Nokia has officially inaugurated its Innovation Center in Salé, Morocco, an event officiated by Ghita Mezzour, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform. Designed as a regional hub for the EMEA region, the Nokia Innovation Center (NIC) is equipped with advanced technologies from Nokia’s extensive Network Infrastructure portfolio, which includes fixed networks, IP, and optical networks.
The NIC aims to contribute significantly to Digital Morocco 2030 by advancing digital skills, supporting 5G readiness, and fostering innovation throughout the EMEA region. As the first of its kind in the MEA region, the center features a comprehensive array of technologies, including IP, optical transport, and fiber solutions, all housed within a state-of-the-art data center. This facility supports various use cases, ranging from 5G mobile backhaul to data center fabric and security, positioning itself as a focal point for innovation in critical network technologies, and enabling the testing, verification, deployment, and training of advanced solutions across the EMEA region.
Beyond technological advancements, the NIC reinforces Nokia’s role within Morocco’s ICT ecosystem by providing practical training to engineering schools and universities. This collaborative platform aims to nurture local engineering talent through certification programs such as Service Routing Architect (SRA) and Network Routing Specialist (NRS II), while also offering Gen-AI integration tools using natural language, thus contributing to the upskilling and reskilling of young Moroccan talent in alignment with Morocco’s 2030 digital vision.
The inauguration also served as an opportunity to showcase state-of-the-art solutions that demonstrate Nokia’s capabilities and commitment to supporting Morocco’s ambitions in hosting major football events.
Minister Ghita Mezzour remarked, “The opening of Nokia’s Innovation Center in Morocco is a testament to our country’s ability to attract leading global technology companies and foster innovation. This center will enhance our position as a regional hub for digital services across EMEA and play a crucial role in developing local talent. By aligning with Digital Morocco 2030, the center contributes to our efforts in advancing STEM education, equipping our youth with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy, and supporting our nation’s 5G readiness and technological future.”
Pierre Chaume, Vice President of North, West, and Central Africa for Network Infrastructure at Nokia, added, “We are proud to establish this Innovation Center in Morocco, which will serve our customers and partners in the EMEA region while contributing to the development of local talent and the broader digital ecosystem, in line with Digital Morocco 2030. This center underscores our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the growth of critical networks that drive digital transformation across industries.”
