Etihad Salam Telecom Company, a leading telecommunications provider in Saudi Arabia, and center3, a wholly owned subsidiary of the stc Group, have deepened their collaboration to advance digital infrastructure and connectivity. This partnership, formalized through a bilateral agreement at Capacity Middle East 2025, aims to enhance network resilience, improve connectivity, and offer scalable solutions that align with the digital economy strategy outlined by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT).
With the ICT sector in Saudi Arabia projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 82.51 billion by 2030, the partnership is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s digital transformation. By combining Etihad Salam Telecom’s Last Mile and internet access services with center3’s advanced data center and internet exchange capabilities, the collaboration will drive innovation in cloud data management, internet connectivity, and other critical digital infrastructure areas.
Amjad Arab, Chief Wholesale and Partnerships Officer at Etihad Salam Telecom, expressed, “Our mission is to provide robust, innovative solutions that support the rapid expansion of digital content and seamless technology experiences. We are excited to offer enriched connectivity services, bringing content closer to end-users and empowering businesses to thrive in a digital-first world.”
The partnership will focus on enhancing three key areas: utilizing both companies’ connectivity services to expand network reach and reliability, leveraging center3’s carrier-neutral data centers to enhance Etihad Salam Telecom’s enterprise solutions, and integrating Etihad Salam’s vast network with center3’s internet exchanges to enrich the regional digital ecosystem with diverse content providers.
Mabs Khan, Chief Commercial Officer of center3, added, “This collaboration with Etihad Salam Telecom represents a significant step forward in our mission to build a more interconnected and resilient digital infrastructure for MENA. By utilizing each other’s services and infrastructure, we’re positioned to deliver seamless, carrier-neutral solutions that drive growth and innovation in the region.”
The collaboration will see Etihad Salam Telecom integrate its advanced network infrastructure, including data centers and international cable systems, with center3’s state-of-the-art data centers and internet exchanges, transforming connectivity solutions and furthering the digital ecosystem across the region.
