WiMAX Network Launched in Saudi Arabia

Motorola and Saudi Arabia's Etihad Atheeb Telecom Company (GO) have announced the launch of a new nationwide WiMAX 802.16e network in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

"Atheeb's GO service is designed to offer businesses and consumers an opportunity to experience a nationwide 4G broadband network that offers higher speeds, lower cost and greater connectivity," said Dr. Ahmed Abbas Sindi, CEO, Etihad Atheeb Telecom company - (GO).

Deployment of the network started in 2008, and includes Motorola's WAP 800 access point, featuring smart antenna technology (beamforming), including end-to-end delivery of network planning, installation, optimization and support services.

Etihad Atheeb Telecommunication is a joint venture between Bahrain's Batelco and the local Atheeb Trading Group. The company holds a fixed telecoms provider license, and was floated on the local stock market in Jan 2009. The consortium plans to invest US$1 billion by 2014.

Posted to the site on 7th June 2009