Saudi Arabian operator Zain KSA has selected Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) as its LTE (4G) mobile broadband infrastructure and services vendor for Jeddah.

The operator aims to address the growing demand for mobile broadband and smartphone data services by refarming its 1800 MHz GSM frequency band to offer 4G services. As part of the contract, NSNetworks will also manage Zain KSA’s 4G network in Jeddah, in addition to the operator’s existing GSM and 3G networks in the city.

As per the conditions of the contract, NSN will provide its Single RAN platform, based on the Flexi Multiradio Base Station for 4G deployment and 3G network modernisation. Optimised backhaul will be provided by FlexiPacket Microwave platform.

Also, NSN will upgrade and expand Zain’s legacy Home Location Register to the One NDS subscriber data management solution, supporting a total of 25 million subscribers’ mobile services, including 4G.