KAFD & Huawei Launch Saudi’s First WiFi-7 Smart Service
In a landmark move for Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure, the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) has announced the launch of the country’s first Smart WiFi-7 service in partnership with global ICT leader Huawei.
The advanced connectivity solution is set to roll out across the 1.6 million square metre King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh, supporting its transformation into one of the world’s most digitally advanced urban environments.
The strategic collaboration strengthens KAFD’s growing reputation as a leading smart city and digital innovation hub within the region.
As part of its broader Smart City Platform, the introduction of WiFi-7 aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life Program, enhancing the digital experience for tenants, residents and visitors while enabling new commercial opportunities and operational efficiencies for businesses.
Next-generation wireless technology
WiFi-7, the latest generation of wireless technology, is designed to deliver significantly faster speeds, lower latency and greater stability in high-density environments. As urban digital demands grow, the new Smart WiFi-7 network will enable seamless, uninterrupted access to high-speed internet, even during peak periods.
Ramez Al-Fayez, Chief Information Technology Officer at KAFD DMC, highlighted the district’s commitment to delivering high-quality urban experiences supported by world-class digital infrastructure: “Our partnership with Huawei to introduce Smart WiFi-7 reflects our commitment to driving innovation and redefining urban development standards.
"With Riyadh ranked third regionally and 25th globally in the IMD Smart Cities Index 2024, KAFD’s continued focus on pioneering technologies will further cement the capital’s position as a leading global smart city.”
He added that the new service will significantly enhance KAFD’s digital ecosystem, supporting business growth, improving visitor experiences and building a fully connected community.
Supporting business intelligence and personalisation
The implementation of Smart WiFi-7 is not solely about connectivity. It integrates with KAFD’s AI-powered Smart City Platform to offer personalised services and data-driven insights.
The technology enables continuous connectivity across venues, intelligent user authentication and customised promotions tailored to individual preferences.
“Our cutting-edge Smart WiFi-7 technology will enable seamless connectivity and personalised experiences for visitors while providing invaluable insights for businesses. This collaboration highlights Huawei’s dedication to driving digital transformation and contributing to the evolution of smart cities worldwide.”
Retailers and restaurants within KAFD expect to benefit directly from the platform’s real-time data analytics, gaining actionable insights to improve marketing, enhance customer engagement and drive operational efficiencies.
KAFD’s commitment to leading digital innovation was recognised internationally. It is the first Middle East and North African neighbourhood to receive the WiredScore Global Smart Neighbourhood Certification. The certification highlights the district’s excellence in digital infrastructure, sustainability and connectivity—core pillars of a smart, future-ready city.
The successful rollout of WiFi-7 follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between KAFD DMC and Huawei at LEAP 2025, aimed at jointly advancing smart city applications and digital services.
The launch signifies a key milestone in this ongoing partnership and reinforces KAFD’s status as a benchmark for integrated urban innovation across the region.
The collaboration between KAFD and Huawei sets a new standard for smart urban development in Saudi Arabia. By prioritising high-performance digital infrastructure and embracing next-generation technologies, KAFD is positioned to support the ambitions of Riyadh as a global smart city and drive the future of connected urban living in the MENA region.
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