That technology is edge computing: The ability to optimise and extend the capability of cloud computing by bringing computation and data storage closer to the devices where it’s being gathered. It’s a fairly amorphous concept that has been around since the 1990s, but thanks to the pandemic, it has given rise to edge computing’s dark horse: the remote worker.

Du will create DEWA’s new mobile core edge infrastructure using a Network Function Virtualization (NFV) infrastructure solution, independently separating and scaling the control and user planes. DEWA’s InfraX will provide smooth and innovative services to DEWA and its subsidiaries thanks to du’s 5G SA solution. Both sides have agreed to develop new use cases for mobile edge computing to improve operations.

The Saudi Vision 2030 mentions under the section: “A developed digital infrastructure” that a sophisticated digital infrastructure is integral to today’s advanced industrial activities. It attracts investors and enhances the fundamental competitiveness of the Saudi economy.

The edge—which is different for each industry and business function—enables new services and better performance by placing applications as close as possible to the sources and users of data,” said Mohammed Abukhater.

Edge computing is defined loosely as a model that brings computational, data storage and connectivity resources closer to the locations where they’re needed, saving bandwidth and accelerating response times. Edge technologies power millions of IoT applications in industrial, retail, healthcare and smart cities environments, and, prior to 2020, analysts expected an additional bump from virtual reality and 5G in the coming years.