Saudi Telecom Company (STC) and Huawei have jointly announced the successful trial of the first 5G innovative Massive MIMO network in MENA region. STC completed the testing of the latest 3.5GHz Massive MIMO technology, which is considered as a cornerstone technology enabling core 5G services. It uses a large number of antennas and beam forming to enhance spectrum multiplexing among multiple user equipment (UEs) to improve the end user experience.
The new 5G technologies aim at providing huge capacity, better spectral efficiency and lower latency. Widespread 5G connectivity will eliminate information islands, boost the prosperity of a digitalized sharing economy, and promote changes to existing production methods and lifestyles. Massive MIMO increases the cell capacity without the need for extra spectrum or additional new sites.
Nasser Al-Nasser, technology & operations SVP, said: “STC is committed to continuous innovation to provide the best network and services for our deserving customers in the modern digitalized society. This 5G partnership with Huawei is one step forward toward enabling the establishment of 5G networks and pioneering the launch of new 5G services in KSA. Continued cooperation between STC and Huawei will surely expand the commercial use of 5G and explore further innovations, paving the way to 5G commercial deployments.”
Edward Deng, president of Huawei Wireless Network, said: “I believe that continuous technology innovation and open collaborations is the key to a successful launch of 5G network and service. As strategic partners, Huawei will continue to cooperate with STC to make strategic investments in 5G technology research and industrialization to make sure STC maintains its pioneering position in the region.”

Source: Arab News