In this work, a novel multiple input multiple output (MIMO) array antenna system with a large bandwidth and high gain has been simulated, analyzed, fabricated, and measured. The proposed antenna is structured in [Formula: see text] patch configuration along with a cross shaped ground plane loaded with four square and one circular shaped defect. The projected antenna occupies a total size of [Formula: see text]. Several slots in an elliptic form have been added to the patches to achieve the required results in terms of wide bandwidth and high gain. The MIMO antenna array is fabricated and experimentally tested to confirm the simulation results. The suggested MIMO array antenna offers an impedance bandwidth of 22[Formula: see text]GHz covering 22–44[Formula: see text]GHz wide range of frequencies with a high peak gain of 17[Formula: see text]dBi at 38[Formula: see text]GHz. The designed MIMO antenna offers superior diversity performance and it supports several 5G NR bands n257/n258/n259/n260/n261 in the mm-wave spectrum. The suggested MIMO antenna supports 5G application bands that are deployed in UK, USA, China, Europe, Canada, India, and Europe.