During the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2023, Zain KSA signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Huawei, reflecting a significant milestone in the field of green technology collaboration. This agreement solidifies the collaboration between Zain KSA and Huawei as they work together to drive the widespread adoption of green technology within Zain's operational framework, networks and facilities.
This strategic partnership underscores Zain KSA's resolute commitment to environmental sustainability as it embarks on a journey to combat climate change and embrace cutting-edge, eco-friendly energy solutions. By embracing robust environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Zain KSA seeks to expedite its sustainability endeavors and environmental objectives, paving the way for the widespread adoption of green technology throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The MoU is set to bolster the company's sustainability initiatives, with a particular focus on three key areas. Zain KSA is actively transitioning to a 5G green network, enhancing resource efficiency and reducing energy consumption through the utilization of advanced AI systems for operational optimization while conserving energy. The highlight of their green network endeavors is the world's inaugural zero-emission 5G network deployed at the Six Senses Desert Dunes resort in the Red Sea, a collaborative effort with Red Sea Global (RSG). This pioneering solar-powered network draws power from over 760,000 solar panels, coupled with purpose-designed towers and state-of-the-art 3D printing technology. These innovative strides align with three principal objectives: environmental preservation, emissions reduction via clean energy utilization and minimizing visual disruption.
For this, Eng. Abdulrahman Al-Mufadda, Chief Technology Officer of Zain KSA, stated: "Our commitment to integrating technology with sustainability is driven by innovation and the development of modern digital infrastructure. Our ultimate goal is to preserve the environment and ensure its sustainability for future generations. At every level of our company, we are actively promoting sustainability, aiming to be pioneers in technical sustainability. Our efforts have turned us into a leading telecommunications and digital services provider.”
He added, “This partnership with global giant Huawei is a natural extension of our strategic alliances and our corporate sustainability strategy, which serves Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing the quality of life and human well-being by reducing carbon emissions by more than 278 million tons annually by 2030 and ultimately achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. In fact, Zain KSA and Huawei share a unified vision to build a smarter and more environmentally friendly world. Together, we will take steps to reduce the negative impact on planet Earth, both globally and specifically within the Kingdom, aiming to empower humanity to achieve its aspirations by harnessing the power of technology to preserve the sustainability of our planet for future generations."
Zain KSA's "A" rating on the MSCI ESG Index, a significant upgrade from its prior BBB rating, underscores the company's unwavering dedication to environmental conservation, social responsibility and effective governance across its operational, financial and administrative domains.
