Company Helps Atheeb Subscribers Experience Unparalleled High-Speed Broadband Network Services

17 June 2009, Shenzhen, China– ZTE Corporation (“ZTE” - H share stock code: 00763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ) a leading global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions, announces that it has partnered with Etihad Atheeb Telecom (Atheeb), the largest WiMAX operator in Saudi Arabia, to build the Kingdom’s first nationwide WiMAX network. Upon completion in 1Q 2010, the WiMAX network will help Atheeb fully meet the demands of the local market by providing subscribers with an unparalleled experience through its high-speed broadband network services.

Under the contract agreement, ZTE will help Atheeb construct a high-speed WiMAX network covering five major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Dammam and Khobar. In addition to about 300 WiMAX base stations, ZTE will also supply related equipment including IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystems)and MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) to Atheeb, thus becoming the largest equipment supplier of Atheeb.

Atheeb is the leading telecom operator in Saudi Arabia and has been focused on the construction of the WiMAX network since it was awarded a Fixed Telecom license in 2007. In the past two years, ZTE and Atheeb have been working closely on a series of system tests to ensure the WiMAX network operates with maximum efficiency. 

ZTE’s innovative technology, including its 4x8 Beamforming and Dual-carrier RRU, has been highly recognized by Atheeb. With its excellent customization terminal solutions and outstanding team services, ZTE offers Atheeb a competitive edge in Saudi’s wireless network information market to help it build the Kingdom’s first nationwide WiMAX network.

“Today we’re extremely pleased to ink the contract with Etihad Atheeb Telecom. It marks a significant milestone for ZTE WiMAX products to support such as large scale nationwide network in Saudi Arabia. It’s our great pleasure to work with Atheeb to create Saudi’s largest WiMAX network,” said Zhao Songpu, General Manager of WiMAX Product Line, ZTE Corporation. “ZTE is the leading pioneer in the WiMAX sector and has been leading the industry to propel the development and deployment of WiMAX. We are committed to providing the best products and services to our customers.”

“We’re excited to build the country’s first and nationwide WiMAX network together with ZTE. Their leading product solutions and world-class technology experts will help us ensure the network runs efficiently and meets the local market demand,” said Mr. Sadeq, CTO of Etihad Atheeb Telecom. “The launch of the WiMAX network will further drive the development of 3G, as well as the telecom industry in Saudi as a whole. We’re proud to be the leading company to provide our customers with such advanced and user-friendly technology in order to enhance their network experience,” added Mr. Sadeq.

ZTE is the leading WiMAX equipment provider offering a comprehensive range of mobile WiMAX base stations and terminal products. For its innovative technology and customized services, the company has gained a leading position in the WiMAX industry.

As of 1Q 2009, ZTE has deployed 16 WiMAX networks in 26 countries, serving more than 40 operators worldwide. ZTE’s WiMAX product, including its 2.5GHz base station, 3.5GHz base station and terminal equipment, were the first in the industry to receive the Wave2 certification conducted by WiMAX Forum. The company is committed to providing the best WiMAX solutions and equipment to its global customers.