In October 2019, Zain Saudi Arabia launched its 5G rollout. Huawei ensured there were no half measures taken, playing a pivotal role in the infrastructure
being rolled out to 27 cities through 2,600 towers by the end of the year, the largest 5G network in the Middle East, Africa, Europe and third largest globally
utilising 2,600 towers by the end of 2019. The phased rollout continues to re-
ceive close support from Huawei, with the bilateral work by both companies set
to further develop 5G and bring more digital services to this important market.
Huawei’s close relationship with Zain and knowledge of the company’s desire
to expand its innovations to its other markets led to the attainment of another
regional 5G first as Zain Group announced its operations in Kuwait and Saudi
Arabia successfully launched the first 5G roaming service across the MENA
region. Download speeds reach as high as 500 Mbps for both outbound and
inbound roaming.
Zain Kuwait and Zain Saudi Arabia between them count over 550 4G and 3G
roaming agreements in over 215 countries, with the latest breakthrough 5G
roaming agreement opening countless opportunities to further enhance the
mobile experience for Zain customers as they travel the world, and as 5G be-
comes more widespread with the advent of more 5G devices.
The roaming agreement between the two Zain op-
erations sets the foundation for further 5G roaming
agreements within the Zain Group and beyond. Zain’s
pioneering approach to 5G means as soon as compat-
ible devices begin to ship in commercial numbers the
mobile operator’s networks will be ready and capable
to provide 5G services to customers immediately.
Zain prides itself with aligning with leading technol-
ogy players that can help it achieve its strategic objec-
tives while understanding the company’s pioneering
culture. In Huawei, Zain has found such a partner,
and together the two companies continue to advance
the telecommunications experience for users across
the region, and stand as an example of what can be
achieved when vision meets resolve.
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