STC committed to 4G network expansion

The total number of STC Group subscribers has surpassed 160 million customers across the world, its CEO Saud bin Majed Al-Daweesh announced.The group provided telecommunication services in 11 countries.Al-Daweesh made the announcement at an event in Riyadh,Al-Daweesh pointed out that the group faced challenges in its progressive pat.He said the group managed to achieve success in its splendid and posted record results, exceeding expectations.The STC Group is constantly seeking new opportunities abroad to benefit from globalization.A bright and dedicated workforce contributed to the success of STC’s overseas operations, he pointed out.He said the group’s revenues grew to SR56 billion by the end of 2011 from SR34 billion in 2006, he said, adding that its profitability grew to SR20 billion from SR16 billion.These achievements helped the STC Group to gain a prestigious position on the global telecommunications map as it ranks as the 14th biggest operator, he stated.He said the STC Group’s ambition is to be listed among the list of the top 10 global telecom operators.Al-Daweesh put the number of STC Group subscribers at more than 160 million across the world. This includes 34 million customers in the domestic market. There were only 18 million customers in 2006, he said.He said the group’s coverage of 4G network will cross 65 percent by the end of this year.The coverage is expected to reach to 90 percent by the end of 2014, he added.He said the STC Group would interconnect more than half a million houses with FTTH technology by the end of 2012.More than 1 million houses would link up to this technology by the end of 2014, providing a coherent and solid basis for the digital economy.