stc Group has become the first operator in the MENA region to support the Bridge Alliance API Exchange (BAEx), marking a significant milestone in their decade-long partnership. The collaboration, formalized during the LEAP global technology conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focuses on enhancing the Internet of Things (IoT) and expanding the integration of telecom Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).
The agreement, set to take effect in April 2025, will involve stc Group’s operations in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait. This strategic partnership will streamline access to telecom APIs, reducing complexity for both stc Group and its enterprise customers. stc will also become the first MENA operator to join the BAEx platform, which was launched in 2024 by Bridge Alliance, alongside 13 other global operators.
A key aspect of the collaboration will be strengthening IoT offerings, including projects such as connected car technology, which will enable smart features and remote vehicle operations in the region. Dr. Ong Geok Chwee, CEO of Bridge Alliance, highlighted the growth of their partnership since 2014 and expressed excitement about expanding into the growing IoT and telco API sectors.
BAEx, powered by Singtel’s Paragon orchestration platform, offers a unified integration and contract, simplifying bilateral negotiations between operators. The platform also supports GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative, aiming to provide universal access to operator networks for developers. BAEx’s recent Number Verification API certification by GSMA in January 2025 further solidifies its capabilities.
