Nokia Siemens Networks, a leading global enabler of telecoms services, has partnered with Al Sarya Telecommunications Company and Belal Company, to establish a joint-venture company in Saudi Arabia.

The aim of Nokia Siemens Networks Al Saudia is to develop local market opportunities in the telecommunication services sector by enabling operators to optimise their networks.

“Creating this joint venture is an important step in our strategy to further grow our business in Saudi Arabia,” stated Dr Talal Al-Ghazzawi, chairman of Nokia Siemens Networks al Saudia Ltd.

Under the terms of the joint-venture, NSN Saudi will be offering operators four distinct services:
• network implementation services including those for fixed, mobile and IP technologies;
• business solutions services supporting operators in addressing their network operation challenges and improving their performance through consulting integration services;
• managed services to improve efficiency and operational performance and;
• care services, providing the best hardware and software maintenance services for optimal network performance.

“This is a major milestone for Nokia Siemens Networks as it looks to expand its footprint within Saudi Arabia where it has been working with all major operators. The new JV ensures operational efficiency and provides the right platform to provide our clients with world-class services. This strategic partnership should allow us to pursue new directions such as the possibility of offering multi-vendor services and will unlock fresh revenue streams,” added Jorg Erlemeier, head of Middle East region for Nokia Siemens Networks.

The new venture will be led by Ali Damiri as the executive director. Ali brings with him over 25 years of international experience. Prior to this position, Ali was Head of Nokia Siemens Networks for Saudi, the Levant and Iran Sub-Region covering six countries.

Together with the signing of this new venture, Nokia Siemens Networks al Saudia is hosting a Saudi Industry Seminar 2011 today, entitled: “Shaping the Communications Industry in the Kingdom.'-TradeArabia News Service