Mobily partners with Ericsson to deploy AI-powered solutions that optimize connectivity for millions of pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj season in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The initiative focuses on network anomaly detection, real-time monitoring, and automated adjustments to handle peak demands in high-density areas like Mina and Haram. Ericsson’s technology includes uplink interference optimization, which reached level 4 autonomy per TM Forum standards, allowing the system to predict issues, reroute traffic, and allocate resources without human input.
The collaboration integrates centralized AI for overall orchestration with distributed AI for local decisions, enabling Mobily to adapt quickly to fluctuating pilgrim needs. Ericsson supplies interactive dashboards for performance insights and explainable AI reports that detail decision rationales, avoiding opaque processes. This setup supports Saudi Arabia’s Pilgrim Experience Program and Vision 2030 by advancing digital services and social development.
Results from the deployment show a 15 percent rise in signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio, a nine percent gain in higher order modulation, seven percent better spectral efficiency, and a 10 percent increase in 5G throughput. These improvements allow efficient spectrum use and reliable access to services like navigation and communication amid crowds. The partnership builds on prior trials, including last year’s uplink optimization, to ensure seamless experiences at large-scale events.
- Collaboration uses AI agents for anomaly detection, solution evaluation, and zero-touch actuation
- Uplink interference optimization achieves TM Forum level 4 autonomy for predictive, automated management
- Centralized AI handles network-wide visibility; distributed AI enables rapid local responses in dense zones
- Real-time dashboards provide customized insights into performance and user experiences
- Deployment aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 for digitized pilgrim services and national development
“This collaboration is essential in ensuring pilgrims enjoyed a smooth, connected experience during Hajj,” says Alaa Malki, Chief Technology Officer at Mobily.
- Mobily’s partnership with Ericsson dates back to 2004 when Ericsson implemented parts of Mobily’s GSM network. The collaboration evolved through generations, including 4G expansions in 2013 and 5G explorations starting in 2016. Ericsson provides managed services, radio access networks, and core infrastructure to Mobily, with extensions in 2020 and 2024 focusing on AI, machine learning, and automation to support digital transformation across the kingdom.
- The companies announced several deals in 2025, including a February memorandum of understanding at LEAP 2025 to explore intent-driven autonomous networks that enable self-optimizing systems. Ericsson and Mobily also completed a proof of concept for quality-on-service APIs to aid external developers on 4G and 5G networks, alongside testing six-component carrier aggregation that reached 4.2Gbps downlink throughput. In July, Ericsson established a new regional headquarters in Riyadh, highlighting ongoing work with Mobily on connectivity projects aligned with Vision 2030.
