Riyadh – Mubasher: Saudi Arabia’s Etihad Etisalat (Mobily) has signed an agreement with Ericsson to launch the first world programme for the internet of things (IoT) in Saudi Arabia.

The main purpose of the programme to boost interactions between university students and teaching staff and to promote IoT domestically and globally. 

This joint venture (JV) is part of Mobily’s expansion plans to be in line with the most up-to-date international telecommunication techniques and services.

The deal was signed at the 2018 Mobile World Congress which was held in Spain.

Earlier in March, Mobily signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Nokia Co to begin fifth generation (5G) tests in Saudi Arabia.

The MoU with Nokia will provide technologies such as: 4.5G LET, and 4.9G, 5G, transport modernisation for both optic and IP as well as fixed wireless access technologies including FastMile and wireless PON.

Mobily last reported that its net losses had increased to SAR 181.7 million during the fourth quarter of 2017, from SAR 70.2 million in Q4-16, while losses jumped to SAR 708.9 million for the full year of 2017, from SAR 213.6 million in 2016.