TAWAL and Rakuten Symphony Launch Saudi Arabia’s First Multi-Operator Shared Indoor Network Powered by Cloud RAN

The milestone advances shared digital infrastructure in Saudi Arabia through a scalable, AI-powered Cloud RAN neutral host platform.

RIYADH, RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, September 14, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- TAWAL and Rakuten Symphony have launched Saudi Arabia’s first multi-operator shared indoor network powered by Cloud RAN technology, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of shared digital infrastructure and next-generation indoor connectivity in the Kingdom.

The network has been deployed within an In-Building Solutions (IBS) environment at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Jeddah. The project was unveiled during LEAP 2026 and introduces a Neutral Host model that enables multiple telecom operators to use a unified in-building infrastructure while retaining full operational independence over their respective networks.

As part of the deployment, the platform was successfully integrated with the core network of a telecom service provider, followed by the successful completion of the first voice call over 5G NR and VoLTE. The milestone demonstrates the platform’s readiness to support live multi-operator telecommunications services within an indoor coverage environment.

The deployment introduces a more flexible and efficient approach to indoor network infrastructure by enabling operators to share a common platform rather than deploy separate infrastructure. The model is designed to improve asset utilization, increase deployment flexibility and support more efficient expansion of indoor connectivity.

Powered by Rakuten Symphony’s AI-enabled, cloud-native Open RAN technology, the network provides a flexible and scalable architecture that allows operators to leverage shared infrastructure more efficiently while helping reduce capital and operating costs.

The platform has also been designed to support future 5G Standalone (5G SA) networks, edge computing capabilities and AI-powered applications, providing a technology foundation that can evolve alongside the Kingdom’s growing digital ecosystem.

Mohammed Alhakbani, Chief Executive Officer of TAWAL, said: “The launch of this project represents a significant step forward in advancing shared digital infrastructure solutions in the Kingdom and reinforces TAWAL’s role in enabling telecom operators to expand with greater efficiency and flexibility. Through advanced solutions that address the requirements of today’s networks, we are also ensuring readiness for emerging technologies and evolving regulations governing indoor coverage solutions.”

He added: “We are proud to launch an integrated Neutral Host platform in the Kingdom, designed to enable shared connectivity for multiple operators. This reflects our commitment to contributing to the development of advanced, scalable digital infrastructure that supports the growth of the digital economy and strengthens the Kingdom’s readiness for future technologies.”

Sharad Sriwastawa, President of Rakuten Symphony, said: “This milestone demonstrates the power of AI-driven cloud-native Open RAN to transform how networks are built and shared. By enabling multiple operators to run on a single intelligent infrastructure platform, we are creating a blueprint for future indoor connectivity that reduces infrastructure costs, improves sustainability and provides a foundation for AI-powered digital services.”

TAWAL, together with Rakuten Symphony and its project partners, will continue supporting the expansion of the Neutral Host model and the development of more efficient multi-operator indoor coverage solutions.

The project forms part of TAWAL’s broader efforts to advance Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure ecosystem through integrated telecommunications infrastructure, site-sharing and in-building solutions. These capabilities support the accelerated deployment of advanced connectivity technologies and contribute to the Kingdom’s digital transformation ambitions under Saudi Vision 2030.

About TAWAL

TAWAL is a leading digital infrastructure provider with a portfolio of more than 30,000 telecom towers across Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia and Pakistan.

The company supports the digital transformation of the markets in which it operates by expanding digital infrastructure across cities and rural areas and deploying advanced connectivity solutions, including smart poles, 5G- and IoT-ready infrastructure, In-Building Solutions (IBS), site-sharing solutions and other tailored ICT infrastructure.

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