th Asian Games in Aichi–Nagoya, Japan, from 19 September to 4 October 2026.
Sep 5,2026
Saudi Inflation Holds at 1.8% in July 2026
Annual inflation in Saudi Arabia reached 1.8% in July 2026, driven mainly by higher housing and utility costs, with prices rising 0.2% month-on-month.
Sep 5,2026Related Stories
Don't Miss Similar Listings
Be the first to know when new stories on this topic are published.
