Riyadh, September 17, 2023, The fifth spectrum auction for International Mobile Telecommunication (IMT) networks in the frequency bands of 600, 700, and 3,800 MHz will take place on October 16, 2023, according to the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST). The information memorandum and rules for this auction were released by CST, allowing authorized service providers to take part. Through this auction, CST hopes to increase customer internet speeds, encourage investment and competition in the wireless service industry, and enhance 5G coverage in rural areas as well as the quality of service on roads, border crossings, and railroads. The auction, which will strengthen the Kingdom's leadership position in the ICT industry, is part of efforts to implement the "Spectrum Outlook for Commercial and Innovative Use 2021–2023," which was published in 2020, and is in line with its strategic roles in enabling 5G networks in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia will become the first nation in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa to assign the 600 MHz band for IMTand the highest country globally in terms of IMT usage.
The information memorandum details the auction's rules and design components, including how channel blocks are allocated to different domains, technical requirements, eligibility requirements, opening pricing, and channel block obligations.
CST urges qualified service providers to take part in the auction and points out that the information memo may be found at the following URL:
https://www.cst.gov.sa/en/services/spectrum/Documents/IMofSpectrumAuctionof600-700-3800MHz.pdf
