Atheeb awards Motorola $165 mln WiMAX contract in Saudi Arabia

Motorola, Inc. announced a $165 mln WiMAX 802.16e infrastructure contract with Etihad Atheeb Telecommunication Company (Atheeb) that will enable the new service provider to offer compelling and unique broadband services to subscribers in Saudi Arabia.

The contract includes the delivery of Motorola’s new WAP 800 access point, featuring smart antenna technology, plus a comprehensive service package including end-to-end delivery of network planning, installation, optimization and support services.

“High-speed communications will be delivered utilizing Motorola’s WiMAX 802.16e technology and services. Users demand connectivity whether they’re at home or in the office,” said Ali Amer, vice president, Middle East, Africa and Pakistan, Motorola Home & Networks Mobility.

The WAP 800 access point technology to be deployed with Atheeb has 4 transmit and 8 receive antennas per sector providing optimal coverage and uplink data performance.

Etihad Atheeb Telecommunication Company was formed as a new provider of fixed telecoms services in Saudi Arabia.  The consortium draws on the local knowledge and passion of the Atheeb Trading Group under the leadership of Prince Abdulaziz bin Ahmed bin Abdulaziz.  This is combined with the deep operational experience of Batelco who provide the telecoms expertise and know how.  The consortium is completed by the strength of the Al Nahla and Traco companies who share the vision for high speed, reliable communication services in the Kingdom.

The company is now preparing for a widely anticipated IPO that will enable people in the Kingdom to invest in this forward looking and proudly Saudi company.