In an exclusive interview with Telecom Review, Danial Mausoof, VP Technology and Solutions at Nokia MEA, explored MEA’s evolving mobile network landscape. From the projected growth of 5G to the transformative power of network APIs and AI-driven solutions, Mausoof highlighted how Nokia is driving innovation and meeting the dynamic needs of telecom operators and industry verticals across the Middle East and Africa.
Nokia has projected massive 5G growth in the MEA region. How will this impact the technology deployment within the region?
5G has experienced significant growth in this part of the world. In the UAE, operators are leading in terms of both performance and coverage and we see this adoption continuing as a result of Fixed Wireless Access.
Moving forward, our focus on 5G will encompass monetizing various elements of the network, with Fixed Wireless Access being just one aspect. We also foresee substantial growth, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, immersive video, spatial computing, and other emerging technologies, which will similarly shape the region.
Nokia remains committed to investing in the region, not only through our portfolio but also through strengthening the necessary teams so that they can sufficiently deploy and support 5G infrastructure across the UAE and the broader region.
Also Read: Nokia and stc Set 1 Tbps Data Center Connectivity Benchmark
Nokia has been advocating for network APIs. How will this integration transform a telecom operator’s business operations, particularly in the region?
Network APIs represent the next frontier for operators in terms of network monetization, providing exciting opportunities for new revenue streams. By leveraging these APIs, operators can explore verticals with enterprise businesses to discover how they can utilize Nokia’s Digital Monetization solution, also known as Network as Code. This approach enables the development of innovative strategies that can be used to monetize networks collaboratively as an industry, fostering greater collaboration and maximizing the value of connected ecosystems.
What role will AI play in mobile networks moving forward? Can you give examples of AI-based solutions that Nokia is providing?
The use of AI and machine learning (ML) is not new to Nokia; we have been utilizing anomaly detection for both structured and unstructured data for some time. As AI has advanced over the past few years, we’ve expanded its application across various AI models. For example, we have integrated AI with radio networks to optimize key parameters, enhancing energy efficiency by shutting down cells based on traffic patterns, which can deliver up to 15-20% energy savings for operators—a critical factor in sustainable network management.
Additionally, AI plays a crucial role in managing queries through Nokia’s AI Digital Assistant, providing predictive behavior analytics and streamlining network operations. Our MantaRay SON solution leverages AI to orchestrate network behavior, offering cognitive management of network performance through predictive analytics and actionable insights. A notable example demonstrating this is our success in Saudi Arabia during Hajj, where we handled 10,000 actions per hour—an achievement made possible through cognitive, AI-driven orchestration far beyond what is humanly achievable.
How will Nokia MEA’s mobile network solutions cater to the demands of different industry verticals moving forward?
Nokia continues to be a global leader in the telecommunications industry, excelling both in performance and providing comprehensive solutions to MNOs. Our focus extends to orchestration, software, and transport, including microwave solutions. Additionally, we are dedicated to serving our non-CSP customers, specifically those within the enterprise verticals.
We believe we have the right portfolio to meet the unique needs of these verticals through a consultative selling approach. By offering customized, bespoke solutions that cater to diverse use cases, we ensure the right elements for connectivity, while delivering substantial end-user benefits in terms of cost, quality, and performance.
We actively collaborate not only with MNOs but also directly with enterprises in enabling these use cases across multiple verticals; primarily utilities, public safety, transport, and oil and gas. We are proud to be partners with some of the largest customers in the region and will continue to strengthen these relationships as part of our strategy for 2025 and 2026.
Exclusive: Nokia and the Network: Catering to Unique Needs and Optimizing Key Resources
Also Read: Nokia Achieves 7,000-Patent Milestone, Powering the 5G Revolution
Also Read: Nokia and Ooredoo Oman Forge High-Capacity Network Alliance
