KACST Successfully Builds 5G Open RAN Network for Secure Communications

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has announced the successful development of a 5G communications network utilizing Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network) technology, designed to provide secure connectivity in remote, industrial, and sensitive locations. The announcement, made in Riyadh on February 11, 2025, marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to advance next-generation telecommunications and aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives for technological innovation and economic diversification.

Context and Background

Open RAN technology represents a paradigm shift in mobile network architecture, enabling interoperability between hardware and software from multiple vendors and reducing dependency on proprietary systems. KACST’s achievement is part of a broader initiative driven by the National Laboratory at KACST, in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST). These collaborations aim to accelerate technological advancement, localize future communication technologies, and foster a sustainable digital economy in Saudi Arabia.

Key Details

The newly built network was developed entirely by national expertise and allows users to control its features and sensitive applications with high speed and responsiveness tailored to their needs. It has been integrated with satellite systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enable direct, real-time voice and video communications. This integration enhances connectivity in areas where traditional infrastructure is impractical. Additionally, the project includes training and qualifying more than 25 specialists in Open RAN technologies, bolstering local human capital.

Implications and Impact

By 2030, an estimated 45 million users are expected to benefit from the Open RAN network, contributing to the growth of the future communications technology market in the Kingdom and generating numerous job opportunities. The adoption of Open RAN is also projected to reduce capital costs for network construction by approximately 50% and lower operational costs by around 35%. Furthermore, it supports global diversification of supply chains for communication infrastructure and is expected to increase factory productivity by 25% and boost the retail sector by nearly 15%.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This achievement directly supports Saudi Vision 2030’s goals to increase local content in non-oil sectors, diversify the national economy, and establish an inclusive digital economy. By accelerating technological readiness in next-generation communications, KACST’s work lays the foundation for a robust knowledge-based economy, positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in telecommunications innovation and contributing to long-term sustainable development.

20 Questions

Q1. What is Open RAN technology?

A1. Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network) is a technology that allows interoperability between network components from different vendors, promoting flexibility and reducing costs in mobile network deployments.

Q2. Who led the development of the 5G network using Open RAN in Saudi Arabia?

A2. King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) led the development in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission.

Q3. What is the primary purpose of this new network?

A3. The network provides secure communications in remote, industrial, and sensitive locations, ensuring high-speed connectivity where traditional infrastructure is limited or unavailable.

Q4. What role do unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) play in this network?

A4. UAVs are integrated with the network to facilitate direct, real-time voice and video communications, extending connectivity to areas without ground infrastructure.

Q5. How many specialists have been trained in Open RAN technologies under this initiative?

A5. More than 25 specialists have been trained and qualified in Open RAN technologies as part of KACST’s efforts to build national capabilities.

Q6. What is the expected number of users to benefit from the Open RAN network by 2030?

A6. An estimated 45 million users are expected to benefit from the network by 2030, contributing to market growth and job creation.

Q7. How much capital cost reduction is projected from adopting Open RAN?

A7. Open RAN technology is projected to reduce capital costs for network construction by approximately 50% compared to traditional approaches.

Q8. What percentage reduction in operational costs is expected?

A8. Operational costs are expected to decrease by around 35% through the adoption of Open RAN technology.

Q9. How does this initiative support Saudi Vision 2030?

A9. It aligns with Vision 2030 by increasing local content in non-oil sectors, diversifying the economy, and fostering an inclusive digital economy through technological innovation.

Q10. Which Saudi ministry and commission collaborated with KACST?

A10. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) partnered with KACST on this project.

Q11. What is the National Laboratory at KACST?

A11. The National Laboratory is a KACST facility that leads research and development in advanced technologies, including next-generation communications, in support of national priorities.

Q12. How does Open RAN diversify supply chains?

A12. Open RAN allows network operators to source components from multiple vendors, reducing dependency on single suppliers and enhancing supply chain resilience globally.

Q13. What impact is expected on factory productivity?

A13. The adoption of Open RAN is expected to increase factory productivity by 25% due to improved connectivity and operational efficiency.

Q14. How will the retail sector benefit from this technology?

A14. The retail sector is forecasted to boost by nearly 15% as enhanced network capabilities enable new digital services and improved customer experiences.

Q15. In which locations is the network designed to operate?

A15. The network is designed for remote, industrial, and sensitive locations where secure and reliable communications are critical.

Q16. What is the significance of integrating satellite systems with the network?

A16. Satellite integration ensures seamless connectivity in areas beyond terrestrial coverage, enabling real-time communications in remote regions.

Q17. Who developed the network’s technology?

A17. The network was built and developed entirely by national expertise from Saudi Arabia, showcasing local engineering capabilities.

Q18. What are the key benefits for users of the Open RAN network?

A18. Users benefit from high speed, responsiveness, and control over sensitive applications, tailored to their specific communication needs.

Q19. How does this achievement support the launch of new startups?

A19. By accelerating technological readiness, the initiative creates an ecosystem that fosters innovation and supports the emergence of startups in the communications sector.

Q20. What job opportunities are expected from the Open RAN network?

A20. The growth of the communications technology market is projected to create numerous job opportunities, particularly in network deployment, maintenance, and innovation roles.

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