By Mikko Lavanti, Senior Vice President of Mobile Networks for MEA, Nokia
The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is on the cusp of a technological leap with the advent of 5G-Advanced, a transformative evolution of 5G technology. As an integral part of this evolution, Nokia is committed to delivering innovative solutions that enable operators and enterprises to capitalize on the unprecedented opportunities 5G-Advanced offers.
Driving Adoption with Game-Changing Use Cases
5G-Advanced is more than an upgrade; it is a leap forward in network capabilities, supporting use cases that will redefine connectivity in MEA. Enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) will cater to data-intensive applications like consumer and enterprise digital twins. At the same time, ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) will empower smart factories, autonomous systems, and mission-critical services.
Immersive augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) experiences will transform entertainment, education, and enterprise applications. Industry 4.0 automation will enable precision manufacturing and smarter supply chains. Furthermore, smart mobility, powered by network slicing, will support tailored solutions for enterprises and cities.
Nokia has a broad-based portfolio, including advanced AirScale Single-RAN (2G/3G/4G/5G), private wireless network solutions, and AI-powered automation platforms, which are tailored to empower these use cases. By integrating AI/ML capabilities and prioritizing energy efficiency, Nokia helps operators maximize performance, reduce costs, and unlock new revenue streams in the 5G-Advanced era.
Regional Success Stories in 2024
Across the MEA region, Nokia has played a pivotal role in advancing 5G networks. In the UAE, Nokia secured a landmark 5G-Advanced deal with du, showcasing Cloud RAN innovation to enhance network performance. In Saudi Arabia, Nokia’s regional headquarters were moved to Riyadh, solidifying our commitment to Vision 2030. The launch of our Open Innovation Lab in the UAE and the NextGen lab at our Global Partner Summit in Saudi Arabia underscores our dedication to fostering innovation in AI, Cloud RAN, private wireless networks, and Open RAN.
In Jordan, Nokia successfully launched and deployed nationwide 5G networks with Orange and Zain, replacing the incumbent and driving the country's digital transformation.
In Northwest Africa we are conducting technology trials and workshops with leading operators like Orange, Ooredoo, and Maroc Telecom. Additionally, using Nokia as the vendor of choice, the first 5G call was made in Telecom Egypt earlier this year, paving the way for 5G expansion in Egypt and the broader region. Tunisia’s launch is expected in early 2025.
In countries like South Africa and Kenya, 5G is addressing connectivity gaps through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). New 5G networks, such as those in Somalia, Kenya, and Ghana, demonstrate our ability to deliver high-quality connectivity in challenging environments. Moreover, our new Center of Excellence (CoE) in Nigeria highlights Nokia's commitment to advancing digital literacy and training in the region.
Nokia continues to be the leading provider of telecommunication solutions in the Southern African market, with a strong emphasis on helping our clients grow their businesses and deliver the best customer experiences in their respective operating markets. Beyond our partnerships with major telecommunications groups, Nokia successfully extended its reach into new markets, such as Namibia, Ghana, and new business models with leading towercos.
Catalyzing Economic Growth and Innovation
Connectivity is a cornerstone of modern economies. 5G-Advanced will amplify this by enabling economic growth, enhancing healthcare, improving education, and revolutionizing key industries like mining and agriculture. The telecom sector, contributing 2.5% to the global GDP, is a pillar of economic progress. Reliable connectivity supports mobile payments, distance learning, social networking, and e-health. By reducing inefficiencies, it directly enhances productivity and growth.
With URLLC and IoT-Reduced Capability (IoT-RedCap), remote patient monitoring, teleconsultation, and even remote surgery have become feasible. Nokia’s solutions can address the region's healthcare challenges by enabling real-time diagnostics and resource optimization.
Connectivity also bridges gaps in education through IoT-enabled learning, virtual classrooms, and digital libraries. Nokia’s collaborations with regional universities are training the next generation of innovators.
Low-latency connectivity improves safety, efficiency, and automation in mines, addressing a critical need in this booming sector. Smart farming solutions powered by 5G-Advanced enable real-time decision-making through sensors, drones, and AI-driven insights, boosting productivity and sustainability. Nokia’s energy-efficient technologies optimize energy production and distribution and can play a pivotal role in addressing Africa’s power challenges. By integrating AI with real-time data, operators can manage energy networks more effectively, ensuring stability and reducing waste.
Nokia’s commitment to bridging the digital divide is exemplified through the Nokia Rural Connect initiative, an innovative solution developed by our local teams. The solution addresses the connectivity challenges in rural and emerging markets by delivering a highly adaptable, energy-efficient, and sustainable approach to network deployment. Nokia Rural Connect leverages cutting-edge features such as off-grid, fully re-deployable components, and support for renewable energy configurations. Its versatility, with options like microwave or satellite connectivity, ensures it can adapt to diverse terrains and technical requirements.
Sustainability and Efficiency in Focus
Nokia prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability through its ReefShark-powered systems, which reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. These systems enable operators to meet growing connectivity demands while minimizing environmental impact. In Sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, our energy solutions have been embraced by operators like Orange MEA to address pressing energy challenges.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities in 2025
As 5G-Advanced adoption accelerates, Nokia’s focus in MEA will include:
- Private Wireless Networks: Expanding use cases in public safety, utilities, and transportation.
- Enterprise Growth: Expanding our business through adjacencies such as RAN-as-a-Service (RANaaS), neutral hosts, and others.
- Education and Skills Development: Strengthening collaborations with UN Women, universities, regulators, and customers to promote digital literacy and skill-building.
Looking ahead to 2025, as part of our growth strategy, Nokia aims to broaden its business portfolio into adjacent markets. This means that, in addition to our CSP business, we will focus on the enterprise and government sectors to supply private wireless solutions.
Nokia remains committed to shaping the future of connectivity in MEA, delivering innovative solutions that drive digital transformation and economic growth. By leveraging our cutting-edge 5G-Advanced portfolio, fostering regional partnerships, and addressing local challenges, Nokia can empower operators, enterprises, and communities across MEA to thrive in the digital age.
I would like to thank all our existing, new and future customers, team members and partners for a successful 2024. Looking forward to more in 2025.
More Nokia Exclusives:
Nokia: Unlocking the Middle East’s Full Potential as a Thriving Tech Hub
2024: A Year of Innovation in Nokia’s Cloud & Network Services
Nokia: Collaboratively Driving Technological Advancements
