Dubai, UAE – March 5, 2025 – In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionize digital entertainment accessibility in the Middle East, Beyond ONE, a leading global digital services provider, has announced a strategic partnership with global technology provider TIMWETECH. The partnership aims to seamlessly integrate premium digital content into the mobile experience of millions of users across Saudi Arabia and Oman, eliminating financial barriers that have long hindered access to high-quality digital services.
Bridging the Digital Divide
With credit card penetration below 30% in these markets, the agreement, signed at MWC25 Barcelona, addresses a critical challenge: enabling users to access and pay for digital content directly through their mobile accounts. Virgin Mobile Saudi Arabia and FRiENDi Oman subscribers—totaling 3.5 million users—will now be able to subscribe to premium streaming, gaming, and infotainment services without the need for traditional banking relationships.
“This partnership fundamentally transforms how our customers access digital experiences,” said Hani ELKukhun, CEO of Beyond ONE MEA. “In fast-growing economies, mobile accounts often serve as people’s primary financial tool. By connecting these accounts directly to digital content, we’re removing long-standing barriers and democratizing access to services that can educate, entertain, and improve quality of life. This aligns perfectly with our mission to create a more inclusive digital ecosystem in high-growth markets.”
Seamless and Secure Payments Through Direct Carrier Billing
A key component of this partnership is the implementation of Direct Carrier Billing (DCB), a frictionless payment solution that allows Virgin Mobile and FRiENDi customers to subscribe and pay for digital services using their mobile balance with just two clicks. This eliminates the complexity of separate payment systems while ensuring transparency and control for Beyond ONE’s largely prepaid customer base.
To reinforce consumer confidence, the integration includes robust security measures such as:
- Double opt-in confirmations to prevent unauthorized subscriptions
- Clear subscription terms to ensure full transparency
- AI-powered real-time fraud detection to minimize unauthorized charges
“We’re bringing our carrier-grade VAS aggregation technology to Beyond ONE to create both a seamless and secure experience for millions of mobile users,” said Diogo Salvi, CEO at TIMWETECH. “Our platform will operate invisibly behind Virgin Mobile and FRiENDi’s trusted brands, ensuring a consistent customer experience while dramatically expanding content options.”
Key Benefits of the Partnership
This collaboration unlocks four major advantages for mobile users in Saudi Arabia and Oman:
- Expanded Content Ecosystem: Beginning in Q3 2025, customers will gain access to an array of premium entertainment options, including global and regional streaming services, educational platforms, and gaming subscriptions—all accessible directly through their mobile provider.
- Financial Inclusion: Prepaid users can now subscribe to premium digital services without requiring a credit card or bank account, making advanced digital experiences more accessible to underserved populations.
- Enhanced Consumer Protection: Clear subscription policies, automatic spending alerts, and simplified management tools empower users with complete control over their digital spending.
- Faster Service Deployment: With automated onboarding for new entertainment providers, Beyond ONE ensures customers always have access to the latest content, with new services launching up to 50% faster.
A New Era for Digital Inclusion
The phased rollout, set to begin in Q3 2025, signifies a major milestone in Beyond ONE’s mission to integrate telecommunications with premium content delivery. This partnership not only strengthens Beyond ONE’s position as a digital leader in the Middle East but also sets a new benchmark for digital inclusion in emerging markets.
By leveraging TIMWETECH’s cutting-edge technology, Beyond ONE is creating a more dynamic and inclusive digital landscape, where access to premium content is no longer restricted by outdated financial limitations. As the digital economy in the Middle East continues to evolve, this partnership paves the way for a future where digital experiences are universally accessible—empowering millions through entertainment, education, and technology.
