The Saudi-based stc group has signed an agreement to implement the Silklink project in the Syrian Arab Republic, following its selection through a competitive process involving regional telecommunications operators.
Silklink fibre-optic network
The Silklink project, with an investment exceeding $800 million (SAR 3 billion), is aimed at developing a modern, high-capacity telecommunications backbone across Syria.
The initiative includes the deployment of a fiber-optic network extending more than 4,500 kilometers, alongside the construction of data centers and international submarine cable landing stations to enhance regional and global connectivity.
The project is expected to significantly increase data transmission capacity and network resilience, enabling telecommunications operators to deliver advanced digital services. These include cloud computing solutions, digital platforms, and Internet of Things applications, while also improving overall internet quality and service reliability across the country.
Abdulsalam Haykal, Syria’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, said that the country is set to attract nearly $1 billion in telecommunications investment, including plans to deploy thousands of kilometers of fiber-optic cable to strengthen digital connectivity between Asia and Europe.
Syrian Investment Authority Chief Talal al-Hilali noted that, “The agreements between Syria and Saudi Arabia targeted vital sectors that impact people’s lives and form essential pillars for rebuilding the Syrian economy.”
Silklink forms a core part of stc Group’s strategy to expand its footprint in cross-border digital infrastructure and to establish integrated connectivity routes linking Arab, Asian, and European markets.
The project strengthens the group’s position as a key regional digital infrastructure provider and supports its long-term growth objectives in telecommunications and digital services.
For Syria, the initiative represents a major step towards upgrading national digital infrastructure and enhancing its integration into regional and international communications networks.
