Vodafone in Oman’s new 5G network to be powered by Ericsson

Vodafone in Oman signed an agreement with Ericsson to deploy, operate and maintain a new 4G and 5G core and radio access (RAN) greenfield network.

Ericsson will provide a complete core network solution, as well as an end-to-end transport network solution, based on Ericsson Cloud Core, NFVI, and Cloud VoLTE. Other Ericsson Radio System products and solutions, including as the antenna-integrated radio and Ericsson Spectrum Sharing, are part of the greenfield network. To support 5G from network launch, the end-to-end solution range will deliver a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and adaptable layered architecture design. Ericsson Voice over LTE (VoLTE) services will be available to Vodafone customers.

In addition, a five-year managed services deal was struck. This will result in data-driven network and IT operations and optimization powered by AI, allowing Vodafone to improve customer experience, increase efficiency, and encourage innovation.

Vodafone will gain efficiency and a change from reactive to proactive IT and network operations thanks to Ericsson’s AI technologies and data-driven model. As a result of the increased network quality and performance, Vodafone customers will have a better user experience.

Ericsson will be in charge of Vodafone’s network design, rollout, operations, management, optimization, and maintenance. The move will help the service provider achieve its aim of providing a diverse range of fresh and unique offerings to its consumers in Oman.

Bader Al Zidi, Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone says: “Our focus is to ensure that we offer our customers a wide range of differentiating services that will add value to their lives, as well as redefining customer service in the country. We expect high performing Core and RAN technologies and AI, automation, and analytics to further accelerate operational transformation through our partnership. Ericsson has the knowledge and understanding of our requirements. As part of this partnership, we are also joining hands to develop and build the capacity of Omani youth in the areas of technology and information. Our goal is to offer customers an exceptional customer experience as well as upscale the Omani youth, to ensure that Vodafone is able to meet its commitment of bringing superior quality network and mobile communications to the people of Oman through Omani local talent in the long term”

Fadi Pharaon, President of Ericsson Middle East and Africa says: “We are proud to be chosen by Vodafone to deploy and run their entire greenfield network in Oman. This collaboration will lead to Vodafone launching its new mobile broadband service and providing Oman with an additional nationwide mobile network. We are pleased to implement the latest in radio access and core technologies, as well as utilizing the latest in automation, and artificial intelligence software to run the network and secure great user experience.”