Maxis, Nokia, Tawal, and Zain KSA are advancing next-generation connectivity through strategic collaborations focused on enhancing cloud, AI, and 5G technologies across Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. From Maxis and Nokia’s partnership on data center networking to Nokia and Tawal’s 5G mmWave active sharing trial, and Zain KSA’s Cloud RAN breakthrough with Nokia, these initiatives are pivotal in revolutionizing connectivity in the region.
1. Maxis and Nokia Expand Collaboration for Advanced Data Center Networking
Maxis has expanded its collaboration with Nokia to deliver cutting-edge data center networking solutions to enterprises, hyperscalers, and over-the-top (OTT) players in Malaysia. This partnership will combine Maxis’ robust connectivity with Nokia’s AI-powered Data Centre Fabric, enhancing automation, resilience, and efficiency for data center operations. Announced at the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, the collaboration aims to support AI-driven applications and low-latency digital infrastructure.
Prateek Pashine, Maxis Chief Enterprise Business Officer, highlighted the partnership’s role in adapting to the rapid growth of AI and cloud technologies, providing next-generation networking solutions for local businesses. Nokia will provide Maxis with its SR Linux network operating system and Event-Driven Automation (EDA), advancing Maxis’ data center, AI, and cloud connectivity leadership.
2. Nokia and Tawal Complete World’s First 5G SA mmWave Active Sharing Trial
Nokia and Tawal, alongside Stc and Zain, have completed the world’s first 5G standalone (SA) mmWave spectrum-sharing trial in Riyadh. The trial utilized 800 MHz bandwidth in the 26 GHz band and focused on enabling Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and enterprises to efficiently share advanced network infrastructure for superior performance at a lower cost. This breakthrough supports the growing demand for ultra-high-speed mobile connectivity, particularly for major events like Expo 2030.
The trial used Nokia’s AirScale mmWave products combined with Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology, enabling multiple operators to share the same active radio network infrastructure. This collaboration sets a new benchmark for indoor and outdoor connectivity, particularly in high-demand venues like malls, airports, and exhibition centers.
3. Nokia and Zain KSA Achieve 1.5 Gbps Peak Throughput with Live Cloud RAN Trial
Nokia and Zain KSA have successfully completed Saudi Arabia’s first live Cloud RAN site trial, achieving peak download speeds of 1.5 Gbps connected to Zain KSA’s 5G core network. The trial, conducted from December 2024 to January 2025, demonstrates the power of cloud-native architectures in improving efficiency, reducing costs, and accelerating time to market for telecom providers.
The Cloud RAN trial offers a flexible platform that can integrate multi-vendor solutions and support emerging use cases for enterprise and private-wireless applications. Zain KSA’s Chief Technology Officer noted that the increased network agility from Cloud RAN will allow the company to better meet both enterprise and consumer demands while fostering Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation.
The success of this trial lays the groundwork for future innovations, including AI-RAN, Open RAN, and 6G technologies. The collaboration with Zain KSA highlights how cloudification can optimize resources and pave the way for new growth opportunities across the Kingdom’s telecom sector.
These advancements reflect the commitment of Maxis, Nokia, Tawal, and Zain KSA to advancing next-generation connectivity, making significant strides in AI, cloud, and 5G innovations, and positioning the region as a leader in global telecom development.
