Both parties entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during MWC, signed by STC Group CEO, Nasser Sulaiman Al-Nasser and KT chairman, Hwang Chang-gyu.
Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will work together to upgrade fixed-line and mobile networks in Saudi Arabia and collaborate on the launch of smart city, smart media and next-gen telecoms services.
Additionally, KT plans on exporting its ICT-based services such as its GiGA Wire high-speed internet service, GiGAeyes visual security service, 5G services, VR & AR, as well as its big data services to the Middle East.
KT was named as one of three Korean telcos to offer commercial 5G services in the country. KT along with LG Uplus and SKT all turned on fixed wireless access (FWA) networks based on 3GPP 5G standards at midnight on 1 December, offering the service to business users.
Chang-gyu said that in working with STC, KT would be able to secure new markets. STC is Saudi Arabia’s largest telecoms operator, which also provides wireless services in Bahrain, Kuwait and Turkey.
"Through the cooperation between the two companies, we will be able to create new markets, increase customer convenience and lead the Fourth Industrial Revolution and innovation," said Chang-gyu.
The news marks the initial roll out for STC and the company plans on completing the subsequent phases shortly after in order to spread the availability of 5G services on a wider scale. As a result, enabling the region to keep up with the latest technologies, improving digital services and boosting customer experience.
