Zain KSA has achieved a record speed of 1.9 Gbps during a successful trial of the 5G indoor solution known as “AirScale Radio System” (ASiR), at its headquarters in Jeddah. The ASiR solution can support a mixed network of 4G and 5G over the same platform, delivering ultra-fast speeds and broad coverage, and countering high penetration coverage losses within buildings, across multiple floors and in both open office space and closed up offices and meeting rooms where coverage rates are often significantly reduced due to the depth of the building design or the distance from the tower. Utilizing ASiR, Zain KSA provides an enhanced indoor solution addressing requirements such as low cost of ownership, compact design and comprehensive indoor coverage offering users a consistent 5G experience.

Telecom Operators
Ooredoo Oman announces resignation of CEO Ian Dench
Ooredoo announced that Ooredoo Oman has accepted Mr. Ian Dench’s resignation from his post as Chief Executive Officer, effective 30th June 2021. The appointment of the new Ooredoo Oman CEO will be announced in due course.
Tata Communications remains as ‘Leader’ for global network services
For eight consecutive years, Tata Communications, a global digital ecosystem enabler, has been recognized as a Leader in the March 2021 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Network Services, Global.
Ooredoo Qatar, Mastercard, QNB release new contactless payment solutions
Ooredoo Qatar, Mastercard, and Qatar National Bank (QNB) announced the launch of the Ooredoo Money Virtual Prepaid Card and Contactless Tap & Go Mastercard cards in Qatar.
Orange creates council to support responsible usage of data and AI
Chaired by Stéphane Richard, Orange’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, the role of the Data and AI Ethics Council is to support the company’s implementation of ethical principles governing the use of data and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
stc Kuwait and Virgin Mobile MEA get MVNO license from CITRA
Kuwait Telecommunications Company – stc and Virgin Mobile Middle East and Africa (VMMEA) received the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority’s (CITRA) approval for the first-of-its-kind mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) license to launch Virgin Mobile Kuwait (Connect Arabia WLL).
Ciena’s GeoMesh Extreme upgrades Aqua Comms’ major subsea networks
Aqua Comms, an Ireland-based communications provider, has upgraded its two Trans-Atlantic submarine cable routes with Ciena’s cutting-edge GeoMesh Extreme submarine network solution to meet digital connectivity demands across the US, Ireland, Denmark, and the UK.
Zain Drone to conduct aerial surveys for Kuwait's Public Authority of industry
Zain Group has announced that its subsidiary Zain Drone has been awarded a contract to perform a precise data acquisition assignment for Kuwait’s Public Authority of Industry. The project will entail conducting an aerial topographical survey using Zain Drone state-of-the-art technology.
Sparkle to offer hands-on cybersecurity training for businesses
Sparkle, the first international service provider in Italy and among the top ten global operators, announces the launch of a managed Cyber Security Training Platform providing engaging courses aimed at building cybersecurity skills through live attacks simulation.
Etisalat ties up with Etihad Airways to support UAE’s SMBs with digital solutions
Etisalat and Etihad Airways will provide the best-in-class mobile and digital solutions for the evolving business requirements of the small and medium business (SMB) and startup community, Etisalat has announced.