< PreviousCOVER STORY 30 EDGE | March 2025 Edge_Mar2025_30-35_Cover Story_13526777.indd 3024/02/2025 12:16PARTNER CONTENT EDGE | March 2025 31 Patrick Johansson, President of Ericsson Middle East and Africa on 5G world-fi rsts, the net-zero mission and how to bridge the digital divide TOMORROW, TODAY Words by Beatriz Valero de Urquía Photography by Saroj Khadka Edge_Mar2025_30-35_Cover Story_13526777.indd 3124/02/2025 16:13COVER STORY 32 EDGE | March 2025 Mark Twain once said there is “no such thing as a new idea”. He might have changed his mind if he was faced with technological innovations such as quantum computing, IoT or generative AI. And yet, the majority of these advances do not exist in a vacuum—they are an evolution of the technologies that came before then, and pave the way for a future of new possibilities. As the build-out of 5G continues, with around 320 networks having been launched worldwide, global 5G population coverage is expected to reach 55% at the end of 2024, according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report. Although 5G facilitates new use cases, it is not so much a revolution but another step in the evolution of connectivity, building on the old to power the new. In the same way, Patrick Johansson might have held his current role for only six months, but his history with Ericsson is long. As the company’s President of Ericsson Middle East and Africa, he brings forth a forward-facing vision, but one grounded in years of experience at the leading technology company. “Transformations are always challenging and complicated,” Johansson noted during a conversation on the sidelines of the LEAP 2025 conference held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “The good thing is that, at Ericsson, we have done all telecom transitions since fi xed line into mobile, including 1G, 2G, 3G, and now 5G and 5G advanced. We are the technology leader of the industry.” In 1876, Lars Magnus Ericsson started a small mechanical workshop in central Stockholm, which went on to become one of the world’s leading information and communication technology (ICT) companies. Over the following 140 years, the company achieved key milestones and broken records, from manufacturing some of the first telephones, to managing networks that process 40% of the world’s data. For the firm, change is not a challenge, but a core part of its identity. True Innovation can rarely be achieved in siloes. For Ericsson, its partnerships are key /Ericsson has partnered with Mobily to ensure the best connectivity for pilgrims during Hajj Edge_Mar2025_30-35_Cover Story_13526777.indd 3224/02/2025 12:16PARTNER CONTENT EDGE | March 2025 33 “We’ve seen it all,” Johansson refl lected. “The complexity keeps on increasing, but this is why it’s so important to work with the right partners. We are present in most countries in the world and work with almost all operators. This is how we build the extreme level of experience that we have, compared to many others.” THE FUTURE OF 5G The history of technology is full of firsts. For Ericsson, the latest one was the deployment of the world’s fi rst implementation of Automated Radio Resource Partitioning (RRP) on a 5G standalone network slice, as part of a partnership with stc Group. By setting specifi c targets for throughput, latency, and availability, stc Group was able to ensure the network automatically meets these goals through effi cient resource allocation. The demonstration took place in a live network environment with a select group of users, leveraging stc Group’s dual-mode 5G Core, Radio and Transport products provided by Ericsson, along with the new Automated RRP software feature. “With 5G, there’s been a lot of focus on the radio network, and we have optimisations there,” said Johansson. “But when you want to have the full 5G experience with network slicing, with further optimisations, making sure you get the right capacity and the right latency; then you need to have standalone.” True innovation can rarely be achieved in siloes. For Ericsson, its partnerships with telecommunications operators all around the world are key to connecting customers with its solutions—and one of the keys to its success. It is for this reason that Johansson highlighted the importance of fostering a trusted and collaborative network of collaborators who can work together to reach the next frontier, saying: “It’s about 320 5G networks have been launched globally Ericsson. It’s about the operators. But it is about the entire ecosystem system around that as well.” CUSTOMER-FIRST There is no successful technology without a customer. “From the value chain point of view we are all here to support the end consumers or ourselves as users,” Johansson said. “There are many diff erent ways of ensuring the best customer experience, but it all starts with technology.” Recently, many discussions around this topic have centred on artifi cial intelligence, and similar machine-learning algorithms. However, Johansson said it “goes beyond that”, stressing how “It’s about having the appropriate and latest software which creates the energy effi ciency built on the hardware, but then also providing the user experience that we want.” In Saudi Arabia, Hajj season is one of those moments that put mobile networks to the test. With over two million pilgrims travelling to the /Many parts of the world are transitioning their networks infrastructure to embrace 5G Edge_Mar2025_30-35_Cover Story_13526777.indd 3324/02/2025 12:16COVER STORY 34 EDGE | March 2025 same location during a fundamental moment in their lives, connectivity is essential. Under these circumstances, the Kingdom sees a sharp rise in data traffi c alongside new usage patterns. “Last year, we had a very good collaboration with Mobily, and we provided seamless connectivity for everyone, whether on 2G, 3G, 4G or 5G,” noted Johansson. For years, the industry has focused on downlink, because that aff ects the customer experience of, for example, downloading a video clip. However, tides have turned, creating an increased interest on the uplink, he said, to support features such as lifestreaming. “It’s about uplink, downlink, and creating this immersive experience through enhanced data communication.” JOURNEY TO NET ZERO When it comes to sustainability targets, “it’s about setting an overall vision,” Johansson noted. For Ericsson, this is the company’s target of becoming net zero by 2040. To achieve this, sustainability being placed front and centre of the technology fi rm’s operations, from manufacturing to transportation and fi eld services. As part of its eff orts towards fostering green connectivity solutions, Ericsson has partnered with e& UAE. In November, the two companies completed one of the world’s fi rst deployments of Ericsson’s dual-band Massive MIMO radio, AIR 3229, on e& UAE’s network. This solution enables e& UAE to deliver 5G services simultaneously on both the 2600MHz and 3500MHz spectrum layers using a single unit. Compared to traditional deployments that use two separate radio units, Ericsson’s solutions are said to reduce power consumption by 20% and minimise the tower load by 25%, advancing energy effi ciency and operational sustainability. “But that is not enough,” Johansson added. “We have a number of collaboration agreements with a lot of operators in the UAE, in Saudi and in Africa, where we bring back enormous amounts At Ericsson, we have done all telecom transitions since fixed line into mobile, including 1G, 2G, 3G, and now 5G and 5G advanced Edge_Mar2025_30-35_Cover Story_13526777.indd 3424/02/2025 12:16PARTNER CONTENT EDGE | March 2025 35 of equipment. Using Mobily as an example here, I think we have more than 400 metric tons of equipment that we need to bring back and ensure we have the appropriate recycling of.” BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE Mobile networks are the key to connecting the world. And yet, about one-third of the world’s people remain offl ine, according to the latest statistics from the International Telecommunication Union, the UN agency focused on digital technology. It many of these locations, it’s not about providing the latest, fastest, most innovative technology. Instead, providing stable connections can be enough to make a direct impact on people’s lives and livelihoods. “In Africa, it’s about making sure we have the most effi cient experience, whether that is 2G, 3G, 4G or 5G,” Johansson explained. “There are a few places, such as Rwanda, where we have 5G being launched. But it is also about optimising the network performance based on the spectrum available.” Partnerships are essential to bridge this gap. In 2024, Ericsson and MTN Group agreed to modernise the core network of MTN’s affi liates in South Africa and Nigeria over fi ve years. The agreement aims to ensure the readiness of MTN Nigeria’s and MTN South Africa’s network infrastructures to enable 5G standalone in the future. At the same time, Ericsson is also working with Tigo Tanzania to fully modernise and expand the existing 4G network across the country and roll out 5G networks at strategic locations across the nation. Once the spectrum is available, Johansson stressed, it is time to launch new technologies and incorporate modernised equipment that will allow for seamless upgrades into new spectrums. “It is a journey,” he refl ected. “It’s important that you get on the train and don’t get stuck at the station.” A VISION OF TOMORROW What about 6G? While the world is transitioning its mobile networks to the 5G spectrum, many are often quick to jump to the next exciting milestone. Equally, Ericsson’s research and development team is always working on developing innovations and patenting new technologies. The key is, however, to never leave the past behind, but to build the future on the back of its achievements. “I believe that 6G will be more of an evolution from 5G. It is built on similar principles, but it’s all about how we make that technology faster and even more immersive,” Johansson refl ected. “It’s not about breaking with the past. It’s a continuous journey where we cannot imagine the opportunities and future ahead.” 2040 The year Ericsson plans to achieve net zero /Ericsson’s is transitioning to net-zero, paying attention to the manufacturing and transportation of its products, as well as its field services Edge_Mar2025_30-35_Cover Story_13526777.indd 3524/02/2025 15:47WOMEN IN TECH 36 EDGE | March 2025 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY The work of UAE-based women in reshaping the future of technology proves that innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are included The tech industry is rapidly evolving, and women are at the forefront of driving this transformation. A new generation of female leaders is making waves with their visionary ideas, technical expertise, and determination to push the boundaries of what’s possible. These women are not only excelling in their respective fi elds but also paving the way for others to follow, breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities in technology. From leading groundbreaking advancements in artifi cial intelligence, cloud computing and quantum technology, to championing diversity and inclusion, their impact is felt across the industry. Their work in is reshaping the future of technology, proving that innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are included. These women are not just shaping the future of tech—they’re defi ning it, demonstrating that excellence in technology knows no gender. Their leadership is inspiring a new generation of women to pursue careers in tech, ensuring that the future of innovation will be brighter, more inclusive and driven by diverse voices. Edge_Mar2025_36-41_Women in the UAE_13540036.indd 3624/02/2025 15:48WOMEN IN TECH EDGE | March 2025 37 Dr. Suaad is the pride of the UAE-she holds a DBA in Aviation Management from the American Academy for Specialised Studies, an MBA from Coventry University in Aviation Management, Masters in Aeronautical Engineering from Coventry University and a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Hertfordshire University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the UK. She also has an honorary doctorate for the role of women in leadership and women empowerment. Dr. Suaad’s journey in the aviation sector began during her training in aircraft engineering with leading companies such as Messier Bugatti, Honeywell, Kunz, Airbus and Boeing. Inspired and motivated, she joined Emirates as fi rst aircraft engineer in UAE and has been an indispensable force working in the maintenance sector for more than 17 years. She is currently working as technical advisor for one of the biggest aviation projects in the UAE. Dr. Suaad is one of the founders of the Women in Aviation Middle East chapter. She is also the VP for Women in Aviation (Shenana) and the Chief Executive Offi cer of L2L [Learn to Live] consultation company. Dr. Suaad is the Ambassador of the International Union for Technical Education in UAE and has set up her own aviation program called Top Takeoff to empower young girls and women enter the highly competitive aviation industry. Among the many accolades and accomplishments she has been awarded in the course of her illustrious career, Dr. Suaad has also been awarded Best Female Infl uencer in the aviation sector for the year 2023 and the Emirates Women Award under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. She has also been upholding the image of women in the United Arab Emirates at the Shanghai Expo in 2010 and presenting as a jury member in the Star of Science program. Her name is included in the ‘Creative Women in the UAE’ Wikipedia by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa. DR. ENG SUAAD ALSHAMSI Aircraft Engineer – Technical Advisor Owner, Top Takeoff Program, Dream High Program Edge_Mar2025_36-41_Women in the UAE_13540036.indd 3724/02/2025 12:17WOMEN IN TECH 38 EDGE | March 2025 Trixie LohMirmand has two decades of residency and events experience in the UAE since 2005. She currently serves as the Executive Vice President in Events Management in Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), one of the largest strategic business units in the government affi liated organisation. She is also the CEO of KAOUN International, the wholly owned overseas events subsidiary of DWTC charged with creating global partnerships to catalyse international trade and investments via business events. Trixe’s portfolio of business events extends across the tech, sustainability, food & hospitality, interactive media and lifestyle sectors including Gitex Global and Gulfood, the largest tech and food & hospitality events in the world respectively and Dubai International Boat Show ranked top three globally. Trixie works with private and public sector stakeholders over the long term to scale and transform some of the local events into global mega scale business gatherings with resounding economic and tourism impact on the country and the region’s vibrant, dynamic trade and investment activities. Amidst the pandemic, under the Dubai leadership, Trixie led her team to spearhead the global restart of large-scale events with Gitex Global and Gulfood, cementing Dubai/UAE as the fi rst city in the world to safely re-open mega events amidst the global lockdown. Both events remain as the only large-scale business events globally to run uninterrupted during the pandemic. Trixie has led DWTC to scale Gitex Global to become the largest tech and startup event in the world, and consistently voted by global tech executives as the “Best Large-Scale Exhibition in the World” of any industry in independent global surveys. TRIXIE LOHMIRMAND Executive Vice President Dubai World Trade Centre Edge_Mar2025_36-41_Women in the UAE_13540036.indd 3824/02/2025 12:17WOMEN IN TECH EDGE | March 2025 39 Maimuna Rashid is a 2024 Forbes 30 under 30-a versatile professional, a visionary entrepreneur and a catalyst of change at the forefront of innovation in the UAE. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Pupilar, alongside her partner Aqsa Khalifa, she has redefi ned youth employment with the region’s fi rst skill-based career community platform. From the age of 15, Maimuna’s exceptional talent and drive propelled her to extraordinary achievements, winning over 50+ awards and recognitions at the national and international levels throughout her school and university years. At just 20, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, as a master of many herself, she decided to lay the foundation for her career with innovation and impact. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Pupilar alongside her partner Aqsa Khalifa, Maimuna has redefi ned youth employment with the region’s fi rst skill-based career community platform. Pupilar has garnered widespread acclaim, both founders have been featured in leading publications and even Netfl ix’s Dubai Bling 2, for its groundbreaking approach to connecting youth with career opportunities via skills. That’s not all: Maimuna was also selected to be among the Top 8 Women-Led Startups by the Ministry of Economy and the EWA Accelerator. Driven by her passion to break biases for the next generation of talents, Maimuna and her team is building UAE’s largest youth career community. Her commitment to fostering inclusivity and providing equal opportunities shines through her exceptional vision and pathbreaking initiatives. In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavours, Maimuna’s startup contributes as a Value Co-Creator Partner at ARE2071, aimed at shaping the future of talents in the nation. Her strategic insights have also made her a sought-after collaborator on government initiatives. MAIMUNA RASHID Co-Founder and CEO Pupilar Edge_Mar2025_36-41_Women in the UAE_13540036.indd 3924/02/2025 12:18Next >