TAWAL Company Profile

Background

Overview

TAWAL is a leading integrated Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure provider based in Saudi Arabia. Established in April 2019 as a subsidiary of the Saudi Telecom Company (stc), TAWAL specializes in the design, construction, operation, leasing, and commercialization of telecom towers and related infrastructure. The company aims to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce expenses, and minimize environmental impact for its clients.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To enable operators to enrich the communication needs of customers by accelerating the roll-out of future technologies (e.g., 5G, IoT) and supporting the Vision 2030 Digital transformation.

Vision: To become the leading regional ICT infrastructure service provider.

Industry Significance

TAWAL plays a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia's ICT sector by providing essential infrastructure that supports the rapid expansion of mobile networks and the deployment of advanced technologies. Its services are crucial for mobile network operators (MNOs), government entities, and businesses seeking reliable and cost-effective connectivity solutions.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Infrastructure Sharing: Promote the sharing of telecom towers and related passive infrastructure to achieve operational efficiencies and cost reductions.

Technological Advancement: Support the deployment of future technologies such as 5G and IoT by providing scalable and adaptable infrastructure solutions.

Sustainability: Implement environmentally sustainable practices in infrastructure development and operations.

Areas of Specialization

Built-to-Suit Solutions: Custom-designed telecom towers tailored to specific client requirements.

Colocation Services: Leasing space on existing towers to multiple operators, enhancing coverage and reducing costs.

In-Building Solutions (IBS): Enhancing indoor coverage in high-density areas through advanced technologies.

Fiber Facilities: Providing fiber connectivity to telecom towers to support high-speed data services.

Coverage as a Service (CaaS): Offering comprehensive coverage solutions to meet diverse client needs.

Operations and Maintenance (O&M): Ensuring the reliability and efficiency of telecom infrastructure through comprehensive maintenance services.

Key Technologies Utilized

5G Infrastructure: Deploying state-of-the-art towers and equipment to support 5G networks.

IoT Integration: Facilitating the rollout of IoT applications through robust and scalable infrastructure.

Renewable Energy Solutions: Incorporating solar and hybrid energy systems to power telecom towers, reducing environmental impact.

Primary Markets Targeted

Saudi Arabia: Serving MNOs, government entities, and businesses across the Kingdom.

Pakistan: Following the acquisition of AWAL Telecom, TAWAL has expanded its presence in the Pakistani market.

Europe: Through the acquisition of towers in Bulgaria, Croatia, and Slovenia, TAWAL has entered the European market.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Debt Financing (August 2023): TAWAL secured $1.4 billion in debt financing from First Abu Dhabi Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, and Saudi National Bank. This funding is intended to support the company's expansion plans and technological advancements.

Acquisition by Public Investment Fund (April 2024): The Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired a 51% stake in TAWAL, valuing the company at approximately $4.5 billion. This strategic move aims to create the region's largest telecom tower company.

Utilization of Capital

Infrastructure Expansion: Building new telecom towers and upgrading existing ones to meet the growing demand for advanced connectivity solutions.

Technological Development: Investing in the deployment of 5G networks, IoT infrastructure, and renewable energy solutions.

Geographical Expansion: Entering new markets, including Europe and Pakistan, to broaden the company's footprint and service offerings.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

TAWAL Pakistan: Following the acquisition of AWAL Telecom, TAWAL is integrating operations in Pakistan to expand its market presence.

TAWAL Europe: Through the acquisition of towers in Bulgaria, Croatia, and Slovenia, TAWAL is establishing a foothold in the European market.

Stages of Development

Integration Phase: Consolidating operations and aligning business strategies in newly acquired markets.

Expansion Phase: Deploying additional infrastructure and services to meet local demand and enhance market share.

Target Conditions

Urban and Semi-Urban Areas: Enhancing coverage and capacity in densely populated regions.

Rural and Remote Areas: Extending connectivity to underserved regions to promote digital inclusion.

Anticipated Milestones

2025: Plan to build 1,000 new telecom towers to support the rollout of advanced technologies.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Smart Poles: Innovative infrastructure solutions that integrate telecom equipment with urban furniture, enhancing city aesthetics and functionality.

Flexi Towers: Modular tower designs that offer flexibility and scalability to meet diverse client needs.

Significant Scientific Methods

Advanced Network Planning: Utilizing sophisticated modeling and simulation tools to optimize network design and performance.

Sustainability Practices: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to reduce environmental impact.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Mohammed Alhakbani: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Professional Background: Extensive experience in the telecommunications sector, with a focus on infrastructure development and strategic management.

Contributions: Led TAWAL's expansion into new markets and spearheaded initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.

Saeed Alshehri: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Professional Background: Background in operations management within the ICT industry.

Contributions: Oversees daily operations, ensuring the seamless delivery of services and the implementation of best practices.

Hareth Alsahan: Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)

Professional Background: Expertise in human resources management and organizational development.

Contributions: Focuses on talent acquisition, employee development, and fostering a positive work environment.

Abdulrahman Al Moaiqel: Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

Professional Background: Experience in commercial strategy and business development within the telecom sector.

Contributions: Leads commercial initiatives, including client relations, sales strategies, and market expansion efforts.

Saud Altoaimy: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Professional Background: Financial management expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Contributions: Manages financial planning, analysis, and reporting to support strategic decision-making.

Emmanuel Leonard: Chief International Officer

Professional Background: International business development experience in the ICT industry.

Contributions: Oversees global expansion strategies and partnerships to drive international growth.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The telecom infrastructure market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for high-speed data services, the rollout of 5G networks, and the expansion of IoT applications. Companies like TAWAL are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends by providing scalable and efficient infrastructure solutions.

Competitor Analysis