stc Group, a Saudi Arabia-based digital and telco leader, and Ooredoo Oman, a regional telecommunications provider, have announced a strategic collaboration to establish an international terrestrial fiber optic network corridor between Saudi Arabia and Oman, marking a significant move to enhance the Middle East’s digital infrastructure.
The Saudi Omani Network Infrastructure Corridor (SONIC) project aims to establish an integrated terrestrial fiber network with two redundant paths that connect submarine cable landing stations and data centers across Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Saudi Arabia and Oman’s unique geographic positioning will enable enhanced connectivity and digital infrastructure in the region through a highly reliable and agile network.
The first phase is expected to be completed within 12 months, with the entire project concluding within 24 months. The initial phase will support ongoing subsea projects and enhance international subsea routes between Asia and Europe, with both operators committed to delivering transitional solutions to ensure service continuity.
Designed to complement existing and future subsea projects, the SONIC project will enhance international routes between Asia and Europe. This strategic initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and is supported by the Kingdom’s government under the Shareek program.
stc Group and Ooredoo Oman’s collaboration is poised to deliver regional growth opportunities, offering hyperscalers and telecom operators seamless and scalable digital infrastructure.
Mohammed Alabbadi, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer at stc Group, highlighted, “In cooperation with Shareek Program, this partnership with Ooredoo Oman reaffirms our commitment within stc Group as a digital enabler to harnessing all capabilities and expanding digital infrastructure in the MENA region. The SONIC project will be one of the key components in meeting the growing demand for regional and international connectivity through secure, high-capacity, and efficient networks.”
Noting the impact of the SONIC project, Bassam Yousef Al Ibrahim, CEO of Ooredoo Oman, stated, “The SONIC project highlights Ooredoo’s leadership in shaping the future of telecommunications in Oman and the region. By connecting Ooredoo Oman’s infrastructure with stc Group, we are enabling seamless international data flow, attracting investment, and fostering innovation. This collaboration realizes a shared vision for progress and supports Oman Vision 2040 by driving economic growth and positioning the Sultanate as a key hub in the global digital ecosystem.”
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