RIYADH -- Nokia Networks today signed a large contract with Zain KSA to modernize and expand the operator’s network in a program called RELOAD. With this contract, Nokia Networks and Zain achieve many key milestones in the Saudi market as well as the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, partnering to provide a superior mobile broadband experience.

To address the growing demand for high-speed and innovative data services in preparation for the Hajj pilgrimage in November, Nokia Networks will deploy not only its compact Single RAN Advanced to refarm part of Zain KSA’s 2G and 3G frequencies, but also its innovative Flexi Zone small cells for ultra-fast 4G, its LTE Advanced services, and NetAct for monitoring, managing and optimizing Zain KSA’s 2G, 3G and 4G networks. Furthermore, Nokia’s new energy-saving Flexi Compact Base Stations will be installed to reduce operating costs.

Nokia Networks will also deploy its Liquid Applications, an industry-first distributed cloud solution, which is enabled by its Radio Applications Cloud Server (RACS). This will provide Zain KSA with enhanced 4G throughput and backhauling savings, and will put it into a postion to deliver customized applications such as augmented reality and location-based services due to its exposure to real-time network data.

Nokia Networks will also deploy its indoor building solution along with its advanced 4G Small Cells to enhance mobile broadband coverage for Zain KSA’s subscribers inside offices, malls, hotels and residential buildings.

In another MEA-first, Nokia Networks will refarm the existing 2100 MHz spectrums, in addition to 1800 MHz band, to enable Zain KSA to expand its LTE services offering. Since spectrum is a limited resource, refarming will provide huge cost benefits for Zain when launching LTE services. Nokia Networks will also provide carrier aggregation capabilites, combining both the existing spectrum bands of 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz to increase the network capacity, speed and coverage for LTE services. This carrier aggregation of FDD-LTE spectrum bands is also another first for MEA region.

In addition, Nokia Networks will provide its Global Services including Network Planning and Optimization, Network Implementation and System Integration, competence development as well as hardware and software care to ensure smooth operations and high network quality.

Nokia Corp. (NYSE: NOK)