In a significant move for Saudi Arabia’s technology sector, Aramco Digital and Intel have unveiled plans to establish the country’s first Open RAN (Radio Access Network) Development Center in Dhahran. The creation of this facility is poised to propel innovation and technological progress, contributing to the nation’s digital transformation goals.
This joint initiative is set to expedite the development and implementation of Open RAN technologies, which are crucial for building a flexible and responsive telecommunications infrastructure. This effort aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to foster economic diversification and technological progress.
Open RAN is a transformative approach to wireless network architecture that promotes flexibility, interoperability, and innovation. Aramco Digital’s in-depth knowledge of Saudi Arabia’s development objectives and the potential applications of Open RAN technology, combined with Intel’s pioneering expertise in computing and communication technologies, positions this collaboration as a powerful force for change.
Key Aspects of the Partnership:
1. Innovation Center: The Open RAN Development Center will act as a breeding ground for innovation, uniting the efforts of Aramco Digital and Intel’s engineers, researchers, and industry specialists.
2. Nurturing Local Expertise: The initiative will play a significant role in cultivating local talent by offering training and practical experience in the dynamic domain of Open RAN and Edge computing technologies.
3. Economic Boost: By fostering technology-led projects, the partnership will contribute to the local economy, resonating with the overarching goals of Vision 2030.
4. International Cooperation: The collaborative effort on Open RAN technology is expected to link Saudi Arabia with the broader international community involved in the advancement and deployment of Open RAN and Edge solutions.
CEO of Aramco Digital, Tareq Amin, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “This partnership underscores our dedication to spurring innovation in the Kingdom. The Open RAN Development Center is set to be a linchpin of digital progress, offering a venue for cooperation, skills enhancement, and the establishment of a dynamic tech ecosystem. Central to this effort is the creation of a robust pool of local talent for cutting-edge 5G and future 6G technologies.”
Intel’s collaboration with Aramco Digital merges their technological leadership in network, edge computing, and software with Aramco Digital’s regional expertise and industrial leadership. “Together, we aim to accelerate the deployment of edge-native Open RAN solutions in Saudi Arabia and beyond,” commented Sachin Katti, Intel senior vice president and general manager of the Network and Edge Group.
With operations expected to begin in 2024, the Open RAN Development Center marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s pursuit of a tech-oriented future.
About Aramco Digital:
Aramco Digital, a subsidiary of the global energy and chemicals titan Aramco, is committed to driving forward digital transformation and innovation across various industries.
About Intel:
Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) stands at the forefront of computing innovation. The company is renowned for designing and manufacturing foundational technologies that are integral to the world’s computing devices.