The Saudi Arabian operator Zain KSA has selected Nokia Siemens Networks as its LTE network supplier and services vendor for Jeddah. The operator aims to address the growing demand for mobile broadband and smartphone data services by refarming its 1800 MHz GSM frequency band to offer 4G services. 

As part of the contract, Nokia Siemens Networks will also manage Zain KSA’s 4G network in Jeddah, in addition to the operator’s existing GSM and 3G networks in the city.

Nokia Siemens Networks will provide its Single RAN platform, based on Flexi Multiradio Base Station for 4G deployment and 3G network modernization. Optimized backhaul will be provided by FlexiPacket Microwave platform.

As part of the contract, company will upgrade and expand Zain’s legacy Home Location Register (HLR) to the latest, One NDS subscriber data management solution, supporting a total of 25 million subscribers’ mobile services, including 4G. 

Using its professional services capabilities, Nokia Siemens Networks will manage the operator’s 4G network, in addition to GSM and 3G networks in Jeddah, and will provide network implementation services.