Ericsson Opens New Regional Headquarters in Riyadh to Drive Digital Innovation Across MEA

Strategic Move Reinforces Ericsson’s Commitment to Saudi Arabia

Ericsson has officially inaugurated its new regional headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,

signaling a significant milestone in its commitment to the Kingdom and the broader Middle East

and Africa (MEA) region. The move underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing status as a tech and

innovation hub in line with Vision 2030.

High-Level Ceremony Marks New Chapter in Regional Operations

The inauguration ceremony was attended by top Saudi government officials and Ericsson leadership, including:

H.E. Eng. Haytham AlOhali, Vice Minister of Communications and Information Technology

H.E. Dr. Abdullah A. Aldubaikhi, Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Investment

H.E. Petra Menander, Swedish Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Börje Ekholm, President & CEO, Ericsson Group

Patrick Johansson, President of Europe, Middle East and Africa, Ericsson

CEOs of stc Group and Mobily

Supporting Vision 2030 and the National Digital Economy

Officials emphasized that the new regional HQ supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by

empowering local talent, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable, tech-led economic development.

The headquarters will act as a hub for collaboration, R&D, and digital transformation in the region.

Accelerating 5G and the Road to 6G

Discussions at the event focused on network evolution, the 6G roadmap, and Ericsson’s

role in shaping inclusive digital infrastructure. The company reaffirmed its commitment

to 5G leadership and emerging technology adoption across sectors.

Gen-E Program: Empowering Future Saudi Talent

Since 2018, Ericsson’s Gen-E Graduate Program at the Riyadh 5G Innovation Hub has

trained over 190 Saudi graduates, 50% of whom are women. The program equips youth

with expertise in 5G, IoT, and AI, contributing directly to local digital transformation.

“Blink Lab”: Advanced Connectivity for Gaming & Beyond

In partnership with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Ericsson launched

the Blink Lab—an advanced connectivity research hub focused on gaming, ultra-reliable 5G use

cases, and immersive digital experiences. The lab supports local innovation ecosystems and

global product development.

Driving Research with KAUST to Advance 5G and 6G

Ericsson also collaborates with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

to accelerate 5G and 6G technologies, enhance scientific research, and nurture future talent—further

aligning with national ICT development goals.

Voices of Support: Building the Future Together

H.E. Dr. Abdullah Aldubaikhi: “This investment shows Saudi Arabia’s leadership in attracting global tech players.”

H.E. Eng. Abdulrahman AlMufadda: “The HQ cements Riyadh as a regional center for innovation.”

stc & Mobily CEOs: “Ericsson is a strategic partner in shaping the region’s digital future.”

Börje Ekholm – CEO, Ericsson: “Riyadh is now at the heart of our regional vision for digital growth.”