• FAB becomes first UAE bank to implement state-of-the-art IoT smart building system across its portfolio

Etisalat Digital and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) today announced a strategic partnership to deploy a cloud-based IoT Smart Building solution, providing FAB ‘anytime anywhere’ access and ease of operations across its entire portfolio.

This is the first deployment of a portfolio-wide IoT smart-building management system for any of the UAE banks. The IoT solution – to be implemented across FAB’s buildings and data centre – meets the bank’s requirements to integrate the existing legacy system into a state-of-the-art IOT platform, built and hosted in the Etisalat Cloud. It includes a series of software applications and dashboards addressing alarms, fault detection, predictive analysis and centralised monitoring.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are honoured to collaborate with FAB, the UAE's largest bank, to implement our Urban Intelligence solutions. By utilising our cloud-based IoT Smart Building Platform, all assets and systems within FAB’s buildings will be integrated and centralised into a single platform, providing ‘anytime anywhere’ access and ease of operations across its entire portfolio. This facilitates efficiency in maintenance and operations and reduces utility spend when operated by a team of energy engineers and specialists from our 24/7 IOT command centre.”

Banks own multiple buildings and also operate branches across the country, which require extensive facilities management, maintenance and operations. Etisalat Digital’s Urban Intelligence solutions and IoT platform enables advanced and predictive analytics, which in turn provides unique insights into the buildings operations and empowers a truly smart facilities portfolio.

Vikas Anand, Executive Vice President and Head of Group Operations, First Abu Dhabi Bank, said: “Technology is a proven differentiator for FAB, and once again the bank is delighted to be a pioneer across the UAE’s banking industry. Customers and businesses are increasingly expecting ‘anytime anywhere’ access and ease of operations across all elements of their life. It’s only apt then that the UAE’s largest bank embraces a cloud-based IoT Smart Building solution befitting the standards that our business and customers require. We are honoured to collaborate with Etisalat, one of the world’s leading telecom groups – and, like us, immensely proud of its Abu Dhabi roots – to implement its Urban Intelligence solutions. We look forward to a strong and successful relationship in this regard.”

• Etisalat Digital hosted Firstpass during GITEX 2020
• Firstpass will be offered to hospitals in the region

Etisalat Digital today announced that it has partnered with Vectramind, a global healthcare and communications technology firm, to offer the Firstpass platform to its customers in the region. This is the first time that Etisalat Digital Healthcare will be positioning this solution under its portfolio.

At this year’s GITEX Technology Week, Etisalat Digital hosted Firstpass, a unified patient experience platform for hospitals that helps bring about better insights to customers on their hospital operations, improve patient experience, do better capacity planning, and reduce no-shows to appointments. The solution will be offered to hospitals in the region, starting with UAE and then expanding to Saudi Arabia and other jurisdictions.

Powered by Artificial Intelligence and machine learning algorithms, Firstpass anticipates patient inflows and wait times at every touchpoint and intelligently reroutes patients, streamlining the processes to optimise every moving part in the patient journey. Firstpass allows patients to have instant access to answers through 24/7 chatbots and a personalised information portal. In addition, it keeps patients in the loop with any scheduling shifts or updates via real-time communications and notifications.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is pleased to partner with Vectramind to offer the Firstpass solution in the region, starting with the UAE and later expanding to Saudi Arabia and other jurisdictions. At Etisalat, we aim to improve people's lives by use of digital health technologies. We have developed a comprehensive set of healthcare solutions to support the UAE national agenda to achieve a world-class healthcare system that is aligned with Etisalat's strategy of 'Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies'.”

Dr Murali Krishna Vakalapudi, Founder and CEO of Vectramind, said: “Vectramind aims to optimise the 4 Ps, namely patient, people, provider and productivity, with our flagship product Firstpass, and we are happy to team up with Etisalat Digital Healthcare team and offer this to their clients. This new relationship will bring to all of Etisalat’s clients a tool for enhancing patient experience and productivity across the care continuum.”

Under the terms of the MoU, Etisalat and Vectramind will collaborate and discuss opportunities that may be jointly pursued in the areas of patient experience and the Firstpass product.

• Digital transformation in HR aims to empower employees and enhance their experience

Etisalat today announced a new initiative that aims to empower employees with Blockchain-powered digital HR credentials, becoming the first to implement this cutting edge digital technology in the region.

Implemented in partnership with Chaintrail.com, Etisalat is providing lifetime access to all HR letters, empowering employees with tamper-proof data at their fingertips. The objective of the blockchain implementation is to ensure all employees can generate, access and utilise credentials 24/7 and 365 days, while credential verifiers can do the same without any dependence on manual intervention.

Dena Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Etisalat, said: “The future of work is here. Our world changed in 2020 and Etisalat’s overall strategy to ‘Drive the Digital Future to Empower Societies’ has never been more important. Making this digital future a reality and bringing the technologies of the future to all our customers across our markets unites and fuels us. The HR team is focused on bringing that reality within Etisalat to empower our employees, increase engagement, organisational efficiency, and create an incredible employee experience.”

“Implementing Blockchain technology in HR ensures employee data is under their control and is secure and accessible anytime, anywhere. Deploying these technologies efficiently and responsibly across our communities and within our organisation is a top priority. Etisalat has some of the most talented and innovative minds in AI, Robotics, Blockchain and other technologies and as our society continues to transform digitally, we will continue to focus our efforts on these capabilities as part of our recruitment and talent strategy in 2021 and beyond.”

This is a classic example of how Etisalat is implementing and benefiting from Blockchain on top of helping government and private organisations on the adoption of this emergjng technology, such as in the blockchain trade finance platform UAE Trade Connect or the ‘Shahada’ Blockchain platform for digitising education certificates.

In addition to Blockchain, Etisalat HR has also soft launched an ‘HR Virtual Assistant’, a chatbot equipped with a complete set of FAQs and HR policies. In the next phase, ‘HR Virtual Assistant’ will be enhanced with a comprehensive interface for all Etisalat employees and will serve as an omnichannel in providing all HR services such as applying for leave and claims, requesting letters and other employee-related requests.

Etisalat has also successfully implemented Robotic Process Automation (RPA) into HR processes, enabling HR teams to streamline processes resulting in faster and more accurate data or request verification. Some of the RPAs verify educational claim, sick leave and business travel as well as job postings.

On the learning front, Etisalat offers iQra, a mobile first, AI powered learning platform, available for all employees and offers the highest quality digital learning from any device, anywhere they are based.

In line with UAE’s paperless initiative and strategy, reward and recognition certificates are automated and digitised this year, eliminating unnecessary delays on arranging hard copy certificates. The digital certificates such as Monthly Excellence, Outstanding Project Contribution Award and Long Service Award are instantly generated and emailed to employees.

• Business First Plus and Business Xtreme plans with Easy Prepaid, “carryforward” and many more distinct features tailored to suit all business needs
• All mobile business plans brought to you by Etisalat, the world’s fastest mobile network provider

Etisalat today announced various Mobile Propositions, a plethora of business postpaid mobile plans meticulously designed to suit the needs of its business customers.

Business mobile plans such as Business First Plus, Business Xtreme, and the Easy Prepaid feature, along with exclusive online mobile plans, address the needs of business customers from the usage behaviour and pricing point perspective, and cater to the convenience of business customers.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, Small and Medium Business, Etisalat, said: “At Etisalat, it is our constant endeavour to empower businesses by providing our customers with different business mobile plans which fit their particular requirements, allowing them to enjoy best in class services at great value. ‘Etisalat Business Mobile Plans’ reinforce our commitment to deliver value propositions that address our customers’ varying needs, especially amidst the current global phenomenon. With Etisalat being recognised as the fastest mobile network provider globally by Ookla® Speedtest® in 2020, our business customers are assured of reliability, speed and superior performance.”

Etisalat is offering budget-conscious customers the Business First Plus postpaid plan, starting from AED110 a month With a carry-forward feature, business customers are able to roll over unused minutes to the next month and enjoy the benefit of any unused allowance.

Customers in search of a stress-free plan complete with unlimited national and international minutes can select Etisalat’s Business Xtreme. In addition, they can stay constantly connected with yearly extra free bonus allowances, and choose from a selection of international minutes, local minutes, or free data allocations when subscribing to either Business First Plus or Business Xtreme for one year.

‘Easy Prepaid’ is an innovative feature that provides a separate prepaid account on top of an existing postpaid number. Hence, employees can seamlessly switch between their business postpaid account and a personal prepaid account enabling them to make personal calls at their own expense using their existing business mobile plans, and not be limited to their employer’s allocated allowance. For instance, an employee can use a prepaid account – with the same number – when he or she reaches the maximum allowance given by the company. In addition, employees can add on plenty of services like roaming voice minutes, local and international data and SMS.

• Enables moving workloads securely and privately to the cloud
• Businesses to experience high speed, low latency & dedicated connectivity

Etisalat today announced it has joined the AWS Direct Connect Service Delivery Programme to offer fast, private, and secure connectivity for accessing AWS cloud services. This enables Etisalat’s customers to accelerate adoption of AWS cloud solutions by using high performance and secure direct connectivity, providing customers with more choice in line with Etisalat’s multi-cloud strategy.

As an AWS Consulting Partner, Etisalat will support customers in their journey to move to the AWS cloud by delivering high-speed, dedicated connectivity, ensuring low- latency, consistent network experience, and robust security for customers leading to high performance levels and availability.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat said: “We are proud to be partnering with AWS to become the first telco in the UAE to offer cutting edge cloud connectivity solutions to all our customers. Etisalat’s expertise with AWS services will help customers in building a hybrid cloud environment. This is also a testimony to Etisalat’s commitment to its vision of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’ and supporting all customers in their digital journey.”

Zubin Chagpar, Head of Middle East and Africa, Public Sector, AWS said: “We welcome Etisalat to the AWS Direct Connect Service Delivery Programme. As a leading telco in the region, this creates more opportunities to help organisations in the UAE to accelerate their digital transformation by migrating critical applications even faster to AWS. We look forward to continuing to work with Etisalat to bring more solutions that enable fast and secure cloud adoption.”

AWS is enabling scalable, flexible, and cost-effective cloud solutions from startups to global enterprises. To support the seamless integration and deployment of these solutions, AWS established the AWS Service Delivery Programme to help customers identify AWS Consulting Partners with deep experience delivering specific AWS services.

• Demonstrations on transport, retail, healthcare, education, fashion and entertainment truly reflect Etisalat’s GITEX 2020 theme ‘Empowering the Digital Future and Beyond’
• Flying taxi, autonomous flying car, hybrid sports car, and a futuristic electric motorcycle a major hit among tech enthusiasts
• ‘Technology for Good’ showcases transformative technologies to enhance the lives of People of Determination

Etisalat successfully concluded its participation at GITEX Technology Week 2020 – the region’s only face-to-face technology event of the year - which saw the convergence of 5G, AI, big data and IoT - under the theme ‘Empowering the Digital Future and Beyond’.

Visitors experienced the future of mobility, retail, healthcare and use of technologies such as robotics, AI, virtual reality, analytics across these verticals with a profound and positive impact on the different segments of the society.

The event also witnessed several strategic partnerships of Etisalat with world-famous industry names and government entities, and the launch of EtisalatAtGitex Live, a virtual channel which enabled tech enthusiasts to explore all the digital innovations on the stand, hear from Etisalat experts and get first-hand experience of the technologies reshaping key industries.

Making their debut on Etisalat’s stand this year were demonstrations on transport, retail, healthcare, education, fashion and entertainment. In ‘Future Transport’, Etisalat took visitors on a journey and the possibilities of the future mobility with 5G connectivity in commercial and regional as well as inter-regional aerial transport. The all-electric, highly automated and fully connected BMW Vision iNEXT, and BMW Vision DC Roadster, a futuristic electric motorcycle a major step into the full-size electric two-wheel segment, were an instant hit.

Certified showstoppers were the taxi SA-1, an electric flying taxi developed by Hyundai with Uber; AirCar, an autonomous all-electric human carrying flying car; the world’s fastest autonomous delivery drone by German drone maker Wingcopter; Rinspeed’s MetroSnap, an innovative autonomous driving concept; and the Park Rover, an autonomous pod designed to be part of a complete mobility system ecosystem integrated with a mobile app and a cloud service.

Healthcare and assistive technologies on the stand provided insights into how technology can transform this sector with cloud, IoT, M2M, AI, blockchain and state-of-the-art connectivity including 5G, with innovative and cutting-edge healthcare solutions from all around the globe.

‘Technology for Good’ demonstrations featuring transformative technologies included a self-driving electric wheelchair; the world's first medically approved 3D-printed prosthetic arm called Hero Arm; and NuEyes E2, a removable visual prosthetic that helps the visually impaired see again while keeping their hands free. Other showcases included the Sound Shirt that allows the deaf to “feel” music on their skin; frictionless retail solutions for the smart pharmacy store; and 3D medically approved technologies.

Just like previous years, Etisalat brought the best in the world of robotics to its stand. Humanoids Adran and Jen spoke and interacted with visitors, while innovative robots from MELTIN – MELTIN Arm and MELTIN-Z performed power-varied actions.

Etisalat’s stand also featured advanced solutions and services to support education during COVID times such as a demo-tutoring platform, an AI-based access control and students’ attendance system, an AI-powered solution measures and tracks students’ attention, focus and mental performance. Two industry-related COVID-19 solutions on display were the Connected Jobsite using wearables and AR-VR powered-solutions for predictive maintenance and remote operations.

Other technology showcases were smart retail highlighting checkout solutions, the F&B section, connected fashion, and a retail dashboard. At the LG ThinQ Smart Home on Etisalat’s stand, attendees witnessed firsthand how a seamless, connected smart home can be achieved – harnessing the power of Etisalat’s Wi-Fi technology.

• Rewards Exchange empowers customers with a one stop shop to manage their loyalty memberships & exchanging points or rewards in real-time
• GEMS Rewards is the first loyalty programme to join

Etisalat today announced that Smiles launched the UAE’s first ever Rewards Exchange powered by blockchain, facilitating fast, seamless and secure points exchange from a single platform to enhance customer experience.

The launch was held during the 40th GITEX Technology Week taking place from 6th to 10th December 2020 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Smiles members can now link their other loyalty programmes to Smiles by adding their membership details on the Rewards Exchange page on the Smiles app. Currently the Smiles’ Rewards Exchange is the only blockchain-powered rewards exchange that can onboard multiple programmes and allow the flexibility of exchanging points or rewards from one programme to any other programme in real-time.

Under Rewards Exchange, Smiles customers can look forward to a number of benefits such as the ability to add loyalty memberships on one app, track all loyalty points in real time, exchange points with any programme within the Rewards Exchange network in real-time, and access an expanded marketplace for points redemption. More importantly, members can avoid losing their hard-earned points due to expiry as they convert them to their most preferred loyalty programme.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “At Etisalat, we are committed to providing top-notch benefits and bringing in customer-centric innovations that focus on fulfilling our customers’ needs. We are delighted to launch Rewards Exchange on Smiles, the first Internet of Loyalties in the UAE powered by blockchain, which allows customers to earn and redeem points and maximise their savings by exchanging points with GEMS Rewards, as well as other loyalty programmes that will be integrated with Smiles in the near future.”

GEMS Rewards, an exclusive rewards programme designed for GEMS Education’s community of students, parents and staff, is the first loyalty programme to join Smiles’ Rewards Exchange. As one of the largest private education providers in the country, GEMS’ exclusive rewards programme is accessed by 100,000+ families of parents and faculty members across 43 schools in the UAE and facilitates a host of lifestyle and retail opportunities through thousands of family-focused offers and benefits, as well as savings.

Smiles members can exchange their Smiles points into GEMS Rewards points in multiples of 7,500 Smiles points, equivalent to 500 GEMS points, and pay for their children’s tuition fees, school transport, and other education fees. GEMS Rewards members can convert their GEMS points into Smiles points in multiples of 500 GEMS points, equivalent to 3,000 Smiles points, and enjoy a wide range of daily deals and lifestyle rewards.

Smiles, one of the largest lifestyle engagement programmes in the UAE, has more than 2.2 million customers on-boarded on the Smiles mobile app and 1,000+ participating brands. Smiles offers everyday savings to its members through earn and redemption of Smiles points for Etisalat, partner products and services as well as ‘Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ and other discount offers at over 3,000 outlets, on entertainment, shopping, dining, travel, services and wellness experience.

• Healthcare section provides an insight into how technologies can transform the healthcare sector
• ‘Technology for good’ showcase include a self-driving electric wheelchair, world’s medically approved 3D printed bionic arm & a removable visual prosthetic

Etisalat is demonstrating innovative healthcare solutions at GITEX Technology Week, with a major focus on ‘technology for good', highlighting transformative technologies aimed at enhancing the lives of People of Determination.

Etisalat’s mission is to constantly create a new care delivery model, leveraging Etisalat’s core assets such as big data, IoT, AI, blockchain and other technologies to improve patients’ experience and efficiencies for customers.

The healthcare section provides an insight into how technology can transform this sector with the cloud, IoT, M2M, AI, blockchain and state-of-the-art technology including with 5G, with cutting-edge healthcare solutions from around the world. The solutions follow a journey from health prevention, early diagnosis, timely treatment and care, health monitoring to patient empowerment and engagement.

Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat envisions its technology as an enabler to transform the healthcare sector and improve people’s lives using digital health technologies. When it comes to People of Determination, Etisalat has endeavoured to enrich their user experience by providing them with various services and means of support in line with our strategy of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies’.”

A self-driving electric wheelchair, PiiMO, is capable of independently detecting, avoiding people and obstacles on the way to their destination. The fully autonomous wheelchair is capable to go anywhere and anytime. Hero Arm is the world's first medically approved 3D-printed prosthetic arm, with multi-grip functionality and empowering aesthetics. Another example of ‘Technology for Good’ is NuEyes E2, a removable visual prosthetic that helps the visually impaired see again while keeping their hands free.

The Aimbot robot from ZoraBots is one of the best robotic solutions to address the current threat of COVID-19. It is an indoor intelligent and autonomous anti-epidemic robot designed and built for virus prevention. Equipped with functional modules and multiple sensors, it navigates autonomously, interacts with people, measures body temperature, detects improperly protected individuals and automatically sprays disinfectant in indoor space.

Also on display at the healthcare section is the first unmanned pharmacy store built on computer vision, machine learning, and sensor-fusion technologies. Consumers can scan a WeChat or Alipay code to enter the store, take goods, and leave while payments are completed automatically.

At the retail section, visitors can check out the Sound Shirt that slips on like a jacket allowing the deaf to “feel” music on their skin. The innovative shirt delivers a tactile experience where the hearing impaired can experience a live concert in a new, immersive way.

• Solutions and services at GITEX 2020 address COVID-19 pandemic challenges
• On display at the education booth are a demo-tutoring platform, AI-based access control & attendance system, mental performance solutions
• Other solutions are predictive maintenance & remote operations as well as Connected Jobsite using wearables

Etisalat is showcasing at GITEX Technology Week 2020 advanced solutions and services to support education and industries amid challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic has led to many significant changes in education thus disrupting traditional learning methods and now distance learning has become the norm. COVID-19 has required all industries to rethink their business models and accelerated their digital transformation.

Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President, Government Sales, Etisalat, said: “During this unprecedented period that has challenged both health and the economy, Etisalat has taken many steps to ensure that its network, services and teams are well equipped to support its customers. At this year’s GITEX, Etisalat is demonstrating a wide range of advanced solutions for enhanced distance learning and remote working in line with its strategy of 'Driving the digital future to empower societies'.”

A demo-tutoring platform, shown on an LCD screen, which also works with tablets, helps teachers and tutors interact with students. This solution has real-time annotations, enhance interactions, shares resources and has an AI tool for search-based learning. The National Tutoring Platform is a tool for scheduling tutoring sessions with features such as a live session notebook and personalised revision library.

GITEX attendees can also check out the AI-based access control and students’ attendance system. Face readers have been set up at the booth linked to the attendance server as well as to an existing camera to detect the faces of active and non-active students.

An AI-powered solution measures and tracks students’ attention, focus and mental performance. This is the perfect solution to detect if children are focusing or not and understand disabilities.

At Etisalat’s stand this GITEX, the Connected Jobsite solution consists of an ecosystem of devices, ranging from head mounted device to wearables and applications. The objective is to digitise time and attendance, improve site safety, and to measure productivity and cost matrices. This is especially relevant during post-COVID-19.

As for predictive maintenance and remote operations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality-powered solutions are offering the capability to reduce downtime periods in the factory and avoid impacts of technicians on field operations.

• BMW Vision iNEXT and BMW Vision DC Roadster showcase the future of autonomous driving
• Real show-stoppers include Hyundai’s SA-1 flying taxi developed with Uber, AirCar flying car, Wingcopter’s delivery drone & Rinspeed’s MetroSnap

Etisalat is pushing the boundaries of innovation at the 40th edition of GITEX Technology Week, as it takes everyone on a journey of immense possibilities in the future of mobility and retail with the transformative power of 5G and futuristic technologies.

This year at GITEX, Etisalat is introducing new mobility segments along with 5G connectivity in commercial and regional as well as inter-regional aerial transport. This in line with Etisalat’s continuous efforts to boost the Dubai Government’s strategy to raise the share of autonomous transport to as much as 25 percent of the total transportation in the emirate by 2030.

Saeed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President, Mobile Network, Etisalat, said: “5G stands out as a game changer with rich potential, an evolution that would elevate services, performance, and enablement. It is in line with UAE’s digital vision, market trends and Etisalat’s long-term strategy of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’. At this year’s GITEX, 5G continues to take centrestage at Etisalat’s stand as we present connected and autonomous vehicles reflecting the shifting mobility preferences that appear to be reshaping the future of mobility.”

Making a grand entrance at GITEX this year are the all-electric, highly automated and fully connected BMW Vision iNEXT, and BMW Vision DC Roadster, a futuristic electric motorcycle a major step into the full-size electric two-wheel segment. Etisalat has also partnered with BMW to provide the eSIM platform, connecting wirelessly with ConnectedDrive vehicles, providing customers an enhanced driving experience.

Taking off from Etisalat’s stand is the taxi SA-1, an electric flying taxi developed by Hyundai with Uber. This fully electric car flies a distance up to 60 miles at an altitude of 1,000 to 2,000 feet. With 5G, this is a great use case that can enjoy the benefits of the ultra-low latency and high speeds of this superior network.

AirCar, an autonomous all-electric human carrying flying car, is taking private autonomous transportation to another level. The flying car can be charged by 80 percent in 15 minutes, enough to fly from one side to another in most cities.

The world’s fastest autonomous delivery drone by German drone maker Wingcopter is making its presence for the first time at the Etisalat’s stand. This futuristic concept will set a benchmark for the logistics industry.

Another showstopper at the Etisalat’s stand is Rinspeed’s MetroSnap, an innovative autonomous driving concept. This futuristic modular showcase can be used as a sharing shuttle for transportation and delivery - a perfect ‘Grab and Go’ experience along with facial recognition and payment solutions enabled by a delivery mobile app.

The Park Rover, an autonomous pod that takes tourists from point A to B, is designed to be part of a complete mobility system ecosystem integrated with a mobile app and a cloud service. It lets visitors summon the Park Rover and pay for it directly from the app itself.

On the smart retail front, Etisalat is showcasing advanced use cases of artificial intelligence, machine learning and computer vision in the form of innovative solution for retail businesses. The smart retail showcase includes a grocery smart checkout solutions, F&B section, life style/connected fashion and a retail dashboard.

The world’s first robotic kitchen, created by Moley, comprises two robotic arms in a specially designed kitchen, which includes a stovetop, utensils and a sink. The device is able to reproduce the movements of a human chef in order to create a meal from scratch.

Another showcase is Grand Connect’s retail back office that is a connected IoT based ecosystem of hardware and software comprising of ‘smart dressing rooms’, ‘smart staffing’, and ‘smart digital signage’.

At the LG ThinQ Smart Home on Etisalat’s stand, the experience is enabled with LG’s intelligent lifestyle technology and its smart home appliances controlled using a smartphone.

Tonal, the world's most intelligent home gym and personal trainer, uses AI to learn from the user’s body and tracks progress in real-time to take the guesswork out of strength training.

In yet another milestone in the 5G journey, Etisalat has achieved the world’s fastest 5G download speed of 9.1 Gigabits per second.

The throughput has been achieved by aggregating multiple commercial spectrum band of n78(3.5GHz), n41(2.6GHz) and millimeter wave n258(26 GHz). This was accomplished through a prototype 5G device that aggregates all three bands.

Saeed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President, Mobile Network, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to announce that Etisalat UAE has achieved unprecedented 9.1 Gbps 5G network speed. This 5G ultra-wideband game-changing download speed is the fastest in the world. We at Etisalat always strive to meet the ever-increasing bandwidth demand from diverse needs of customers, businesses, automation, and gaming.

“Today’s landmark announcement is a result of Etisalat’s efforts in building a robust 5G network, and 9.1 Gbps is truly a huge leap forward in the 5G era to offer a speed 30 times faster than a 4G average throughput. This will have a significant and profound change on individuals, industries, society and the economy, transforming how we live and work.”

Etisalat has led the telecom sector and in the region with the deployment of the 5G network setting a major benchmark in the industry by becoming the first telco in MENA in May 2018 to launch the commercial 5G network providing fixed wireless service in the UAE. This was followed by another major substantial breakthrough in its 5G journey by connecting and partnering with Expo 2020 as the first major commercial customer in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region to access 5G services.

In May 2019, Etisalat was the first telecom operator in MENA to enable its customers to experience the power of the 5G network and release the first 5G handset before many others. Etisalat also became the first telco in MENA to provide indoor 5G coverage in selected buildings in the country.

Etisalat’s mobile network was recently recognised by Ookla as the fastest in the world showcasing high speeds all throughout this year. UAE network ranked with the fastest mobile download speed worldwide in January, March and July 2020. Etisalat is also the winner of Ookla’s Speedtest Awards for fastest fixed broadband network in Q3-Q4 2019 and was recognised in the same year as the leading operator for fastest mobile and broadband network. With a download speed of 115.89 mbps and an overall ranking in the ‘Speed Score’ at 98.78, Etisalat is the only operator globally to rank higher than 90 as per Ookla Speedtest data.

• Convergence of 5G, AI, big data and IoT at the global technology show
• Demos making their presence for the first time globally in transport, retail, healthcare, education, fashion & entertainment

Etisalat today welcomed all visitors this year at GITEX Technology Week 2020 to witness the convergence of 5G, AI, big data and IoT with digital showcases that will take technological innovations to a new height and bring transformation in every industry and the lives of customers from all walks of life.

Dr Ahmed Bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President at Etisalat, who took the media on a tour of Etisalat’s stand, said: “Etisalat’s presence at GITEX this year signifies the increasing relevance technology and modern telecommunication services play in our lives and especially during the pandemic. All the solutions present on the Etisalat stand provides visitors an insight on the positive impact futuristic technologies will have in business, entertainment, education and all segments of the society. The focus this year will continue to be bringing together disruptive technology solutions from across verticals aimed to empower every segment of the society.”

The event's main focus will be highlighting a new era of communication in the region and globally encompassing 5G solutions and technologies enabling connectivity solutions for the future. Visitors will experience the future of mobility, retail, healthcare and use of technologies like robotics, AI, virtual reality, analytics across these verticals with a profound and positive impact on the different segments of the society.

In ‘Future Transport’ Etisalat will take you on a journey and the possibilities in future mobility with 5G connectivity in commercial and regional as well as inter-regional aerial transport. With 5G and high latency, the landscape of mobility is radically going to change with the converging of technologies. There are innovations from leading global technology leaders like Hyundai’s Uber Taxi to private autonomous all-electric human carrying Aircar also showcasing industry stalwarts like BMW’s futuristic concept in mobility.

Healthcare and assistive technologies on the stand provide insights on how technology can transform this sector with cloud, IoT, M2M, AI, blockchain and state-of-the-art connectivity including 5G, with innovative and cutting-edge healthcare solutions from all around the globe. Autonomous and visual technologies for the differently-abled, frictionless retail solutions for the smart pharmacy store and 3D medically approved technologies make a presence on the stand.

The other showcases that are a standout this year are mainly robotics with humanoids Jen and Adran interacting with visitors, future of e-learning during COVID times, smart retail highlighting checkout solutions, F&B section, connected fashion and a retail dashboard. Smart Home also makes a presence with LG’s ThinQ technology and Tonal Gym. For business and industry solutions highlight how enterprises can improve efficiency while working from home at the same time remaining connected.

The stand showcases how digital technologies and solutions in the future, enabled by Etisalat’s robust network, that will work in tandem with the customers’ ever-evolving lifestyle and the needs of corporate industries, including businesses, transportation, healthcare, education and many more.

Etisalat will offer a glimpse of the exciting future through a range of advanced solutions and concepts, from robotics to digital applications and virtual reality experiences, all these can be experienced firsthand in Etisalat’s stand at Za’beel Hall of Dubai World Trade Centre.

GITEX Technology Week 2020 brings technology leaders and stakeholders from across the globe to share their experiences in innovation set to transform every industry. The global event will set the pace for the region to kick start industry events and activities in the region and around the world.

• New channel to broadcast the much anticipated match of boxing legends Mike Tyson & Roy Jones Jr
• 4.2 million action sports fans in UAE to enjoy benefits of first regional MMA fighting channel

Abu Dhabi Sports, one of the most watched sports channels in the Arab world, today announced the launch of ‘Abu Dhabi (AD) Fight’, the first Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighting channel in the region. To be aired via eLife by Etisalat, the new channel will allow sports fans in the UAE access to celebrity athletes, regional and global events, in addition to a range of exclusive content in both English and Arabic.

As part of the official channel launch the much anticipated boxing match between legends Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr will be telecast on Sunday, 29th November, with full coverage starting at 6am and the main fight expected to start at 8am (UAE time).

AD Fight will offer a range of content for the 4.2 million action sports fans in the country.* Avid viewers can enjoy global MMA content from UFC and Brave Combat Federation, as well as regional content from UAE warriors and Jiu Jitsu.

UFC content will include 12 numbered fights, 36 fight nights, as well as a wide range of UFC athletes like the Russian professional martial artist Khabib Nurmagomedov and Irish MMA fighter and boxer Conor McGregor. The Abu Dhabi showdown week (ADSW), that usually hosts the biggest fights every year, will also be available.

eLife customers can subscribe to the Abu Dhabi Fight Channel for AED 30/month directly from their set top box by going to channel 705 and following the subscription process with a 3-month minimum commitment.

Technology and telecom play a major role in accelerating towards a digital economy powered by 5G, IoT and cloud positively impacting every aspect of the society by building an advanced infrastructure fostering an innovative ecosystem and encouraging collaboration, highlighted Hatem Bamatraf, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat International.

Bamatraf participated in a panel discussion organised by SAMENA Telecom Council titled ‘Accelerating a Sustainable Digital Economy’. His session focused on achieving consensus on modeling the digital economy for the next decade. The other key panelists in the discussion included other senior leaders from GSMA, World Economic Forum, Saudi Arabia and Africa.

“In the current pandemic all companies have accelerated their efforts to digital transformation by identifying gaps that need to be addressed touching all aspects of the business, network and technology infrastructure. As an industry, policy makers and regulators need to support this transition to the digital economy by implementing favourable ICT policies, fast-tracking infrastructure development and fostering digital inclusion. This will improve the socio-economics of the region by sustainably closing the digital divide, and Etisalat was among the first telcos to adopt digital transformation embodied in our strategy ‘driving the digital future to enable societies,” said Bamatraf.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of building the necessary ICT infrastructure, which requires updating existing systems and making policies, such as ‘Cloud First’, defining steps to achieve strategic coordination of multiple stakeholders, making digital economy measureable, integrating the region and create economies of scale for infrastructure investments.

Bocar A. BA, CEO and Board Member SAMENA Telecommunications Council, UAE said: “Today’s event was a success with virtual discussions and keynotes focusing on the acceleration of the digital economy gathering leaders and regulators from the telecom industry encouraging them to work collaboratively during today’s pandemic. I want to thank Etisalat for its support and participation in the panel discussion adding valuable insights and perspectives on such a relevant topic.”

• Frontline professionals will have exclusive offers designed by Etisalat in collaboration with the Frontline Heroes Office
• The exclusive offers aim to help frontline heroes stay connected

Etisalat today announced the launch of its special offers as a token of appreciation for the selflessness and dedication of the UAE’s frontline heroes during this unprecedented period.

The special offers have been curated in collaboration with the Frontline Heroes Office that is working with partners across the UAE to recognise and celebrate frontline professionals who sacrifice and put themselves at risk to protect the people of the UAE. Etisalat’s offers aim to keep frontline heroes connected, allowing them to experience convenience and flexibility as well as enjoy access to a variety of value propositions.

Frontline heroes supporting the UAE’s response to COVID-19 should check with their employers to confirm that they are registered with the Frontline Heroes Office. Alternatively, they can verify if they are eligible by dialing the USSD code #48#. Those registered may visit the nearest Etisalat business centre across the UAE to learn more about the special offers they can avail.

Since its inception, more than 80,000 professionals have been registered with the Frontline Heroes Office, including healthcare practitioners, police, essential service providers, crisis managers, security and emergency service providers, humanitarian agencies, sterilisation personnel and volunteers.

About Frontline Heroes Office
The Frontline Heroes Office, established in July 2020 by Presidential Decree under the Chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces is dedicated to recognizing and caring for those working on the frontline.

The Office is mandated to listen and respond to the challenges and priorities of the UAE’s frontline professionals, implement short-term and long-term solutions to directly address those needs, as well as ensure those who sacrifice and put themselves at risk to protect the people of the UAE are nationally recognized and celebrated. The Frontline Heroes Office will deliver on its mandate through partnerships and collaborations with government entities, the private sector and the wider community across the Emirates through a wide range of initiatives and special programs that directly support frontline heroes.

The Frontline Heroes Office has established a comprehensive national Registry of over 80,000 frontline professionals and volunteers actively protecting the UAE and its residents in the fight against COVID-19. The new Registry is a significant milestone in an initiative to care for and champion those who put themselves on the frontline in service to the people of the UAE.

The Registry was created by the Frontline Heroes Office and collates data from people on the frontline provided directly by entities at the federal and emirate level involved in the pandemic response, including those entities under the umbrella of the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA), and licensed healthcare facilities in every emirate. It covers the full spectrum of UAE citizens and expatriates who have put themselves on the frontline in service to the country, including healthcare practitioners, police, essential service providers, crisis managers, security and emergency service providers, humanitarian agencies, sterilization personnel and volunteers.

For more information, please connect with us on:
Facebook: @frontlineheroesuae
Instagram: @frontlineheroesuae
Website: https://frontlineheroes.ae

Emirates Telecommunications Group Company PJSC – Etisalat Group announces the appointment of its new Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Ms. Dena Ali Al Mansoori 

As Etisalat continues to strengthen its position as a leading world-class telco and ICT Company, we believe in our capabilities and strive to strengthen them further by injecting young, competent, and promising leadership. The appointment of Ms. Dena marks the hiring of the first woman in Etisalat’s C-suite, and surely not the last. This is a testament of our commitment to the principles of gender diversity.

With over 17 years of experience, Ms. Dena is a leading global human resource practitioner with vast experience in leveraging organisational behavior, people science, and AI Technologies, to help organisations make data driven decisions regarding how they attract, hire, promote, engage, and retain top talent. She joins Etisalat as the company steps-up its acceleration of its digitalisation efforts, on both the customer-facing side as well as in its internal processes.

Ms. Dena is the former Chief Human Resources Officer of the Central Bank of the UAE and as of earlier this year, Founder & CEO of her own HR Tech company. She has worked with leading companies across four continents in various industries, including retail, banking, finance, and oil and gas.

She holds an MBA from the University of Strathclyde, Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Finance from Boston University.

• Leaders’ Summit powered by Etisalat’s fixed 5G network

Etisalat chiefs highlighted the importance of investing in the network with the telecom sector undergoing rapid changes globally and digital transformation taking precedence, where Etisalat has proved its leadership by remaining ahead of competition due to its continuous investments in building one of the most advanced networks in the world.

Etisalat, along with telecom leaders participated in Telecom Review Leaders’ Summit, the event powered by Etisalat’s 5G fixed network, blending physical and virtual presence allowing participants to join seamlessly from anywhere in the world.

Hatem Dowidar, Acting CEO, Etisalat Group & CEO, Etisalat International, shared insights on Etisalat’s success story due to its continuous investments in the network achieving a major milestone this year of being ranked the fastest mobile network in the world. This was in line with Etisalat’s vision to ‘Drive the Digital Future to Empower Societies’ to provide innovative and leading digital services to its subscribers and business customers. Dowidar highlighted the importance of transitioning towards the new normal by adapting new business models, and focusing on digital transformation, enabling all sectors to be part of this transformation.

Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Strategy & Corporate Governance Officer, Etisalat Group, participated in the summit focusing on how Etisalat is making a major impact with 5G technologies, and enriching the society and digital economy by adapting to new and revolutionary business models. Al Shamsi highlighted the importance of 5G network laying the foundation for the next generation of telecom services and solutions, and called for enhanced partnerships between the different sectors to explore new opportunities, and provide value added solutions to all segments of the society during the new normal.

The summit also saw the participation of Hatem Bamatraf, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat International, as one of the key speakers at a discussion on telcos making an impact with digital transformation. His session highlighted various issues such as how COVID-19 accelerated digital transformation; network transformation and management; digital transformation of customer experience; and data-driven decision making: capacity, investment, products

Dr Kamal Shehadi, Chief Legal and Regulatory Affairs Officer, Etisalat International, also highlighted the importance of ‘The Era of 5G: Spectrum Allocation’ among the other telecom leaders, and the importance of collaboration with regulatory authorities in a way to ensure providing innovative solutions that uplifts the economy in different countries.

The other senior leaders who participated were Khaled Hegazy, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Etisalat Misr, deliberating on ‘Regulating Data Privacy in a Virtually Connected World’ with other chief executives.

Toni Eid, CEO, Trace Media International highlighted the relevance of the 5G fixed network for the event: “The 14th edition of ‘The Leaders’ Summit’ is the first global blended event to be broadcasted and conducted on a fixed 5G network. I am thankful for Etisalat’s participation and support in making this possible giving all our speakers, panelists and attendees the opportunity to experience the most advanced network in the world. This is a true example of digital innovation and transformation in the network setting- a testimony for the world and positioning UAE on a global map.”

Dr Ahmed Bin Ali, SVP, Corporate Communications, Etisalat Group, said: “This is another great milestone for Etisalat to be able to power this entire event on the fixed 5G network. Etisalat is proud to participate in this prestigious summit that gathers leaders and experts from across markets delivering a platform to exchange expertise, learn on the latest trends in the industry and provide the participants such a unique enriching 5G experience.”

Leaders’ Summit focused on the theme ‘It’s all about Smart Networking’, bringing telecom experts and leaders together on one platform to debate and discuss about future developments in the regional and global telecom industry. The attendees included decision makers from the telecom industry covering all segments in the ecosystem.

• Three winners win prizes worth AED 350,000 to help grow their business
• Hello Business Pitch initiative is aligned with UAE’s strategy of bolstering the SMB segment

The Small and Medium Business (SMB) sector plays a key role in the UAE economy in driving innovation, job creation and disruptive business models. Given the importance of this segment, Etisalat has been working closely with businesses across all sectors to cater to their requirements, ensure a successful a digital journey and facilitate business continuity during these unprecedented times.

Etisalat’s ‘Hello Business Pitch’ is one of Etisalat’s strategic initiatives that aims at supporting entrepreneurs and start-up businesses by providing them with an opportunity to pitch their business ideas in front of an expert panel of judges who will be assessing their business model through the strength of their pitch for a chance to win grand prizes that help in growing their business.

This platform, in its second year, has received an overwhelming response and is gaining popularity among aspiring entrepreneurs.

Hundreds of passionate start-up businesses applied since its launch in December 2019. After an intensive and comprehensive assessment of the applications based on the creativity of the business models, demonstrative scalability, and the ability to effectively portray their potential business growth in a clear and concise way, Etisalat shortlisted 52 candidates who progressed to the latter stages of the competition.

The shortlisted businesses were then invited to pitch their business model online. Twenty-five businesses were selected, who then got into a dedicated training session by Dr Petar Stojanov, Partner, Innovation & Future Strategy at Black, on how to perfect their pitch. Two more pitching sessions were conducted and the jury selected the top three winners, who were announced by Etisalat at a live awards ceremony viewed by the business industry around the globe.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, commented: “Small and medium businesses are a backbone of the UAE economy, accounting for 86 percent of the total private sector workforce and more than 60 percent of the country’s current GDP. This year’s ‘Hello Business Pitch’ has indeed succeeded in attracting high-potential start-ups and harnessing the potential of aspiring entrepreneurs who are bringing innovative ideas to the market. I have witnessed first-hand the thoroughness and the quality of the content of their pitches, and look forward to hearing about their entrepreneurial journey.”

YallaGive won first place for a brilliant pitch and will receive AED150,000. The second place winner Key2enable Assistive Technology will be awarded AED120,000, while App4Legal placed third in the competition and will walk away with AED80,000 for their respective creative pitches.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “It is my pleasure to congratulate the entrants, shortlisted candidates and winners of this year’s ‘Hello Business Pitch’. This competition showed the strength of the UAE’s future business leaders and their passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. Our initiative is in line with Etisalat’s continuous efforts to support SMBs and start-ups in the UAE and position Etisalat as the preferred business partner of choice for SMBs.”

• Three winners win prizes worth AED 350,000 to help grow their business
• Hello Business Pitch initiative is aligned with UAE’s strategy of bolstering the SMB segment

Etisalat announced the top three winners of the second ‘Hello Business Pitch’ competition at a live awards ceremony, giving out prizes worth AED 350,000 to aspiring entrepreneurs and providing a platform to bring their business ideas to reality.

Focusing on innovation, the competition’s second edition received an overwhelming response this year with 52 candidates shortlisted progressing to the latter stages of the competition.

YallaGive won first place for a brilliant business pitch and will receive AED150,000. The second place winner Key2enable Assistive Technology will be awarded AED120,000, while App4Legal placed third in the competition and will walk away with AED80,000 for their respective creative pitches.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, commented: “Small and medium businesses are a backbone of the UAE economy, accounting for 86 percent of the total private sector workforce and more than 60 percent of the country’s current GDP. This year’s ‘Hello Business Pitch’ has indeed succeeded in attracting high-potential start-ups and harnessing the potential of aspiring entrepreneurs who are bringing innovative ideas to the market. I have witnessed first-hand the thoroughness and the quality of the content of their pitches, and look forward to hearing about their entrepreneurial journey.”

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “It is my pleasure to congratulate the entrants, shortlisted candidates and winners of this year’s ‘Hello Business Pitch’. This competition showed the strength of the UAE’s future business leaders and their passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. Our initiative is in line with Etisalat’s continuous efforts to support SMBs and start-ups in the UAE and position Etisalat as the preferred business partner of choice for SMBs.”

The competition launched in December 2019 has gained popularity and got bigger every year. Hundreds of passionate start-up businesses applied, and 52 shortlisted businesses were invited to pitch their business online after an intensive and comprehensive assessment of the applications based on the creativity of the business models, demonstrative scalability, and the ability to effectively portray their potential business growth in a clear and concise way.

Twenty-five businesses were selected and then given a dedicated training session by Dr Petar Stojanov, Partner, Innovation & Future Strategy at Black, on how to perfect their pitch. Two more pitching sessions were conducted and the jury selected the top three winners, who were announced by Etisalat at a live awards ceremony viewed by the business industry around the globe.

• Efforts in building the most advanced network contributed to the country’s international recognition
• UAE network ranked with the fastest mobile download speed worldwide in January, March and July 2020

Ookla, the global leader in fixed broadband and mobile network testing applications, data and analysis today recognised Etisalat for being the fastest mobile network operator worldwide in 2020 providing its subscribers the most superior experience with the fastest mobile speeds from anywhere in the world. This major achievement is a testimony of UAE’s leadership’s vision to transform the country to a digital first and knowledge based economy.

The ranking is based on analysis by Ookla of millions of tests actively initiated by customers across every network to check internet speeds using various applications on web and mobile platforms. The Speedtest Awards™ for top network providers are determined using a ‘Speed Score’ that incorporates a measure of each provider’s network speeds (download and upload) to rank network speed performance.

With a download speed of 115.89 mbps and an overall ranking in the ‘Speed Score’ at 98.78, Etisalat is the only operator globally to rank higher than 90 as per Ookla Speedtest data. Etisalat is also the winner of the Speedtest Awards for both fastest mobile network worldwide in Q1-Q2 and Q2-Q3 in 2020 and fastest fixed broadband network in Q3-Q4 2019.

Hatem Dowidar, Acting CEO, Etisalat Group, said: “This is a milestone achievement and a testament to our relentless efforts towards our strategy and vision to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’. Our corporate strategy has enabled us to consistently push boundaries, by responding swiftly to the global digital advancements and proactively deliver cutting-edge services and solutions to our customers. We will continue to focus on creating the world’s best and leading networks across our markets to deliver long-term value to all our stakeholders.

“Thanks to the vision of our wise leadership in the UAE in positioning the country among the most digitally advanced globally and inspiring us to realise our efforts by delivering world-class networks, infrastructure and innovative services. We are also grateful to the leaders for their continuous support and want to express our gratitude to all our loyal customers for their confidence in driving us to accomplish our goals of driving digital innovations for a better future.”

Doug Suttles, CEO and co-founder of Ookla said: “Today, I am honoured to recognise Etisalat UAE with the fastest mobile network in the world. This is a truly momentous accolade, and one that Etisalat absolutely deserves. Etisalat is at the top of the world in terms of network speed and is officially the world's fastest mobile network. In addition to being awarded as the fastest mobile operator, Etisalat is also recognised with the fastest fixed broadband network in the GCC and Arab region. This is a truly historic and proud moment for the country and Etisalat.

“With everything going digital and online the fast network will help transform the lives of Etisalat subscribers. This is another incredible achievement showcasing the company’s commitment to advancing the UAE and empowering its leadership with a strategic edge in taking one large step closer to realising the UAE Vision 2021 plan and national digital transformation strategy.”

The achievement is significant in current times when the pandemic caused global crisis highlighting the importance of a robust and up-to-date network. Etisalat’s individual efforts in building one of the most advanced networks greatly impacted the country’s overall performance — and as a result the UAE was ranked the fastest country in the world in January, March and July 2020 for average mobile download speed, as reported on the Speedtest Global Index™.

As per Ookla, global networks witnessed an exponential surge in network demand through the pandemic. During this period, it was essential to maintain network performance and quality to support business continuity and ensure consumers had access to essential services as well as continue to remotely work and study from home.

From the beginning Etisalat was always the first in the region to take a lead and launch previous generations of the network mainly 3G, 4G and 5G. As a previous winner of the Speedtest Award™ for fastest mobile network and fastest broadband network in the region for 2019 Etisalat amplified its efforts on improving the mobile network, supporting business continuity in a work-from-home environment, facilitating distance learning and providing entertainment to families at home.

• Customers to experience device’s next-generation capabilities on Etisalat’s robust and reliable 5G network
• With the exclusive ‘Upgrade Anytime’ programme, enjoy the freedom to upgrade your phone after 90 days

Etisalat today announced the availability of the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 in the UAE, introducing a powerful 5G experience, from 23rd October.

The devices will be available at Etisalat retail stores across the UAE. Purchases of the new iPhone devices could also be made via the website www.etisalat.ae or My UAE Etisalat app.

Customers may opt to purchase the new Apple devices through SmartPay and enjoy 12, 18 or 24 months flexible payments. Customers purchasing the new iPhone devices via SmartPay plans can now join the ‘Upgrade Anytime’ programme and enjoy the freedom to upgrade upon completion of 90 days of their subscription. Existing Upgrade anytime program customers who joined the program last year with iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 11 Pro Max, will be eligible to upgrade their devices to the new iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro.

This unique value proposition allows customers to return their devices and get a new one with the option to change the screen size, the color or storage size or installment scheme. Customers can also avail the AppleCare+ service in affordable monthly instalments.

Featuring the most 5G bands on any smartphone, iPhone 12 models offer the broadest 5G coverage worldwide. The newly designed iPhone 12 models feature expansive edge-to-edge Super Retina XDR displays for a brighter, more immersive viewing experience, and a new Ceramic Shield front cover, providing the biggest jump in durability ever on iPhone. The new 5G-ready devices sport the A14 Bionic – the fastest chip in a smartphone - and a new dual-camera system, bringing an unparalleled camera experience that makes it easier than ever to intuitively capture the perfect photograph or video.

A14 Bionic powers every experience on iPhone 12 Pro, and coupled with advanced camera systems, introduces meaningful new computational photography features. The reimagined pro camera systems include an expansive Ultra Wide camera, a Telephoto camera with an even longer focal length on iPhone 12 Pro Max, and new Wide cameras to capture beautiful professional-quality images and video in bright and low-light environments. iPhone 12 Pro models also introduce a new LiDAR Scanner for immersive augmented reality experiences and MagSafe, which offers high-powered wireless charging and an all-new ecosystem of accessories that easily attach to iPhone.

• A Sudanese graphic designer from Ajman won AED250,000 in Etisalat’s Wasel Gifts ‘Mega Prize’ promotion after a draw conducted at Etisalat’s Abu Dhabi headquarters.

Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, today handed over the cheque to Karim Imad Eldin Abdallah Mohamed, 26, who was ecstatic and overwhelmed at winning the mega prize. His name was picked from thousands of prepaid customers who participated in the three-month promotion which commenced in July this year.

Etisalat’s Wasel Gifts ‘Mega Prize’ offered one lucky prepaid customer a chance to win AED 250,000 cash in addition to instant prizes for every recharge of AED30 and above.

New and existing Wasel and WaselGo subscribers were eligible to participate in the summer promotion. For every one dirham of AED30 recharge and above, one lucky winner picked through a draw stood a chance to win a AED250,000 mega prize. More recharges increased one’s chances of winning the life-changing prize. For instance, an AED30 recharge gave a customer 30 chances to win the mega prize.

Prepaid customers may want to stay tuned as more awesome and bigger Wasel Gifts prizes are on the way, including a life-changing cash prize.

Etisalat will offer the new iPhone 12 lineup, including iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12, and iPhone 12 mini, introducing a powerful 5G experience.

With a beautiful all-new design, iPhone 12 models feature unparalleled new camera systems, edge-to-edge Super Retina XDR displays for a more immersive viewing experience, the biggest jump in durability with the Ceramic Shield front cover, and Apple-designed A14 Bionic chip, the fastest chip in a smartphone.

Customers will be able to order iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 beginning on 16th October with availability on 23rd October. Availability for iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 mini coming later. For complete pricing and availability details, please visit https://www.etisalat.ae/en/index.jsp.

• Etisalat today announced it was recognised as ‘Best Regional Wholesale Carrier’ at the 2020 Telecoms World Middle East Awards virtual ceremony. It was shortlisted among top telecom companies for its success in the wholesale business. This marks a record 12th year that Etisalat has won this award.

Commenting on the award, Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are honoured to receive the ‘Best Regional Wholesale Carrier’ award for the 12th year, which highlights Etisalat’s core international network capabilities, reach and commitment to quality as well as the capabilities and success of our SmartHub, our new services, and the strategic partnerships we have formed over the years. This recognition is a testament to Etisalat’s resiliency and continuous and value-focused innovations – a key driver to our success in the wholesale business.”

Over the years, Etisalat has been expanding its global reach through strategic partnerships & investments. Etisalat continued to innovate in 2020 through introducing new services and creative collaborations. It expanded its SmartHub wholesale data centre through inaugurating a new facility in Fujairah in February 2020, while another SmartHub data centre in Dubai is also ready. This expansion makes Etisalat’s SmartHub one of the biggest and the most diversified carrier hotel in MENA.

Etisalat increased its LTE (4G) roaming footprint to around 515 networks, putting the telco in the leading position globally. It launched 5G roaming services with more than 30 operators in various countries.

Etisalat’s Smart Cloud Talk service was launched this year to address the growing demand for virtual interaction and communication capabilities in the enterprise segment based on the cloud.

The virtual awards ceremony, held on 13th October 2020, was part of a two-day Telecoms World Middle East virtual event in Dubai. The winners were chosen by an independent a panel of expert judges assembled by Terrapinn, the organisers of the annual Telecoms World Middle East conference and awards.

• Transformation is key in the new normal with a focus on innovation by building new capabilities and tools that are digitally enabled and are sustainable, said Hatem Bamatraf, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat International, during the Telecoms World Middle East & Carriers World Middle East 2020.

“Etisalat has always thrived and continuously invested in building an advanced network and introducing new services to meet the growing requirements of customers especially in today’s new normal. We are the cusp of this metamorphosis where we are able to deliver uninterrupted services to our customers, provide solutions in an age of social distancing and remote working to enable faster decision making for businesses, minimise human interactions and increase the pace of automation. Thanks to the UAE vision in positioning the country as one of the most competitive nations globally despite the headwinds posed by today’s extraordinary times we continue to realise our digital goals to meet the distinctive needs of all customers,” said Bamatraf.

Bamatraf was a key panelist in the opening CEO keynote panel on ‘Embracing tech transformation in today’s new normal society’.

The two-day conference taking place virtually from 13th to 14th October is among the biggest and most influential telecom events in the region, focusing on the strategies, technologies and big ideas that will be essential for telecoms companies in 2020.

Etisalat chief executives participated in panel discussions and live interactive sessions moderated by global and regional experts in the region. Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer, Etisalat, took part in an insightful panel discussion on ‘Opportunities await the Middle East: capitalising on the geographical advantage of the region and exploring the opportunities that lie ahead.

A multitude of topics were discussed such as exploring the barriers to connectivity; adapting digital mentality and utilising and benefiting from OTTs; improving connectivity and overcoming obstacles in the region; accessing emerging markets in the Middle East for global and regional carriers; and outlining the necessity to keep on top of technological innovation to compete in the region.

Shafika Houcine, Group Director – Digital Channels, Etisalat, participated in a panel on ‘Capitalising on AI: surviving the transition’.

On the event’s second day, Sidheeque Machingal, Senior Director of Carrier & Wholesale Planning, Etisalat, will take part in a fireside chat on ‘Global connectivity: the data race of subsea carriers and big internet giants’, focusing on how subsea cables are impacting the data centre and ecosystems. Topics of discussion include the expected opportunity of security services for carriers; industry collaboration and the next steps; preparing for denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, making carriers vulnerable for attack; and analysing physical security for critical assets.

Meanwhile, Jose L Lopez Villen, Director of Open Innovation and IoT Partnership Programs, will present ‘Corporate and Startups: Models to Collaborate in the Open Innovation System’.

• Campaign seeks to raise dementia awareness and challenge stigma in support of World Alzheimer’s Day
• Etisalat’s Instagram posts ‘disappear’ to depict memory loss and help people remember this day

After setting social media abuzz with a completely blank Instagram page over the weekend, Etisalat today unveiled its campaign in support of a global effort to raise awareness and challenge stigma associated with dementia, in line with its brand direction ‘Together Matters’.

On 21st September each year, World Alzheimer's Day is celebrated across the world. In the lead up to this day, Etisalat archived all its Instagram posts to depict memory loss experienced by people with Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, more than 3,000 Instagram posts were not visible to the public since 18th September, piquing the interest of the media and Instagram followers alike.

Etisalat also released a short video clip to drive home a strong message about remembering those who cannot remember: “Memories disappear with Alzheimer’s. Let us remember this day and those affected by it.”

World Alzheimer’s Day is an international campaign to raise awareness, highlight issues faced by people affected by dementia, and demonstrate how we can overcome them to help people live well with dementia. From previous studies, two out of every three people globally believe there is little or no understanding of dementia in their countries.

People living with dementia worldwide is currently estimated at 50 million, and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year. The total number of people with dementia is projected to reach 82 million in 2030 and 152 million in 2050, according to the World Health Organisation.

• Revolutionary educational solution to create, maintain, share & verify academic credentials
• Working with govt entities and universities to digitally attest and certify qualifications

Etisalat Digital announced today its partnership with Smartworld to exclusively bring Shahada, a tamper-proof digital certificate platform, to all educational institutions in the region.

This revolutionary solution will save time, effort and resources by enabling these institutions to securely issue credentials on blockchain, avoiding forgery of paper-based certificates and creating an educational passport where credentials are easily shared with third parties, who can verify their authenticity seamlessly.

Etisalat Digital is working closely with Smartworld to empower ‘Shahada’ with its market reach, advanced infrastructure in the country and operational capabilities and take it to all schools and universities. The platform was launched in February this year by Smartworld, the UAE’s leading system integrator, and Grape Technology, a UAE blockchain startup.

Shahada is in alignment with both the UAE Blockchain Strategy 2021 and the 50-Year Charter launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President, Government Sales, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to partner with Smartworld to bring Shahada, a secure platform that is a groundbreaking innovation for the educational sector. Etisalat Digital with its capabilities and expertise, utilises disruptive technologies to empower all sectors in UAE and the Middle East. Shahada reinforces our capabilities in blockchain after launching a nationwide platform in collaboration with eight major banks to digitise trade in the finance sector.”

Abdulqader Ali, Chief Executive Officer, Smartworld, said: “Significant synergies will be gained from our partnership with Etisalat Digital and we are excited about the opportunities moving forward. Our ecosystem solution will not only help students, government and educational institutions, but also employers who will experience ease of verification and a reduction of fraud.”

The Shahada platform brings together educational institutions, government entities and other stakeholders on a secure permissioned blockchain platform. It enables ministries to play a regulatory role on the blockchain records, digitally attest and certify credentials issued inside and outside the UAE.

Etisalat subscribers in UAE can now access super-fast speeds on 5G fixed networks from their homes enabling them to stream high bandwidth 4K videos, enjoy cloud based gaming and low latency to meet the accelerated need for immersive technologies such as augmented and virtual reality during the pandemic.

“The deployment of 5G FWA is another major 5G milestone for Etisalat, a result of our continuous efforts in bringing the best in technology and infrastructure for our subscribers in UAE. Today’s announcement is significant as it lays a foundation for 5G use cases to bringing futuristic technologies and solutions in a mature 5G ecosystem. This is only the beginning of the next evolution of fixed wireless technologies and the immense possibilities of innovation for UAE residents and businesses,” said Saeed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President, Mobile Network, Etisalat.

Etisalat 5G FWA CPE (customer premise equipment) will be installed at the subscriber’s residence to be connected wirelessly to the 5G towers broadcasting the wireless signal. The customer connects a WiFi router to the 5G CPE to provide broadband services in a similar way done over fibre.

Etisalat has led the telecom sector and in the region with the deployment of the 5G network setting a major benchmark in the industry by becoming the first telco in MENA in May 2018 to launch the commercial 5G network providing fixed wireless service in the UAE. This was followed by another major substantial breakthrough in its 5G journey by connecting and partnering with Expo 2020 as the first major commercial customer in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region to access 5G services.

In May 2019, Etisalat was the first telecom operator in MENA to enable its customers to experience the power of the 5G network and release the first 5G handset before many others. Etisalat also became the first telco in MENA to provide indoor 5G coverage in selected buildings in the country.

The UAE maintained its Arab and regional leadership in a number of ICT related indicators, according to the Global Innovation Index Report 2020, which included results related to Global Competitiveness indicators for ICT sector.

According to the report, the UAE ranked first on the Arab and regional level in information and communication technologies (ICTs) pillar, ICT access indicator, and ICT use indicator. The UAE also ranked first in the Arab region in Generic top-level domains (gTLDs), and in Country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs) (.ae). This reflects the UAE’s efforts in enforcing the digital transformation embodied by the government’s directions towards being one of the leading countries in the world.

Dr. Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is proud to contribute to the UAE ranking first in a number of ICT indicators in the Global Innovation Index 2020. Etisalat’s philosophy since its inception was to revolutionise the telecom sector while transitioning to the digital era and being well equipped for the future. Etisalat retained ‘The Most Valuable Consumer Brand’ in MENA for the third consecutive year by Brand Finance, while Ookla recognised Etisalat for being the fastest mobile network in MENA and broadband network in GCC, Africa and Arabian region.

“Digital transformation in Etisalat is at the centre of this strategy and leveraging technologies that can help accelerate this transition to the new era. Etisalat became first telco in MENA in May 2018 to launch the commercial 5G network providing fixed wireless service in the UAE, and the first telecom operator in MENA to enable its customers to experience the power of the 5G network and release the first 5G handset before many others.”

UAE is ranked number one for the highest FTTH penetration among all its global counterparts for three years in a row according to the leading industry body FTTH council. UAE also has the highest percentage of mobile internet subscribers, and the highest percentage of internet users per population.

According the Global Knowledge Index 2019, the UAE maintained the number one ranking for percentage of mobile coverage for inhabitants; number one for internet broadband subscriptions; and number one in the Arab world and region in smart government services as per United Nations’ E-government survey in July 2020.

UAE has the fastest mobile internet network in the world, reflecting the advancement witnessed in the ICT sector in the UAE, according to the latest report issued by Ookla on July 2020.

Global unified communication portfolio features best-in-class network reach, carrier grade quality and scalability

Etisalat Carrier & Wholesale announced the launch of ‘Etisalat Smart Cloud Talk’, its unified communications (UC) portfolio in collaboration with leading industry partners supported by its tier 1 global network infrastructure to deliver advanced connectivity and productivity.

Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are delighted to launch ‘Smart CloudTalk’, an agile, secure and cloud based solution beneficial to the carrier community providing them flexibility in managing their communication requirements. This is also in line with Etisalat’s overall commitment to supporting businesses in the country during today’s extraordinary times through solutions and services that facilitate business continuity and efficiency. Smart CloudTalk will enhance collaboration and ensure smooth functioning of the businesses with its remote working capabilities supported by our robust backend capability guaranteeing all our global customers a seamless experience.”

The launch of Etisalat Smart CloudTalk Unified Collaborative services portfolio brings together multiple technology platforms to enable ubiquitous applications and services to integrate with voice and video. This is delivered from the Etisalat cloud and accessible through a rich set of application programming interfaces (API) and software development kits. The work-from-anywhere cloud solution provides unified communications to Etisalat carrier partners and customers to enable remote communication and working.

The service is delivered over a carrier-grade cloud private branch exchange (PBX) replacing the legacy setups. The pay-as-you-go model gives customers the flexibility to work in multi-channel communication environments, minimising upfront investments and focusing on productivity rather than infrastructure.

Etisalat Smart CloudTalk gives users the ease of switching between various devices seamlessly in real-time from any location. The state-of-the-art features such as instant messaging, video conferencing, screen sharing and mobile app, among others, contribute to an elevated user experience leading to better productivity.

Etisalat experienced high demand during the pre-order promotion and is anticipating similar interest following the next-generation device’s official launch

Purchase Galaxy Note20 |20 Ultra (5G) devices with special 5G Smart Pay offer and enjoy the same Smart Pay of the (4G) models

Etisalat today announced that the all-new Samsung Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra are now available for all customers in the UAE.

Developed with the new normal in mind to meet the needs of consumers and complement their dynamic lifestyles, the Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra are innovative devices that empower users to integrate all aspects related to work and play. Besides supporting users in their daily lives, the Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra features and capabilities will optimize time and maximize efficiency on every occasion, bringing new value to smartphone interactions and experiences.

“At Samsung, we are driven by our vision to remain at the forefront of smartphone innovation and reimagine the connected world by combining technology and creativity based on a consumer-centric approach,” said Osman Albora, Head of Mobile Division, Samsung Gulf Electronics.

“Introducing meaningful innovations that provide convenience, make life easier, and deliver cutting-edge experiences is among our top priorities. The initial response we have witnessed across the country and wider region surrounding the Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra has been very encouraging. We are delighted that consumers are finally able to experience the many capabilities of the device that is already an invaluable addition to the Galaxy ecosystem.”

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Commercial Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is thrilled that the Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra will be available for our customers in the UAE. Samsung’s latest flagship devices will be a game-changer in the industry and available for all Etisalat customers in the UAE. With Etisalat's Smart Pay options, we are making it affordable for all customer segments to get their hands on these two highly desired smartphones.”

Etisalat began taking pre-orders for the highly anticipated devices on 5th August. The standalone price of a Galaxy Note20 starts at AED3,549, while a Note20 Ultra begins at AED4,499, available at Etisalat stores and online on Etisalat’s website as well as on the My Etisalat UAE app. The Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra can be purchased with flexible Smart Pay plans on a 12, 18, or 24-month contract starting from only AED154 and AED195, respectively. All prices are VAT inclusive. Etisalat customers may purchase Galaxy Note20 |20 Ultra (5G) devices with special 5G Smart Pay offer and enjoy the same Smart Pay of the (4G) models.

Etisalat customers purchasing the device with a new or existing prepaid account would be eligible to dial *056# and receive one of the following special deal of the day offers: 1GB for 3 months, 3GB for 2 months, or 10GB for 1 month.

Premium in design and elegant in appearance, the Galaxy Note20 has a 6.7 inch screen to offer enhanced immersion, with tremendous visibility indoors and outdoors through the brightest display available on a smartphone today. The device is available in Mystic color options and can fit perfectly in the hand of users as they enjoy their favorite videos and play games. With a fast processor, the Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra can effortlessly facilitate speedy performance and smoother multitasking on every occasion and at any given time, effectively providing the perfect platform for newfound levels of productivity. Moreover, the greatest mobile gaming experiences are also set to be welcomed into a new chapter to ensure more enjoyable viewing and gaming than ever before.

Through Galaxy’s Microsoft partnership and Microsoft 365 integration, consumers will also have the power to work at all times and be more proactive. Users can connect to their PC, transfer and edit files across different devices, and even respond to phone notifications, while using the most advanced S Pen to date, which enables consumers to write with the precision of a real pen – straightening handwriting in the process to keep it neat and tidy. Furthermore, with power that works like that of a computer, enhanced digital experiences are guaranteed through a winning combination of multimedia assets and sleek visual content. The Note20 series' intelligent all-day battery plays an integral role; it will last the entire duration of any given day so consumers have the power they require at all times. But for those seeking peace of mind, 30 minutes worth of charge is sufficient to ensure work endeavors will never be hindered. For more details, please visit www.samsung.com

Special invite to join the global virtual session on UAE’s readiness to counter pandemics

Etisalat today participated in World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) Forum’s special session on UAE focusing on the country’s readiness and resilience for pandemics with its advanced telecom network and infrastructure ready to serve the ‘New Normal’ supporting all consumers and businesses to continue studying and working from home.

Rayyan Alhashmi, Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, Corporate Strategy and Governance, Etisalat joined this global virtual session of the WSIS Forum that represents the world’s largest annual gathering of the ‘ICT for development’ community. This forum being held since 22 June 2020 will continue until 10 September 2020 is co-organised by ITU, UNESCO, UNDP and UNCTAD, in close collaboration with all WSIS action line facilitators.

The focus of the forum is to foster digital transformation and global partnerships with WSIS action lines to achieve sustainable development goals. The event brought together multi-stakeholders, share best practices and develop public/private partnerships to advance these goals. The global event will provide structured opportunities to network, learn and participate in multi-stakeholder discussions and consultations on WSIS implementations.

Two special sessions focused on UAE highlighting projects from various eGovernment projects of various government entities in the country and its readiness to counter pandemics.

Alhashmi shared insights on how the country and the telecom infrastructure are ready to face the ‘New Normal’ with one of the most advanced networks in the world. “During the pandemic, UAE’s government’s leadership and vision showcased the country’s resilience and readiness in dealing with this global crisis. Etisalat supported the government by enabling solutions and services that allowed consumers and businesses to study and work from home in the most efficient manner. This was possible due to our continuous focus on innovation as part of the strategy ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’ embedded within our DNA manifested across the business.”

During the pandemic, Etisalat’s main focus was to support the entire community including business and individuals ensuring its network and services enable business and learning continuity. During the period May-Feb 2020, Etisalat’s network witnessed an increase in traffic of more than 300 percent in communication and collaboration solutions where as in Internet gaming it touched 500 percent. With work and study from home becoming a norm there was a surge in traffic of more than 90 percent in video streaming and social media.

Etisalat worked closely with the Ministry of Education to provide zero rate access to educational URLs and free mobile data for students. There was also free access to the Madrasa platform on eLife and remote learning apps. For the healthcare sector there was a telemedicine platform made available to support hospitals and clinics in providing remote healthcare services. IoT/AI platforms were used for disease containment, AI video analytics including thermal cameras and wearable IoT solutions were among the other advance solutions used for the sector.

Etisalat today announced the launch of a dedicated microsite featuring women’s notable achievements pinned on an interactive virtual UAE map in celebration of Emirati Women’s Day.

Etisalat's emiratiya.ae marks all the locations significant to the pioneering women of the UAE’s past and present, each with a special pin detailing inspiring stories behind their accomplishments.

The founder of ‘Emirati Women's Day’ Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the nation and a champion for gender equality in UAE chose this date each year to coincide with the birth of the General Women’s Union on August 28, 1975. The theme this year focuses on ‘Preparing for the next 50 years; Women are the support of the nation’ in line with the UAE Golden Jubilee coming up next year to celebrate the achievements and milestones of women in the country highlighting the key role they will play in writing the next chapter of the future of UAE.

To celebrate this special occasion and as a tribute to all the Emirati women achievers, Etisalat is inviting citizens and residents to visit emiratiya.ae to place a pin celebrating their global achievements. Nominations can be made with a brief description of their accomplishments and a special pin detailing their rich individual stories. 

They can also browse through the photo and video gallery for interesting information of Emirati women’s accomplishments and share these stories on their social media platforms.

The microsite features interesting facts about Emirati women who have shown inspiring courage and wisdom. Etisalat wants to make sure that each one of them is recognised with a special tab provided to submit stories of Emiratiya achievers right from enterprising entrepreneurs to hometown heroines, with many of them having a chance to appear with their own pin.

• Grow your business with an attractive and engaging website
• Transform your business online via the e-Store free for life from Etisalat Business Edge

Etisalat today announced the launch of e-Store, a free website builder from Etisalat Business Edge enabling Small and Medium Business (SMB) customers to transform their businesses online with no contract obligations – from displaying products online, allowing customers to place orders online to providing customer insights and analytics.

Built with small businesses in mind, e-Store free for life gets their business website up and running through three simple steps: create, design and sell. New and existing customers subscribed to Business Edge and other selected products will avail the service free for life.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “The SMB market is emerging as a sizeable and growing market in the UAE. At Etisalat, we work closely with SMBs and startups by enabling them with the right tools and services to boost their productivity and profitability.

“The successful launch of our e-Store is yet another testament of our efforts to empower small businesses with scalable and tailored advanced solutions to grow their business in line with the UAE government’s commitment to fuel growth in the SMB sector.”

Etisalat’s e-Store is designed to deliver a first-class website experience for SMBs that suit their business needs. They can create a professional-looking website without hiring a web designer as it is packed with 1,000+ free readymade template designs covering more than 80 SMB verticals. Its drag-and-drop interface comes with a photo editor, video clips, free stock images, Google Maps, among other features.

As a fully integrated store, e-Store enables SMBs to sell their products online, manage payments via secured Etisalat payment gateways and other major gateways in the region for seamless payments. Businesses can upload all their products and publish their website within a few minutes, integrate their store setup, categorise their products, secure their payments, set up and manage their store on mobile.

e-Store is also giving our business customers the option to do their own integration with shipping companies for efficient delivery of products and services to their clients. It eliminates operational costs and commission rates, ensuring increased profitability for SMBs. It is user-friendly and works with most devices: computer, iPhone, iPad and most Android phones and tablets.

To find out more about Etisalat’s e-Store for SMBs, please visit etisalat.ae/estore.

• Up to 80% discount on devices and accessories with SmartPay options, up to AED100 cashback for purchases via eWallet
• Get a chance to win AED250,000 and guaranteed prizes every time you recharge AED30 and above

With the 23rd edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) in full swing, Etisalat is celebrating the festival with various discounts on devices, instant Wasel Gifts prizes, a chance to win AED250,000 on prepaid recharges, and amazing cashback rewards.

As a strategic partner, Etisalat is offering up to 80% discount on smartphones, TVs, accessories and gadgets of various brands such as Huawei, Samsung and DJI with Smartpay options of up to 24 months and free delivery for online orders. Purchases of these devices could be made via the website www.etisalat.ae, My UAE Etisalat app, eWallet app, and Etisalat retail stores across the UAE from 9 July to 29 August 2020. Customers get up to AED100 cashback for purchases using the eWallet app.

New and existing Wasel and WaselGo subscribers are eligible for the Wasel Gifts ‘Mega Prize’ promotion, offering one lucky prepaid customer a chance to win AED 250,000 cash in addition to instant prizes for every recharge of AED30 and above.

Prepaid customers who top up AED 30 and above will enjoy instant prizes in the form of data, local or international minutes, bonus credit, Smiles points or others.

The ‘Mega Prize’ promotion does not require any opt-in. The minimum recharge amount is AED 30. Any type of recharge is allowed, except for mobile credit transfer. Subscribers can opt-out by dialing *101*30*2#.

The 23rd edition Dubai Summer Surprises runs from 9 July to 29 August 2020, delivering a diverse and exciting seven weeks of events, sales, deals, and promotions, unlimited entertainment and food and beverage offers.

• Keeping employees safe, connected with customers and moving work forward
• Key priority to support SMBs in their digital transformation journey
• Focused on virtual meetings, secure cloud solutions and flexibility

Today the SMB sector plays an important role in the UAE economy, accounting for 86 percent of the total private sector workforce and more than 60 percent of the country’s current GDP.

Etisalat serves close to 300,000 SMB customers in the country, working closely with them in their digital transformation journey. The relevance of digital innovation and capabilities have gained significance in today’s unprecedented times. As businesses navigate through the challenges posed by the pandemic, Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, Small and Medium Business, Etisalat shares his insights on the unique challenges faced by small and medium businesses (SMBs) in the UAE and what the telco is doing to continuously support them and facilitate business continuity during these unprecedented times.

“Today’s rapidly evolving situation poses unique challenges for everyone, and we understand that businesses are doing everything to ensure the safety of their employees while managing business continuity,” says Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, Small and Medium Businesses at Etisalat.

“At Etisalat, it is our constant endeavor to ensure we support our SMB customers with their business needs and make every effort to simplify their lives even during these difficult times.”

These initiatives, he adds, are in line with the UAE’s efforts to ensure public health and safety and are based on SMB requirements for virtual meetings, cloud video surveillance and analytics, data, monthly usage of voice minutes, device purchases, and postpaid plans.

Keeping business establishments safe

“With the gradual opening of businesses, safety measures, thermal scanners and social distancing procedures should be in place,” Esam Mahmoud says. “In line with government regulations, Etisalat launched a temperature screening solution with multiple product types and a wide range of applications that would make temperature measurement and screening effortless during these challenging times.”

The thermal camera solution is designed to detect skin-surface temperatures to achieve rapid and safe preliminary screening in public areas with high efficiency in a multitude of scenarios. Thermal technology has been applied widely in temperature screening scenarios as it offers more flexibility and efficiency in preliminary screening of elevated skin-surface temperatures. AI technology ensures thermographic cameras only detect human skin-surface temperature to reduce false alarms of other heat sources.

Etisalat’s proposition comes with five options, four different cameras and installment plans of up to 36 months.

State-of-the-art onsite video surveillance technology

“Etisalat’s mantra ‘together matters’ reflects our commitment to the country’s SMB sector,” Esam Mahmoud stresses. “Our Video Surveillance as a Service (VSAAS) offers enhanced security and enables them to benefit from the power of video and video analytics.”

Customers can choose from four Etisalat Video Surveillance (VSAAS) packages, and a one-time installation will be waived off. VSAAS, a comprehensive security surveillance service with a business analytics solution, offers customers end-to-end managed services, security surveillance with analytics, business intelligence, upgradeable cloud storage, as well as web and mobile access, on a monthly subscription model.

VSAAS offers heat maps, people-counting, a security system and queue management. It covers all CCTV requirements, ranging from supply to installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance. It provides cameras, network video recorders with local storage, cloud video management with analytics, web access, a mobile app, and basic seven-day cloud backup as default for continuous streaming.

Connectivity is key

As a provider of vital infrastructure, Etisalat is committed to keeping its valuable customers, employees and society fully connected now more than ever before.

“To support the unprecedented demand for connectivity and help businesses stay connected, we have come up with a wide range of device bundles along with access to Etisalat's unified communication and collaboration platform CloudTalk Meeting,” he says.

Etisalat’s Business First Plus postpaid plan enables business customers to carryforward their unused minutes to the next month and enjoy the unused minutes with three months validity. Plans start from AED110 with carryforward and the Business Xtreme plan with unlimited local calling and double data offer provides 54GB data every month for 12 months starting at only AED 325.

Transforming businesses online

“We have been laser-focused on providing tools and features to support SMBs confronted with a very challenging retail environment where clients tend to restrict their movements and minimise face-to-face interactions,” Esam Mahmoud explains.

Etisalat is providing an E-shop service bundled with a managed web solution for new and existing subscribers to transform businesses online and enable them to engage with their clients via Google My Business and Google Maps listing, website listing, website pages and E-shop starting from AED 160 per month.

Enabling SMBs and their employees to stay connected and productive

With some organisations beginning to reopen and others remaining fully remote, small and medium sized businesses face a unique set of challenges of keeping employees safe, connecting with customers, and moving work forward.

Etisalat provides SMB customers access to a Microsoft 365 Business Basic package, as low as AED 19 a month. The package allows up to 300 users and includes Online Office apps, a 50GB mailbox, a 1TB OneDrive storage, and Microsoft Teams, helps businesses accomplish more and faster with simple file-sharing, real-time co-authoring, and online meetings – all accessible anywhere. Teams can collaborate in real-time with professional e-mail, persistent chat, online storage and video conferencing tools that are always up to date and keep their data safe. In addition, there will be live support from experts during the contract period.

• Etisalat’s readiness and resilience enabled business and learning continuity
• Advanced network witnessed surge in traffic of more than 300 percent across platforms

Etisalat is ready to serve the ‘New Normal’ pushing the fast forward button on digital transformation by focusing on partnerships, collaborations and investments with digital adoption being key for new digital services, said Dr Ahmed Bin Ali, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat Group.

Bin Ali participated on behalf of Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Strategy and Corporate Governance, Etisalat Group at the ‘The Telecommunications Sector and its impact on Future Foresight Post COVID 19’, a virtual future foresight forum organised by UAE’s Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA) and UAE International Investors Council. The event brought together all relevant strategic stake holders from the telecom and technology industry including senior executives from TRA, Ministry of Interior, Smart Dubai, Department of Economic Development (DED), Dubai Future Foundation, Khalifa University, University of Dubai, Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, Microsoft and Noon.

He highlighted the readiness and resilience of Etisalat during the pandemic, the main focus was to support the entire community including business and individuals ensuring its network and services enable business and learning continuity. During the period May-Feb 2020, Etisalat’s network witnessed an increase in traffic of more than 300 percent in communication and collaboration solutions where as in Internet gaming it touched 500 percent. With work and study from home becoming a norm there was a surge in traffic of more than 90 percent in video streaming and social media.

“Thanks to the UAE vision and Etisalat's strategy of ‘Driving the digital future to enable societies’, our network joined one of the most robust and digitally equipped to address the unique requirements during this period making it possible for businesses to work remotely, millions of students to enjoy distance learning and all citizens having access to vital services. Through our networks and dedicated teams we were geared to fully support and serve the community showcasing infrastructure preparedness and our ability to adapt and implement during today's extraordinary times,” said Bin Ali.

The country’s long term vision and strategy focused on digitalisation put it ahead of other global markets in dealing with the pandemic situation. This was backed by global leadership in infrastructure, governance and business environment accompanied with a diversification of the economy and investments. The country has also led in the adoption of technology with the highest mobile broadband subscriptions globally crossing 250 percent and internet usage at an individual level reaching 98.5 percent (5th globally). This was all-possible due to the robust and advanced infrastructure in the country with the highest fiber penetration worldwide and among the first globally and regionally to launch advanced networks with 5G technology.

Etisalat worked closely with the Ministry of Education during the pandemic to provide zero rate access to educational URLs and free mobile data for students. There was also free access to the madrasa platform on eLife and remote learning apps. For the healthcare sector there was a telemedicine platform made available to support hospitals and clinics in providing remote healthcare services. IoT/AI platforms were used for disease containment, AI video analytics including thermal cameras and wearable IoT solutions were among the other advance solutions used for the sector.

The way forward will be about the acceleration of the ‘Hyper Connected Consumer’ with digital life and home gaining significance. Etisalat conducted a survey recently with its business customers to get an insight on their upcoming priorities. The key learning was that acceleration of digital transformation is the most significant and common among all customers. This can be achieved by filling gaps in digital readiness, encouraging the adoption of new digital solutions, adapting to key industry changes, a cloud-first mindset and focus on cybersecurity to ensure business continuity.

Industries and governments will redesign to scale up agility, efficiency and digital ways of working. 5G technology and network will also gain prominence especially with advanced technologies requiring increased bandwidth, connections density and low latency. 5G will enable new experiences and use cases based on futuristic technologies like AR, VR and robotics that are critical for the new digital normal, for both consumers and businesses.

• Customers can also recharge their prepaid account, make charity payments, purchase game and music vouchers via the eWallet app
• Convenient contactless bill payments
• Avail AED5 cashback on each eligible transaction

Digital Financial Services, a joint venture between Etisalat and Noor Bank, today announced the launch of eWallet's utility bill payment services, giving customers peace of mind and savings while paying their bills.

eWallet has been instrumental during this unprecedented time to provide contactless payments. Customers will now also be able to make mobile recharges and charity payments as well as purchase game and music vouchers through the app. Every time customers make an eligible transaction of AED50, they will receive a AED5 cashback. Maximum cashback is capped at AED50 per customer.

Ahmed Al Awadi, Chairman of eWallet, said: “eWallet continues to be an innovative solution that uplifts the way UAE residents conduct financial transactions today. Given the current scenario, the adoption of digital payment solutions is increasing at a rapid pace. We at eWallet are constantly enhancing the platform by introducing new services such as utility bill payment services, international money transfers and providing access to more bill payment platforms.”

Customers using eWallet can now pay a wide range of services on the app without visiting other vendor platforms. These include Etisalat top-up and bill payments, Nol, Salik, Ajman Sewerage, FEWA, National Bonds, Xbox 360, Awqaf Sharjah, Beit Al Khair, Sharjah International Charity and Zakat Fund, and many other services to be included in the coming months.

Eligible billers for the AED5 cashback are Etisalat top-up and bill payments, Nol, Salik, Ajman Sewerage, FEWA, National Bonds and Xbox 360.

Regulated and licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE, eWallet is a revolutionary digital payment service aimed at empowering the UAE residents with safe, convenient and flexible payment solutions through an easy-to-use mobile app.

Unlike other mobile wallets and payment apps, a unique feature of eWallet is that there is no minimum balance needed, no hidden fees, and no need for a bank account, credit or debit card to conduct digital payments. Customers only need a valid Emirates ID and a working UAE mobile number to register for eWallet account. Once registered, users can instantly top-up their wallet balance and start sending and receiving money between mobile phones, transfer to own or third-party bank accounts, and do merchant payments, bill payments, and mobile recharges. Users can deposit and withdraw cash from their wallets by visiting the nearest location as guided in their app.

For more details, please visit www.eWallet.ae

• Board approval of interim dividend for the Q2 2020 of 15 fils per share bringing interim dividend for H1 2020 to 40 fils per share

Etisalat Group today announced its consolidated financial results for H1 ending 30^th June 2020.

• Etisalat Group subscriber base reached 146 million Subscriber.
• Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 25.6 billion and consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 4.6 billion representing a year over year increase of 3% and resulting in a net profit margin of 18%.
• Consolidated EBITDA totaled AED 13.2 billion resulting in EBITDA margin of 52%.
• Etisalat named ‘The Most Valuable Consumer Brand’ and ‘The Most Valuable Telecom Brand’ in MEA region
• Credit Rating Agencies Standards & Poor's and Moody's affirmed Etisalat Group's high credit rating at AA-/Aa3 with stable outlook
• Etisalat partnered with Department of Health, the regulator of the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi to launch the ‘Digital Healthcare’ Centre
• Etisalat launched first-of-it-kind telehealth service in the private sector as a continuation of its mission to provide clinical excellence to patients in need.
• Etisalat partnered with Alef Education to enable a series of digital initiatives to empower the region’s education sector
• Etisalat unveiled the 5G-enabled smart patrol for Dubai Police, a first in the Middle East and North Africa region

• Etisalat in partnership with Ministry of Interior signs an MoU with Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme to provide villas with the smart fire alarm solution ‘Hassantuk’
• Etisalat launched multiple initiatives to support ‘Stay at Home’ directive including but not limited to:
  • Free internet to families to facilitate access to distance learning services
  • More than 10 million Etisalat mobile subscribers enjoyed free browsing to over 800 websites related to education, health and safety
  • Free access to apps and platforms for distance learning and for government services.
  • Introducing new innovative applications and services to ensure seamless business continuity during work from home period.
  • Launched enhanced offers for customers to upgrade their home and mobile plans at no extra charge
  • Etisalat introduced a wide range of device bundles and free access to Etisalat's unified communication and collaboration platform CloudTalk Meeting to help businesses stay connected
  • Etisalat deployed a dedicated task force to ensure business continuity, monitor the performance of basic applications and ensue smooth access to data locally and internationally
  • Establishing command centres equipped with advanced tools to monitor the performance of services provided to government departments, businesses and customers 24/7 
  • Allocating extra network resources and services to the health sector
  • Providing connectivity to quarantined and other critical areas in the health sector
  • Conducted Stay-At-Home awareness campaign across multiple channels
• Etisalat partnered with Microsoft to enhance its public cloud first strategy infused with automation and AI
• Digital Financial Services, a joint venture of Etisalat and Noor Bank, partnered with MoneyGram to offer international remittance services in the UAE
• Etisalat completed the acquisition of Help AG, a privately held regional company specialising in the delivery of cyber security solutions and services.
• Etisalat expands ‘SmartHub’ presence with a Tier 3 data centre facility at two new locations in UAE
• Etisalat successfully launched open virtual Radio Access Network (Open vRAN), becoming the first operator in MENA to achieve this technological feat
• Etisalat launched ‘Business Edge’, a new comprehensive platform offering a wide range of services and solutions that cater to Small and Medium Business (SMB) customers
• Etisalat launched ‘Easy Prepaid’ enabling business customers to enjoy prepaid features on existing postpaid plans

“Etisalat Group has delivered a good performance in the first half of 2020 considering the circumstances; the world is voyaging through unchartered waters and COVID-19 has affected all industries including the telecom sector. Etisalat managed to adapt, respond and demonstrate resilience as we ensured the delivery of uninterrupted services to our customers and had the privilege of supporting our society through various initiatives.

“We are witnessing an opportunity to fast track digital transformation. The unconventional conditions have spurred the adoption of digital services, bridging a divide by changing customers’ behaviour towards digital channels. Etisalat’s innovative solutions have catered for the social distancing era, it has enabled remote working and education, it minimised human interactions and increased the pace of automation. Our infrastructure has accommodated the surge in requirements and is ready for more acceleration in digital adoption.

“I would like to thank the UAE leadership for positioning the country as one of the most competitive nations globally. Despite the headwinds posed by today’s extraordinary times we continue to pursue our digital goals to meet the distinctive needs of all customers. I would also like to extend appreciation to our shareholders and loyal customers for their sustained confidence during this period.”

“As we conclude the first half of the year, we pride ourselves with our ability to sustain shareholder value while ensuring the safety of our employees , the welfare of our customers, and the continues support to the community. The group’s financial performance is a testimony of the strong foundations Etisalat was built on and a reflection of a robust network playing a pivotal role in harnessing solutions and services enabling governments, industries and communities to accelerate digital transformation.

“Today the digital revolution is in full force with businesses looking at every window of opportunity to transform their services and solutions. At Etisalat our focus to realise the vision and  strategy of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’ supported customers during these unprecedented times by providing them a plethora of new innovative services and emerging technologies backed with resilient connectivity to mitigate the exponential spikes in the network.

“Despite the global economic pressure, Etisalat is confidently moving forward and progressing positively in enabling societies across its operations. We will continue to focus on capitalising opportunities and enhancing overall customer experience while delivering long-term value for all our shareholders.”

• In the UAE the subscriber base reached 11.8 million subscribers in H1 of 2020, while Aggregate subscriber base reached 146 million, representing a year over year increase of 2%

• Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 25.6 billion and consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 4.6 billion representing a year over year increase of 3% and resulting in a net profit margin of 18%.

• Consolidated EBITDA totaled AED 13.2 billion, resulting in EBITDA margin of 52%.

• Get a chance to win AED250,000 and guaranteed prizes every time you recharge AED30 and above

Etisalat today announced the launch of its Wasel Gifts ‘Mega Prize’ promotion, offering one lucky prepaid customer a chance to win AED 250,000 cash in addition to instant prizes for every recharge of AED30 and above.

New and existing Wasel and WaselGo subscribers are eligible for this special three-month promotion. For every one dirham of AED30 recharge and above, an AED250,000 mega prize awaits one lucky winner chosen via a draw scheduled to be held on 10th October 2020. More recharges will boost one’s chances of winning a life-changing prize. For instance, an AED30 recharge gives a customer 30 chances to win the mega prize.

Prepaid customers who top up AED 30 and above will continue to enjoy instant prizes in the form of data, local or international minutes, bonus credit, Smiles points or others.

The ‘Mega Prize’ promotion does not require any opt-in. The minimum recharge amount is AED 30. Any type of recharge is allowed, except for mobile credit transfer. Subscribers can opt-out by dialing *101*30*2#.

• Partnership enables global cross-border peer-to-peer payments
• eWallet enables customers to instantly remit to 200 countries & territories worldwide

Digital Financial Services LLC, a joint venture of Etisalat and Noor Bank, acquired earlier this year by Dubai Islamic Bank, has partnered with MoneyGram, a global leader in cross-border P2P payments and money transfers, to offer international remittance services in the UAE.

With this partnership, eWallet customers can make international money transfers in real-time to friends and family in over 200 countries and territories worldwide through an expansive network of mobile wallet operators, bank account deposit services, and over 350,000 walk-in locations.

Regulated and licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE, eWallet is a revolutionary digital payment service aimed at empowering the UAE residents with safe, convenient and flexible payment solutions through an easy-to-use eWallet mobile app.

Unlike other mobile wallets and payment apps, a unique feature of eWallet is that there is no need to have a bank account, credit or debit card to do digital payments. Customers need a valid Emirates ID and a UAE mobile number to open an eWallet account. Once registered, users can instantly top-up their wallet balance and start sending and receiving money between mobile phones, transfer to own or third-party bank accounts, and do merchant payments, bill payments, and mobile recharges. In addition to sending money globally through MoneyGram, users can also withdraw cash from their wallets by visiting the nearest MoneyGram agent location.

Commenting on the partnership, Ahmed Al Awadi, Chairman of Digital Payment Services, said: “eWallet continues to be an innovative solution that uplifts the way UAE residents conduct financial transactions today. Our partnership with MoneyGram will further enrich our consumers with the state-of-the-art customer service experience which MoneyGram is renowned for and will boost our future expansion plans.”

“Etisalat has digitally transformed its business to adopt to the increasingly tech-savvy lifestyles of its customers, which is an extremely diverse population as the UAE is home to over 200 different nationalities that comprise one of the world's highest percentage of immigrants,” said Grant Lines, Chief Revenue Officer at MoneyGram. “We're excited about how this partnership will help accelerate digital growth as we bring our leading customer-centric capabilities to reach more people in the third biggest outward remittance country in the world."

Etisalat and Noor Bank have brought their key strengths in technology, banking, marketing, distribution networks, and superior digital experience to launch this new service in the UAE. The partnership is in line with the UAE Vision 2021 of creating smart knowledge economies that will enable a shift to a cashless economy.

For more details, please visit www.eWallet.ae.

• SmartHub-FUJ 2 provides new space and enables global players to expand presence in the region
• SmartHub-DXB 1 to add business diversity to carrier business

Etisalat today announced the expansion of its SmartHub in UAE with a state-of-the-art Tier 3 data centre facility at two new locations growing its presence in the region enabling global partners to bring digitalisation, implement cloud transformation initiatives, accelerate connectivity and capacity reach across Europe, US, Asia, Middle East and Africa.

The opening of the new facilities in Fujairah and Dubai is in line with UAE’s vision to become an ICT and data hub for the region addressing the diverse requirements of global data centres and technology companies. With the launch of the new facilities Etisalat’s Carrier & Wholesale Services (C&WS) have set a benchmark in the region and is also a testimony to the company’s strategy of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’.

Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, Etisalat said: “During this unprecedented period that has challenged both health and economy, global markets are looking at enhancing interconnectivity and adding new capacities for businesses and the entire community. As the biggest neutral carrier hotels, Etisalat’s SmartHub data centres will be an ICT bridge between continents always supporting business critical activities of global customers.

“Thanks to the UAE vision and Etisalat's goal of enabling digital transformation, our network has always been one of the most robust and digitally equipped to address the unique requirements during this period making it possible for businesses to work remotely, millions of students to enjoy distance learning and all citizens having access to vital services.

“The launch and expansion of infrastructure, power and space of our data centres in such a short time frame is a testimony to our efforts to meet the growing demand from existing global customers. We are committed to making ‘SmartHub’ a preferred location for carriers, cloud service providers, Internet exchanges and companies looking for carrier grade data centres.”

The addition of the space and high power capacity in Fujairah and Dubai will bring the overall power capacity to more than 10MW with diversified power grid supply complemented with backup systems (N+N power redundancy).

SmartHub, a trusted digital partner is strategically located for global customers across industry verticals such as financial services and gaming. In the financial services industry, SmartHub’s secure digital capabilities support interconnected clouds and low latency environments directly connected to global networks and ecosystems. The gaming industry is estimated at 2.3 billion active gamers globally with more than half of them located in the Asia-Pacific region, in this scenario SmartHub’s location presents a massive opportunity for gaming platforms.

SmartHub supports several route independent carriers offering direct access to multiple independent subsea cable systems interconnecting Europe, US, Asia, Middle East and Africa. Currently, SmartHub has the potential to offer diversified and low latency route connectivity to more than 2 billion people with 30 milliseconds latency. SmartHub currently hosts more than 60 providers including major carriers, content providers, mobile and satellite services and industry sectors like financial services and digital cloud platforms.

Etisalat Group announced today in a statement that Eng. Saleh Al Abdooli, has submitted his resignation as the Chief Executive Officer of Etisalat Group, for personal reasons. The Board of Directors accepted his resignation and appointed Eng. Hatem Dowidar as Acting Chief Executive Officer for the Group. Dowidar is currently the CEO International of Etisalat.

His Excellency Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman of Etisalat Group, and the members of the board directors thanked Al Abdooli for the efforts he made and the accomplishments achieved for Etisalat Group during his tenure as Group CEO and his 28 years of service to the company.

• Etisalat subscribers get free access to Dubai Police’s website and app
• Initiative stems from Dubai Police’s continuous efforts to make the emirate the safest city in the world

Dubai Police today announced that it has partnered with Etisalat to launch an initiative providing Etisalat customers in the UAE with free access to Dubai Police’s website and mobile application without consuming internet data.

In addition to Dubai Police’s website and mobile app, Etisalat customers can access other online services available for individuals, establishments and visitors, upload or download data, without consuming their internet data. The three-month initiative began on 15th April 2020.

The initiative reflects Dubai Police efforts in maintaining the security and safety during the current circumstances, allowing the public to utilise Dubai Police’s online services. This collaboration supports ‘Police Eye, a programme launched recently by Dubai Police which provides the public with a secure and confidential online platform to report crimes and suspicious activities in the city.

Brigadier Jamal Salem Al Jalaf, Director of the General Department of Criminal Investigation (CID) at Dubai Police said that maintaining safety and security is a mutual commitment and a national obligation that all parties must participate.

“Based on our confidence in the public’s cooperation with the police which establishes safety and stability, we have facilitated the public with the ability to report any violations or disturbing crimes through a new service called ‘Police Eye’. This programme enables individuals to easily report various security violations such as suspicious gatherings, suspicious vehicles, begging, massage cards, and other illegal practices,” said Brig Al Jalaf.

“‘Police Eye’ also allows reporting violations related to precautionary measures taken to combat Covid-19such as failure to wear face masks and not keeping a safe distance etc. In view of this partnership, Etisalat subscribers can upload pictures and videos of any misbehaviour or violation and report to the police without consuming their own internet packages.”

Brigadier Khalid Nasser Al Razooqi, Director of the General Department of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai Police welcomed this partnership with Etisalat, he stated: “This initiative clearly indicates the collaboration of various government and private entities to fulfill consumers’ needs and ensure their safety especially under the current circumstances. ‘Police Eye’ is among the many services offered to the public through smart application and website, such as emergency response service, reporting of e-crimes, reporting bounced cheques, and applying for a police clearance certificate. We encourage the public to take advantage of this initiative and conduct their transactions using the smart services from the comfort of their houses to maintain their safety and the welfare of the community.”

Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President, Government Sales, Etisalat said: “During these difficult times, Etisalat is committed to support all sectors in the UAE and to participate - with its technical teams and digital capabilities – in government initiatives that gives them an opportunity to serve the community. We at Etisalat are proud to collaborate with Dubai Police by deploying our extensive network to contribute in the security and safety of the community in line with the Dubai government’s objective of making the city the safest in the world.”

Dubai Police’s mobile application is available for download on Android and iOS app stores and supports seven international languages, namely English, French, Chinese, German, Russian, Spanish and Arabic.

• For the first time in UAE, customers can easily switch between prepaid and postpaid benefits using the same number

Etisalat today announced the launch of ‘Easy Prepaid,’ enabling business customers to enjoy a prepaid feature on their existing postpaid mobile plan.

With this new hybrid capability, customers can now switch between prepaid and postpaid features without the need to change their existing number. They can also recharge their credit, make out-of-bundle calls and subscribe to add-ons using standard prepaid tariff rates.

‘Easy Prepaid’ allows employees to make personal calls at their own expense. For instance, an employee can use a prepaid account – with the same number – when he or she reaches the maximum allowance given by the company. The unique feature also caters to customers who have company restrictions to make international calls using their existing business mobile plans. The new hybrid capability empowers all employees who are on postpaid plans not to only make personal local and international calls, but also to pay for m-parking and other value added services using their prepaid credit.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, Small and Medium Business, Etisalat, said: “The launch of ‘Easy Prepaid’ reinforces our commitment to deliver flexible value propositions that address our customers’ needs amidst the current global phenomenon. For the first time in the UAE, our valued business postpaid customers can now enjoy a unique offering that empowers them with additional freedom and convenience to use the same line for their personal communication needs.”

Customers can easily recharge their credit using any existing Wasel recharge option, Etisalat Business Mobile app or through online banking apps.

Once the account gets recharged customer can switch from postpaid to Easy Prepaid by dialing *124# and start making calls, send SMS, use data and subscribe to other add-ons. More information on ‘Easy Prepaid’ is available at https://www.etisalat.ae/en/smb/mobile/easy-prepaid.jsp.

• Over 109 TV channels and 13,000 VOD hours to be available on Etisalat TV app

E-Vision, a subsidiary of Etisalat Group, announced its strategic partnership with Etisalat Misr to launch ‘Etisalat TV’, a state-of-the-art app enabling viewers to enjoy both English and Arabic movies, series and Ramadan productions across smart devices anywhere and anytime.

This partnership comes in line with E-Vision’s efforts to provide its customers, mainly telecom providers with comprehensive TV services and top-notch Video-On-Demand (VOD) content while supporting them to achieve their strategic objectives in providing the best in content and world-class entertainment from across the globe.

This state-of-the-art app allows Etisalat Misr’s customers to watch English and Arabic movies while enjoying English movies with Arabic subtitles. In addition, a wide range of series, programs and Ramadan productions will be made available on the app to attract audiences across genres with top-notch entertainment and unmatched TV experience. The app can be accessed anywhere and anytime on across Android and Apple smart devices, platforms, Etisalat TV’s website and will also soon be made available on all smart TVs.

Humaid Sahoo Al Suwaidi, CEO, E-Vision said: “We are glad to be part of this strategic project showcasing our commitment to digital innovation and collaboration to bring the best in class content and entertainment to regional viewers across media platforms. This partnership reiterates E-vision’s commitment to provide high quality content allowing prepaid VOD operators to introduce special TV services and packages to their customers enabling operators to focus on their core business.

“The launch of ‘Etisalat TV’ will give Etisalat Misr’s customers a unique experience enabling them to enjoy high quality content anytime anywhere on their smart devices.  This collaboration will allow E-vision to provide comprehensive solutions enabling Etisalat Misr to provide advanced solutions and features to all its customers. Etisalat Misr will now have access to prepaid TV service with over 109 TV channels and 13,000 VOD hours. Our partnership with Starz Play, MBC, Rotana, Fox, ART, Good News 4 ME and other leading service providers will give them a competitive edge in the Egyptian market.”

E-Vision provides its services based entirely on advanced cloud computing giving Etisalat Misr flexibility in adopting cutting-edge technologies and services.

E-Vision currently operates in the UAE, KSA, Egypt and Pakistan. Over the years, E-Vision has developed superior solutions and capabilities to meet requirements of business partners in TV channels licensing, video-on-demand acquisition, content strategy, video OTT solutions, 4K, hospitality and advertising.

For more than two decades, E-Vision has partnered with the biggest names in the industry worldwide and secured content partnerships for multiple Pay TV and OTT services from major Hollywood Studios, Bollywood and the latest Arabic productions as well as leading TV channel providers from around the globe.

In addition, E-Vision operates original and exclusive award-winning channels like e-Junior, the most watched kids channel in the UAE, and e-Masala, a 24 hours non-stop South Asian movie channel.

• As part of its support and commitment towards the community and its shareholders, Etisalat board of Directors approves interim dividend payout of 25 fils per share
• Representing a 1% increase YOY

 Financial Highlights and Key Developments of Q1

As Part of its support and commitment towards the community and its shareholders, Etisalat board of Directors approves interim dividend payout of 25 fils per share

Aggregate subscriber base reached 150 million, representing a year over year increase of 5%.

Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 13.1 billion representing a year over year increase of 1% while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 2.2 billion and resulting in a net profit margin of 17%.

Consolidated EBITDA totaled AED 6.7 billion, representing an increase of 1.5% year over year and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%.

Etisalat launched initiatives to support “Stay at Home” directive offering free mobile internet for families without home internet to facilitate their access to distance learning services, free applications to support work from home for businesses and government entities.

Etisalat named ‘The Most Valuable Consumer Brand’ and ‘The Most Valuable Telecom Brand’ in MEA region.

Etisalat completed the acquisition of Help AG, a privately held regional company specialising in the delivery of cyber security solutions and services.

Etisalat successfully launched open virtual Radio Access Network (Open vRAN), becoming the first operator in MENA to achieve this technological feat

Etisalat unveiled the 5G-enabled smart patrol for Dubai Police, a first in the Middle East and North Africa region

Etisalat partnered with Microsoft to enhance its public cloud first strategy infused with automation and AI

Etisalat introduced 'Cloudtalk', first-of-a-kind cloud-based platform enabling  business unified communication and collaboration service for small and medium businesses (SMB) and enterprise customers in the UAE

Etisalat launched ‘Business Edge’, a new comprehensive platform offering a wide range of services and solutions that cater to Small and Medium Business (SMB) customers

Etisalat partnered with Alef Education, to enable both entities to collaborate on a series of digital initiatives to empower the region’s education sector

Etisalat launched first-of-it-kind telehealth service in the private sector as a continuation of its mission to provide clinical excellence to patients in need

Etisalat partnered with Department of Health, the regulator of the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi to launch the ‘Digital Healthcare’ Centre

H.E. Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman, Etisalat Group said: “Today as we navigate through these challenging times, Etisalat has showed resilience and remained committed towards the communities it serves, ensuring business continuity and readiness, minimising impact on our operations and uninterrupted services to our customers. Etisalat's performance in the first quarter reflects our agility in dealing with unprecedented market challenges and pressures facing the telecom sector globally.

“We are also thankful to the vision of our wise leadership in the UAE in positioning the country among the most digitally advanced globally and inspiring us to realise our efforts in ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’ by delivering world-class networks, infrastructure and innovative services. This has empowered Etisalat to address the current challenges and meet digital requirements facilitating businesses to work remotely and over a million students enjoying distance learning across the UAE. Through our dedicated teams, we were geared to fully support and serve the community showcasing infrastructure preparedness to deliver access to vital telecom services during today’s extraordinary times.

“Moving ahead, we remain optimistic about the future as there are immense opportunities in the midst of the challenges and pressures faced by the telecom sector globally. With digital enablement and innovation making an impact on every sector, the world is moving in full force towards achieving digital transformation. 5G network is more important than ever as it will be a key enabler of remote business, education, entertainment and has the capability of addressing customer current and future needs. Etisalat’s pioneering position in 5G will bring these futuristic solutions to governments, businesses and consumers alike reiterating our efforts in digital innovation and also our leadership as a telecom brand regionally and internationally.

"Etisalat is grateful to the leaders of the UAE for their continuous support and also want to express our gratitude to all our loyal customers and shareholders for their confidence in driving us to accomplish our goals of driving digital innovations for a better future.”

In the UAE the subscriber base grew to 12.7 million subscribers in Q1 of 2020, while aggregate subscriber base reached 150 million, representing a year over year increase of 5%.

Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 13.1 billion representing a year over year increase of 1%  while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 2.2 billion and resulting in a net profit margin of 17%.

Group Consolidated EBITDA for the first quarter of 2020 increased by 1.5% to AED 6.7 billion while EBITDA margin remained stable year on year at 51%.

• 3-month free access since launch with now up to 50 participants in a single online meeting with a moderator
• Advanced and secure collaboration platform is hosted locally

Etisalat’s platform, CloudTalk Meeting, is witnessing a demand among government entities and businesses across the UAE. With its advanced and secure features, the platform enables users to streamline their collaboration and communication when conducting virtual meetings from the comfort of their homes.

This follows a recent announcement for government departments and businesses to get a three-month free access starting 9th March 2020 to its CloudTalk Meeting platform as a way to maintain business continuity. Participants can use this secure platform from any device, location and network in the UAE.

Due to a high volume of requests and demand for the service, Etisalat expanded the features of CloudTalk Meeting by enabling 50 concurrent participants to join an online meeting and discussion, with an added feature of a moderator to personalise and manage the meetings.

CloudTalk Meeting deploys Etisalat’s developed capabilities and extensive network to provide a reliable solution in response to changing requirements in the workplace.

CloudTalk is securely hosted in the country presenting robust capabilities that enable government departments and organisations to work remotely, maintain business continuity, and ensure smooth functioning of their businesses. Participants can join online meetings and discussions, and communicate using advanced features such as HD quality video and voice conference, instant messaging, group chats, draw schemas, and use the whiteboard, and much more.

Free access to Etisalat CloudTalk Meeting is valid until 10th June 2020, and business customers can subscribe to the platform on https://www.etisalat.ae/en/smb/connectivity-talk/CloudTalk-meeting-offer.jsp.

Etisalat today announced the launch of its Business First Plus postpaid plan, enabling business customers to roll over unused minutes to the next month and enjoy the benefit of any unused allowance.

With the “carryforward” feature, Business First Plus customers can avail an affordable postpaid plan, and will not lose their unused minutes as it will be rolled over to the next months. The “carry forwarded” minutes have a three-month validity.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “Current times demand that businesses are able to adapt to dynamic business conditions. Business First Plus provides additional flexibility to our customers in these challenging times, allowing them to carry forward their unused voice minutes and optimise how they use mobile services. The launch reinforces Etisalat’s commitment in empowering businesses by offering new products and plans that cater to their varying needs and requirements.”

To find out more about the plans, please visit Etisalat.ae/mobileplans.

• Over 12,000 students benefit from free mobile data to access e-learning applications
• More than 10 million mobile subscribers get free data while browsing over 800 websites on education, health & safety
• Etisalat provides access to 9 apps & platforms for distance learning, allowing visual & audio communications

Etisalat today announced that it enabled at least one million students in the UAE to access distance learning websites and platforms using its advanced network, with more than 10 million mobile subscribers enjoying free browsing to over 800 websites related to education, health and safety.

To support and enable distance learning, free mobile data was made available - in coordination with the Ministry of Education and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) - to over 12,000 students whose families do not have Internet at home. Etisalat also provided access to 9 apps and platforms, allowing visual and audio communications: Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, Blackboard, Zoom, Skype for Business, Cisco Webex, Avaya Spaces, BlueJeans and Slack on Its fixed and mobile network in collaboration with the TRA. These are part of a bundle of Initiatives to support the education sector, ensuring a smooth functioning of remote learning processes.

These initiatives stem from Etisalat's corporate social responsibility strategy to utilise its resources and capabilities, empower the educational sector with state-of-the-art technology, and ensure seamless and effective connectivity across all learning platforms.

Keeping in line with its strategy 'Driving the digital future to empower societies', Etisalat is committed to support distance learning initiatives in the UAE following the ministry's decision to extend distance learning until the end of the current academic year.

Etisalat will continue to offer all the connectivity tools and services students and teachers need, including the fastest fixed broadband and mobile network In the region, to ensure seamless continuity of the country’s education curriculum.

• Free international money transfers with competitive rates
• Safe, convenient, flexible and easy-to-use
• Exclusively features digital onboarding from home to allow contactless payments including instant money transfers to any mobile number in the UAE, bill payments & mobile recharges

Digital Financial Services, a joint venture between Etisalat and Noor Bank, today announced the launch of eWallet's international remittance services to 200 countries and territories worldwide in partnership with MoneyGram International.

eWallet customers can now make international money transfers in real-time at the most competitive rates free of charge from the safety of their homes, avoiding queuesor visiting a public place. Money transfers can now be digitally made to over 350,000 locations consisting of banks, over the counter agents, and international mobile wallet operators in over 200 countries and territories worldwide. The offer is for a limited period only.

An eWallet customer, depending on the destination, will have the option to send funds either directly to a recipient’s bank account or to a mobile wallet.

Ahmed Al Awadi, Chairman of eWallet, said: “eWallet continues to be an innovative solution that uplifts the way UAE residents conduct financial transactions today. We understand that in light of the current global situation, people are increasingly choosing to send money digitally from the comfort and safety of their homes. As people work to support their family and loved ones across the globe, we aim to enable them to safely and instantly remit money to over 200 countries and territories worldwide.”

Regulated and licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE, eWallet is a revolutionary digital payment service aimed at empowering the UAE residents with safe, convenient and flexible payment solutions through an easy-to-use mobile app.

Unlike other mobile wallets and payment apps, a unique feature of eWallet is that there is no need to have a bank account, credit or debit card to do digital payments. Customers only need a valid Emirates ID and a working UAE mobile number to register for eWallet account. Once registered, users can instantly top-up their wallet balance and start sending and receiving money between mobile phones, transfer to own or third-party bank accounts, and do merchant payments, bill payments, and mobile recharges. Users can deposit and withdraw cash from their wallets by visiting the nearest location as guided in their app.

For more details, please visit www.eWallet.ae.

Online secure communication and collaboration platform witnesses high demand among businesses across the UAE

Etisalat today announced it is expanding its CloudTalk Meeting by enabling 50 concurrent participants to join an online meeting and discussion, in response to the high volume of requests and growing demand for the service.

The three months’ free access to Etisalat’s unified communication and collaboration platform CloudTalk Meeting launched recently was well-received by the market, with  numerous businesses and government entities coming on board to use the service and streamline their operations while they work remotely.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat said, “Etisalat is fully committed to supporting businesses in the country during this unprecedented period through solutions and services to ensure that there is no business impact on their operations. CloudTalk Meeting will enable organisations to remotely work, maintain business continuity, collaborate, and ensure smooth functioning of their businesses.”

“With a robust backend capability that is hosted in the country, the reliable solution guarantees that businesses and all our customers have a seamless experience. The increased capacity of users per session will facilitate more team members, customers, and remote work forces to use the secure platform to meet all their business requirements.”

Etisalat’s CloudTalk Meeting will now allow up to 50 concurrent participants to join meetings and discussions simultaneously, with an added feature of a moderator to personalise and manage the meetings. With this scale-up, a greater number of users will be able to communicate using advanced features such as HD quality video and voice conference, instant messaging, group chats, draw schemas, and use the whiteboard, and much more.

The free access to Etisalat CloudTalk Meeting is valid until 10^th June 2020 and customers can subscribe to the platform on visit https://www.etisalat.ae/en/smb/connectivity-talk/CloudTalk-meeting-offer.jsp.

Measures taken to facilitate distance learning, ensure business continuity and entertain families at home

Keeping in line with the government directives to encourage citizens to stay at home and be safe in the current scenario, Etisalat’s bundle of initiatives for consumers and businesses will make it easier to study, work, entertain and remain connected with family and friends from the comfort of their homes. 

During this unprecedented period that has challenged both health and economy, Etisalat has taken many steps to ensure that its network, services and teams are well equipped to support all its customers. Etisalat teams are working non-stop to make sure that all its customers, including government departments, large enterprises, SMBs and subscribers across the country, stay connected. With overall data traffic on the telco’s network expected to surge exponentially, Etisalat’s advanced network is resilient, reliable and secure and has sufficient flexibility to adapt to changing consumer and business demands.  Etisalat offers all the connectivity tools and services people need to continue to communicate and conduct business including the fastest fixed broadband and mobile network in the region.

Etisalat recently increased its local network capacity while also boosting its international data capacity to enable all customers with the best possible experience while they, learn, work and get entertained from home.

A wide range of products and services are being offered to customers, including access to remote working apps, remote collaboration tools, zero-rating and whitelisting of educational websites,  free on-demand movies and premium content on eLife, StarzPlay, OSN and Switch TV, free eLife upgrades, and ‘Freedom’ postpaid mobile data promotions, among others. These are designed to provide entertainment to families at home, facilitate uninterrupted distance e-learning, boost employee productivity and ensure seamless business continuity.

For Consumers Entertainment

With more people staying at home, Etisalat’s special promotions will entertain as well as help customers enjoy higher speeds on their home network.

Existing elife TV and internet bundle (triple play) customers who chose to move to a new eLife unlimited Plan will receive the upgraded benefits at no extra charge for three months. The eLife Unlimited plans offer speeds from an incredible 250Mbps more than enough to work-from home and keep everyone streaming their favourite content. Subscribers also have the option to downgrade back to their old plan if they wish for no penalty during this time. 

eLife viewers will be kept entertained with free on demand movies each week for the next six weeks as well as enjoy free StarzPlay for three months with the latest Arabic, Western TV series and movies simply by subscribing on-screen. For customers who want more premium add-on packs “Arabia, Western, Asian or Pinoy” they can also subscribe for free for the first three months. Customers will also receive an entire month of OSN’s El Farq package containing some of the biggest names in entertainment with channels being opened for free viewing for all eLife TV customers.

With Etisalat’s recent launch of a brand-new OTT video service SwitchTV, subscribers can enjoy free premium content such as movies, live TV and on demand movies. The app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store, Google Play or the new Huawei App Gallery and is available to all UAE residents regardless of provider.

For Staying Connected with family and friends

Etisalat has also launched special promotions for postpaid customers to stay in touch with family and friends. Existing ‘Freedom’ postpaid customers on 200GB and unlimited data activated in March 2019 will benefit from an extended double data promotion on their plans.

For Students and Schools

Etisalat is working closely with the Ministry of Education and TRA to enable free mobile data for students whose families do not have internet services at home. This is to support distance learning, giving them access to specific applications identified by the ministry. The ministry has prepared a list of eligible students that was shared with Etisalat to provide them with mobile data packages.

In support of the ministry’s initiatives, Etisalat has granted zero-rate access to selected educational URLs, allowing students to have free access on their mobile phones without consuming any data. In addition, all eLife customers can avail free educational content (‘Madrasa’) on their TV screens.

Etisalat has also provided access to remote learning applications (Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, Blackboard and Zoom) on the fixed network and Microsoft Teams, Blackboard and Zoom on the mobile network.

For Remote Working

For a period of three months, businesses can also access for free its online collaboration platform - Etisalat CloudTalk Meeting – to help maintain business continuity by providing a secure platform to collaborate from any device, location, and network in the UAE.

Business operations can remain uninterrupted with Cloudtalk’s unlimited video conferencing and online collaboration sessions without any additional fee for this service. The platform provides state-of-the-art features for meetings and collaborations that help in boosting business productivity and contributes to an elevated user experience.

Remote customer care

Etisalat is encouraging consumers and business customers to also utilise mobile and online services including ‘My Etisalat UAE’ app, Etisalat business mobile apps and business portals.

With the ‘My Etisalat UAE’ app, customers have a 24/7 access to make payments in a safe and secure manner connecting instantly using live chat. The app enables access to bills and payments, share credit and data, check usage and shop.

• Aggregate subscriber base reached 149 million, representing YoY increase of 6%
• Twelve month consolidated revenues reached to AED 52.2 billion, while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 8.7 billion an increase of 1% compared to same period last year
• Consolidated EBITDA amounted to AED 26.4 billion, representing an increase of 2% YoY resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%
• Credit Ratings by agencies S & P Global and Moodys affirmed Etisalat Group’s high credit rating at AA-/Aa3
• Etisalat AGM approves full-year 2019 dividend of 80 fils per share
• Etisalat named ‘The Most Valuable Consumer Brand’ and ‘The Most Valuable Telecom Brand’ in MEA region in 2019 by Brand Finance

At Etisalat’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the company’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, shareholders have backed the board’s recommendation to pay full-year 2019 dividends of 80 fils per share. Etisalat Group consolidated revenues reached AED 52.2 billion while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty reached AED 8.7 billion an increase of 1% compared to the same period last year.

H.E. Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman, Etisalat Group said: “As we begin our journey into the next decade, 2019 was a testimony to Etisalat Group leadership locally and internationally. Etisalat continued reinforcing its core business, explore new growth opportunities, while transitioning to the digital era and being well geared for the future.

“Etisalat Group has led the digital transformation by proactively responding to technological advancements and bringing the latest global innovations to nurture creativity. Digital transformation is becoming present in more areas of life, and we have striven to be at the forefront leading it. Our current success is a result of understanding the need our customers have to rely on Etisalat to deliver.

“Etisalat Group continued to achieve strong financial performance and maintained its high credit rating (AA-/Aa3) reflecting a proven long-term performance and efforts to provide value to shareholders, which was the drive behind proposing a final dividend of AED 0.8 representing a dividend yield of 5% and dividends payout ratio of 80%.

“For more than four decades, Etisalat has been able to meet the needs and expectations of millions of customers across our footprint. Enhancing customer experience remains at the core of our strategy enabling us to launch innovative services and solutions making a positive impact on their daily lives.

“This was only possible due to a decade of continuous support and vision of the UAE leadership, the loyalty of our customers and the trust of our shareholders. A special thanks to Etisalat management team for their commitment and dedicated work towards the realisation of Etisalat’s vision and strategic goals.”

Eng. Saleh Abdullah Al Abdooli, GCEO, Etisalat Group said”: “I am proud to announce another great year for Etisalat Group. Our results are driven by an ambitious vision, a focused strategy, and sheer determination. This also affirmed our technological leadership in a rapidly evolving ecosystem, and ensured value creation for our customers and shareholders.

“With the acquisition of Tigo Chad, Etisalat Group is now operating in 16 markets while enriching the lives of over 149 million subscribers. Investing for growth, sustaining a superior infrastructure, possessing differentiated assets, platforms and capabilities were integral to building a network for a better future across our markets. Etisalat today is recognised as the most valuable consumer and telecom brand in the MEA region for the third and fourth consecutive year respectively, an illustration of our long-standing efforts and testament to building a successful telecom brand in the region”.

He underlined: “In 2019, Etisalat Group has delivered a balanced performance across its different aspects, along with solid financial results despite the challenging economical scene at global and regional scales.. Company consolidated revenues stood at AED 52.2 billion, while consolidated net profits growth to AED 8.7 billion. We managed to confine the negative impact of various challenges with successful initiatives that aimed at maximising synergy at group level, enhancing efficiency, and rationalising costs.

“5G is a game changer with Etisalat taking the lead in the launch of the network which will amplify the use of futuristic services, target new opportunities and implement 5G use cases across verticals. This has also set the roadmap for services based on emerging technologies such as IoT, cloud, big data, AI, robotics, autonomous, AR/VR, becoming a trusted partner that supports transformation in a digitally disrupted and fully connected world. Our continuous investments in the network also led Etisalat to be recognised as MENA’s fastest mobile network and GCC, Africa, Arabian region’s fastest fixed broadband network”.

“While we continue to deploy innovative 5G networks, Etisalat has also set global benchmarks in Fiber to the Home (FTTH) by maintaining the UAE’s position as a global leader for the third consecutive year.

“At the end, I am confident that Etisalat Group will deliver the ambitions and aspirations of our customers and continue to support the communities we serve and add value to the markets where we operate. We are thankful to the wise leadership of the UAE and our shareholders for their steady support in this journey, our customers for their continued confidence and trust.” .

• New suite of services and solutions to securely connect SMBs with their customers

Etisalat today announced the launch of ‘Business Edge’, a comprehensive platform offering a wide range of services and solutions that cater to Small and Medium Business (SMB) customers.

Collaboration and communication from Business Edge enables SMBs to connect to customers in a secure and scalable way, allowing employees and customers to talk, video-conference and share documents, using Etisalat’s ultramodern, cloud-based unified communications service.

Business Edge not only provides smart internet connectivity but also secures a customer’s office environment by offering next generation cloud firewall, advanced endpoint security for PCs and Android devices and cloud based video surveillance.

This new platform gives access to a comprehensive set of solutions they need to do business digitally, from helping them promote their business online to providing software applications to run their business underpinned by customer insights and analytics.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “Current times demand that businesses are ready to securely work and collaborate remotely. It also requires the ability to adapt to dynamic business conditions. With Business Edge’s SMBs are able to minimise upfront investments while accessing top services to manage their business according to their needs and utilisation, in a ‘pay as you grow model’.”

To find out more about Etisalat’s new business platform for SMBs, please visit etisalat.ae/businessedge.

• Etisalat prepaid customers win instant prizes every time they recharge AED30 and above

Etisalat announced the launch of ‘Wasel Gifts’ campaign, offering prepaid customers instant prizes every time they recharge. This is in line with Etisalat’s commitment to constantly show appreciation to customers and seek new ways to enhance their experience.

New and existing subscribers of Wasel and WaselGo are eligible for this benefit. The instant prize – in the form of data, local or international minutes, bonus credit or Smiles points, etc. - is instantly received when a customer recharges AED30 and above.

The campaign makes every recharge fun and exciting; customers simply recharge their prepaid account and instantly win a prize.

The minimum recharge amount is AED30. Any type of recharge is allowed, except for mobile credit transfer. Subscribers can opt-out by dialing *101*30*2#.

• Online secure business platform collaborates from any device, location and network in UAE

Etisalat today announced that it will provide free access for three months to businesses for using its online collaboration platform - Etisalat CloudTalk Meeting - to help companies maintain business continuity by providing a secure platform to collaborate from any device, location, and network in the country.

Business operations can remain uninterrupted with Cloudtalk’s unlimited video conferencing and online collaboration sessions without any additional fee for this service. The platform provides state-of-the-art features for meetings and collaborations that help in boosting business productivity and contributes to an elevated user experience.

Etisalat CloudTalk Meeting participants can use any computer with a browser, mobile phone, and tablet, or simply dial a toll-free number from any phone to join the conference. Users will be able to collaborate and communicate using advanced features like video chat, instant messaging, group chats, draw schemas, use the whiteboard, and much more with Etisalat CloudTalk Meeting.

Companies can avail additional information on Etisalat’s CloudTalk by calling toll free number 8002888.

Etisalat announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Arabtec to provide fully digitalised solutions in a bid to accelerate its digital transformation journey.

Etisalat will be digitalising Arabtec’s workforce, migrating its datacentre to the Microsoft cloud, all the way to automating its existing process with Etisalat’s Robotic Process Automation (RPA) journey. RPA is the use of software with artificial intelligence (AI) tools to automate high-volume and repetitive manual tasks that previously required human input.

Under the partnership, Etisalat will enable Arabtec to drive into the modern workplace by migrating its workforce to Office 365 and move its digital infrastructure to the Azure cloud.

Utilising Etisalat’s IoT workforce management solution, Arabtec will digitalise time and labor processes, simplify absence management and enable strategic business insights at construction site. Etisalat will also digitalise Arabtec’s existing process by introducing robotics to the workplace, resulting in improved efficiency, higher productivity and greater project completion rates.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to offer a wide range of digital solutions to Arabtec, one of the leading construction companies in the UAE, and set a benchmark in the construction sector. Through this strategic partnership, we, at Etisalat, look forward to empowering Arabtec with the latest digital technologies and smart solutions aimed at increasing operational efficiency, brand reputation and recognition.”

Peter Pollard, Group CEO, Arabtec, said: “We are excited to announce our strategic partnership with Etisalat. A partnership intended to drive forward our digital transformation journey by digitising Arabtec’s workflows and processes, introducing along the way Artificial Intelligence tools and smart solutions to further improve our productivity, efficiency, and project delivery. This partnership aligns with Arabtec’s core strategy in many fronts, accelerating our digital transformation, creating great experiences, and unlocking productivity.”

“With an ever-increasing requirement of cloud adoption, our very first Middle East datacentres launched in the UAE promises intelligent cloud technology to soar across industries and leverage a range of ground-breaking innovations which help in better customer engagement, empower employees, optimise operations and transform products and services,” said Sayed Hashish, Regional General Manager, Microsoft UAE. “Microsoft and Etisalat shares a vision of enabling organisations like Arabtec to accelerate their digital endeavors and empowering them to be agile, lower service latency and ensure better performance.”

Etisalat’s ultramodern Open Innovation Centre welcomed students from UAE universities, as well as a French graduate business school, as part of its activities to mark the UAE Innovation Month.

The UAE Innovation Month was celebrated in February under the theme "The UAE Innovates in Preparation for the Next 50 Years". Etisalat Digital’s team led the tour of the Innovation Centre, a first of its kind in the region showcasing digital innovation, its capabilities and how digitalisation can come to life for Etisalat customers and partners.

Students from Zayed University, American University of Ras Al Khaimah and Grenoble Ecole de Management learned about the value proposition of Etisalat Digital and an overview of its portfolio. Other interesting topics of discussion included Artificial Intelligence implementation and creation; the importance of infrastructure, cyber security attacks, the Big Data platform, a predictive analysis in Internet of Things (IoT); and the role of Augmented Reality in businesses.

Etisalat is committed to supporting educational institutions and fostering innovation among students. This initiative is part of Etisalat’s ongoing efforts to support and develop the education sector in the UAE, and is aligned with the UAE Vision 2021, where the national innovation strategy has identified digital technology as one of the top seven primary national sectors.

Prof. Hany Al Kadi, Dean of Technological Innovation College of Zayed University, said: “We, at Zayed University, focus on teaching our students the highest standards of applied practices in their fields by allowing them to learn from innovative experiences inside and outside the campus. This visit to Etisalat Innovation Centre enables them to look at the use of the latest technologies such as IoT and cloud solutions. They get to realistically experience how what they study is being applied and clarify their expectations of the work environment.”

Dr. Abdul-Halim Jallad, Director and Assistant Professor of American University of Ras Al Khaimah’s Center of Information, Communication and Networking Education and Innovation, said: “We are delighted to have students and faculty from the School of Engineering at AURAK visit the Etisalat innovation centre. Students were able to see and experience real-life demonstrations of modern technologies they study and read about such as Internet of Things, Virtual Reality and cloud-based systems. We look forward to continue the collaboration and communications between AURAK and Etisalat and even expanding it over various other venues.”

The Open Innovation Centre, which opened in December 2017, highlights all the key digital technologies that will give businesses the capability to drive the digital future. Etisalat's corporate strategy is focused on 'Driving the digital future to empower the society' across our customers and enabling them with solutions on this digital journey.

• Both entities will work towards empowering K-12 education institutions with a series of digital initiatives

Etisalat Digital and Alef Education, a global K-12 education technology company, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will enable both entities to collaborate on a series of digital initiatives to empower the region’s education sector.

The announcement was made during Global Education Supplies and Solutions (GESS) Exhibition in Dubai, a leading education exhibition in the Middle East. The partnership between Etisalat and Alef Education will focus on combining both companies strengths in the digital space and vast regional networks to drive rapid digital transformation across not only the UAE but in joint regional markets that are a focus for both organisations.

Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President, Government Sales, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with Alef Education to empower the UAE’s and regions’ education sector in line with our overall strategy of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’. This programme will enable K-12 education institutions to have access to Etisalat Digital portfolio, including our IoT platform, cloud technologies, and managed services, to accelerate future learning with technology, connectivity and digital services.”

Geoffrey Alphonso, Chief Executive Officer of Alef Education said: “We are excited to partner with Etisalat Digital to expand our partner ecosystem with organisations that have a clear focus on digital innovation. Our growth aspirations are synergistic, and with Etisalat’s commitment and focus on service excellence and digital innovation, we believe that this partnership is the start of something very exciting. We will immediately explore mutual ways to support each other’s business where Alef’s AI-powered learning platform can be made accessible through more expansive networks, with Etisalat Digital providing the underlying infrastructure and services to drive our regional and global aspirations.”

Within the MOU framework, both companies will join efforts to accelerate digital transformation in the education sector both in the UAE and other key geographies including KSA. Etisalat Digital through its advanced managed services will aim to support Alef Education in their existing deployment as well as explore synergies in markets where Etisalat Digital can bring the infrastructure, connectivity and services to power the Alef program in the K-12 education sector.

Additionally, Etisalat Digital and Alef Education will identify opportunities to get access to leading-edge platforms including IoT, Cloud technologies and 5G networks to improve service offering at schools.

• The deal creates the region’s strongest cyber security company and firmly positions Etisalat as a key enabler of secure and effective digital transformation for MEA businesses

Etisalat announced that it has completed the acquisition of Help AG, a privately held regional company specialising in the delivery of cyber security solutions and services.

Prompted by a clear synergy, this acquisition sees the integration of the cyber security capabilities of both companies to create the region’s strongest cyber security unit augmenting Etisalat Digital’s portfolio of digital security services.

This development enables Etisalat Digital established lines of business - comprising the Cloud, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence, Big Data and Analytics - to become more robust and resilient against modern day cyber threats. With its business and technological leadership and flexible business models, the company is uniquely positioned to create added value for its customers and business partners.

Commenting on the acquisition, Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer at Etisalat said: “Help AG has established itself as the region’s trusted security advisor. With cyber security playing a fundamental role in all aspects of digital business today, this acquisition fits perfectly into our strategy of being a key enabler of secure, seamless and effective digital transformation for our customers. We have full trust and confidence that Help AG’s leadership will effectively add value to our security portfolio and amplify the cyber security capabilities of our clients.”

• The ‘Medicine Drop Box’ initiative, now on its third year, is aimed at providing medicine to help poor and low-income patients

Etisalat today announced that it has once again teamed up with Al Ihsan Charity Association for the ‘Medicine Drop Box’ initiative to facilitate the donation of unused medicines by all its employees.

The donated medicines will go towards supporting Al Ihsan Medical Complex, one of the main projects being managed by Al Ihsan Charity Association in Ajman. This is a charitable pharmacy that donates free unused medicines to people in need.

Now on its third year, the ‘Medicine Drop Box’ initiative builds on the success of 2017 and 2018 when Etisalat collected AED163,385 worth of unused medicines from across its offices in the UAE through this worthy cause.

Dr Ahmed Bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is pleased to collaborate once again with Al Ihsan Charitable Society in Ajman for the third year to provide patients in need with unused medication through our ‘Medicine Drop Box’ initiative. Our CSR team has worked very closely with the charity as we realised that millions of people worldwide do not have access to basic medication and facilities.

“In the UAE, our employees would be delighted to contribute to a worthy cause especially that many of us are in possession of unused medicines that just go to waste most of the time. The unused medications can go a long way in helping poor and underprivileged patients with chronic diseases who are in need for treatment throughout the year.”

Sheikh Dr. Abdulaziz bin Ali bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chief Executive Officer of Al Ihsan Charity Association, said: “We at Al Ihsan value the role of Etisalat for its collaboration again in the ‘Medicine Drop Box’ initiative, which stems from its corporate social responsibility and participation in extending a helping hand to needy and underprivileged patients. Etisalat also contributes to promoting awareness of safe disposal methods, in addition to this humanitarian initiative having a positive impact on society and protecting the environment from pollution by preventing the disposal of surplus medicines.

“These medications are delivered to the Al Ihsan Medical Complex for sorting and classification by pharmacists and specialists in the compound, so they can dispense them to the needy patients who are unable to purchase the medicines, especially for chronic diseases, and secure the needs of patients and clients in the medical complex.”

Dr Hakki Ismail, Executive Director of Al Ihsan Medical Complex, praised Etisalat’s continuous efforts to launch this initiative. The complex has received a wide variety of medications, ointments, and nursing equipment collected from Etisalat’s previous initiatives, and raised awareness on the safe disposal of medicines to protect members of the society from the risk of unsafe disposal methods.

Established in 1990, Al Ihsan Charity Association in Ajman has been a non-profit organisation helping the needy all over the world. It was officially launched in its second phase in 1998 under the patronage of HH Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman. The charity has medical complex to provide medical care and treatment for all society segments of the poor, needy, orphans, widows, and thousands of families.

Etisalat distributed specifically designed pouches among its employees to collect unused medicines. A large Eticare box in the shape of a medicine box has been placed in the foyer of Etisalat’s buildings across the UAE for employees to drop off their medicines from 16th to 20th February 2020.

Medication must not have expired and should be valid for at least six months, and syrups and ointments donated must not be open and do not require to be refrigerated.

• Special mobile package for Captains goes live today

Hala, the joint venture between the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) and Careem that offers an innovative way to get around Dubai by enabling customers to book a Dubai Taxi on the Careem app, has partnered with Etisalat, the leading telecom operator in the UAE, to offer its Captains (taxi drivers) a generous data bundle and international minutes package, making it easier for them to be connected with their families.

Around 25,000 taxi drivers in Dubai will now benefit from the year-long postpaid package that can be activated on any existing or new Etisalat UAE mobile number. The offer commenced on the 10th of February and is one of several initiatives by Hala to improve the lives of Captains through partnerships under the guidance of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). (Watch promotional video here.)

Clemence Dutertre, CEO of Hala, said: “Connecting people, and bringing them together is a core principle of what we do at Hala, and of course our Captains are integral to this mission and our front-facing pillar. They work tirelessly everyday to keep the city moving, delivering the best service to our commuters. In return, we are committed to supporting them however we can, including ensuring they remain connected with their families, many of whom live overseas. In partnership with Etisalat, we are therefore pleased to announce the launch of ‘Further Together’, giving them access to data packages and international minutes, enabling them to speak to their loved ones and bridge the distance through technology. Bringing them closer together.”

Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President, Government Sales, Etisalat, said: “Today’s partnership with Hala to launch the ‘Further Together’ initiative is in line with our brand direction ‘Together Matters’ that highlights togetherness among its customers in today’s world of connectivity. At Etisalat, we always strive to offer the best value to our customers by forging the right partnerships to provide innovative services. The mobile package being offered to Dubai Taxi Captains will enable them to stay in touch with their customers and families back home.”

Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO, Public Transport Agency, said: “Initiatives like these make significant differences to the psychology of the drivers (captains). We are glad that taxi drivers can now avail of discounted bundle from Etisalat, which will help them connect with their families back home much more frequently thus giving them peace of mind and eventually greater customer service. RTA always seeks and supports various initiatives that boost the morale of drivers as well as raises the standards of service.”

Hala is helping its Captains adapt to the new digital economy by providing advanced mapping and journey planning tools to deliver the best ride possible. Captains have access to a wider customer base and their time is used in the best way possible, getting them quicker to their next customer in the shortest time thanks to the innovative in-car technology. As a result, they are now able to get more bookings, which have a direct impact on their daily income. In fact Hala conducted a survey in the pilot phase, which showed that 71% of captains said that their earnings had increased, and 80% were happy with the introduction of Hala and the opportunities that Hala is providing them

For more information on Hala, visit www.halaride.com, or follow Hala on social media: Facebook - @halaride; Twitter - @hala_ride; Instagram - @hala_ride.

• Video captures adrenaline-pumping freefall by Red Bull skydiver Dani Roman
• 4GB game effortlessly downloaded within 30 seconds on Etisalat’s 5G network in time for skydiver to open the parachute

Etisalat has demonstrated yet again its 5G technological prowess, this time through an adrenaline-pumping freefall from 15,000 feet.

Red Bull skydiver Dani Roman jumps off a plane on a mission: Can 5G download 4GB in time to open a parachute?

“Will Etisalat 5G be able to complete a 4GB download in time to open my parachute?” asks the Spanish professional skydiver in the video, who has been traveling and touring the skies of the world since 2016.

There’s only one way to find out, he says. Etisalat tests whether it can download a 4GB game for Mohammed Al Kaabi, an Emirati YouTuber with a channel called UAE Skills, just in time for Dani to open his parachute.

It begins as a skydive like any other, with Dani jumping out of the plane. Excitement builds as Mohammed and Etisalat’s monitoring team excitedly wait for the game to finish downloading in 30 seconds, and for Dani to pick up the cue to deploy his parachute.

With download completed, Dani deploys his parachute. Etisalat effortlessly downloads the 4GB game on its 5G network in less than the set time. In contrast, 4G could only download 0.75GB for the same duration of 30 seconds.

The video of this epic stunt can be viewed here.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports, today presented a token of appreciation to Etisalat for its strong support and participation as the official telecom partner of the third AccessAbilities Expo held in November last year.

Abdullah Salem Al Mana, General Manager, Etisalat, Dubai Region, who received the appreciation award on behalf of Etisalat, at an honouring ceremony in Dubai, said: “We are pleased to be recognised as one of the strategic partners of AccessAbilities Expo, which is in line with Etisalat’s overall strategy and vision of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies’ to get the best in technologies and services to improve their lives, integrate them in the society and enable them to overcome their daily challenges. The event is aligned with our corporate social responsibility strategy to support people of determination and facilitate their integration in communities.”

AccessAbilities Expo, a global platform that reflects the aspirations of over 50 million people of determination across the Middle East, was held on 5-7 November 2019 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Etisalat’s continuous support of the People of Determination falls in line with its long-established Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy of extending its reach, offers and services across the community. With its numerous efforts and partnerships Etisalat has always supported ‘People of Determination’ by helping them integrate into society and increase their role in the community.

Etisalat has harnessed the power of its advanced IT and communications technologies to provide discounted offers and special packages and services to people of determination. This has been clearly demonstrated in the advanced technologies Etisalat showcased at its stand during last year’s GITEX Technology Week.

WheeM-i (Wheelchairs Mobility Interface), a “wheel-on,” semi-autonomous electric vehicle that makes traveling around cities easier for people with lightweight manual wheelchairs, made its world premiere at Etisalat’s stand at last year’s GITEX. BrightSign, created by Saudi tech innovator and inventor Hadeel Ayoub, uses assistive technology to facilitate communication for individuals with speech disability.

In previous editions of GITEX, Etisalat demonstrated the innovative Mind rockets, an assistive technology that targets the hearing-impaired providing instant translation in different sign languages for websites, mobile apps, YouTube videos, etc. Virtual bionics focused on patients having missing limbs taking them to a virtual world where they can see actual hands giving their physicians better opportunities to assess their situation for better therapy.

Etisalat showcased the world’s first mass-producible, micro-braille smartwatch and smart glass for the blind. The DOT Braille Smart Watch is lightweight and offers flexibility in manufacturing and design.

Etisalat launched special Plans for People of Determination that include a 50% discount on monthly package rental for eLife Family Value Pack of TV, internet and telephone; a 50% discount on monthly package rental for home telephone; on monthly Home Internet package rental; a 50% discount on prepaid and postpaid mobile data packs; and free subscription to Internet Calling Plan on mobile and eLife while using HiU-Messenger, C’Me, BOTIM, and Voico UAE.

Etisalat marked International Day of Sign Languages last year across its 36 business centres and retail stores across the UAE. Sign language will be a permanent feature across selected business centres and retail stores in line with Etisalat’s efforts to support the UAE’s strategic objectives to integrate people of determination with various disabilities into the community.

It is a key element of Etisalat’s CSR strategy to provide equal opportunities to all, particularly that sport is a right and must be accessible to all throughout the society. Etisalat has been the main partner of various regional and international sport events for people of determination. It was the official telecom partner of both Special Olympics IX MENA Games Abu Dhabi 2018 and Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.

As part of the partnership with Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, Etisalat joined the world in March last year to celebrate the Special Olympics 50th anniversary to work together to create a new future for people of determination. In celebration of ‘Light Up for Inclusion’ - a global demonstration of tolerance, respect, and celebration of difference - Etisalat’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Al Kifaf buildings lit up in red. Etisalat also hosted the last leg of the Special Olympics ‘Flame of Hope’ journey at its Abu Dhabi headquarters.

In 2012 in London, Etisalat was a platinum partner for people of determination in sports for men and women from UAE, and then became the official partner of the UAE Special Olympics team for the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles in 2015. Etisalat was the official partner of the UAE Paralympic Committee in 2016 at the Special Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and supported the UAE Paralympic Team at the Paralympic Asian Games held in Jakarta in 2018.

Etisalat Information Services, an Etisalat subsidiary, facilitated the digital sponsorship of the Unity Run through its platform connect.ae. The Unity Run is a community event celebrating the diversity of the UAE and raising awareness of people of determination.

Etisalat invited a group of physically impaired children to the Disney Show at Dubai World Trade Centre, in coordination with various humanitarian entities, bringing joy and happiness to the determined kids. It also supported a mass wedding ceremony for special needs people, held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The initiative was aimed at sending a message that people of determination are an important part of society and have equal rights.

In line with the UAE’s vision to make the country disabled-friendly, Etisalat launched the ‘Talking Bill’ service to support people of determination by enabling visually-challenged customers to access bill summary details of their account free of charge.

• Partnership enables 5G powered by AI, public cloud and edge computing
• Facilitates delivery of next generation networks to regional customers empowering business and consumers

In a multi-year partnership, Etisalat has announced that it has teamed up with Microsoft to drive public cloud first strategy through a digital transformation program that enables Etisalat to build a digital platform infused with automation and AI providing a simplified network architecture and operations empowering Etisalat subscribers and improving customer experience.

“Today, Etisalat and Microsoft embark together on a bold new digital transformation journey that will allow us to leverage our industry expertise to deliver the next generation of networks,” said Saeed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President, Mobile Networks, Etisalat. “Keeping in line with our overall strategy and vision of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies, we at Etisalat are committed to nothing less than the total transformation of the consumer and business customer experiences. Etisalat today has transitioned to a digital service provider – the provider of choice for digital services among enterprises and SMB customers, supporting them to monetise services to generate new revenue streams. Together with Microsoft, we are building the communications network of the future.”

Microsoft Azure will power the infusion of AI capabilities into Etisalat’s network by expanding Microsoft Azure solutions into the network, and for Etisalat’s new technologies like Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) and Network Edge Computing (NEC). These will significantly speed up computing at the edge, which combined with 5G, will enable new types of applications related to smart cities, autonomous systems, gaming, AR/VR, IoT, and vision computing solutions.

“Our partnership with Etisalat is further demonstration of the trust regional enterprises place in the intelligent Microsoft Cloud,” said Sayed Hashish, General Manager, Microsoft UAE. “Our mission is to empower every individual and organisation on the planet to achieve more. Etisalat’s digital transformation journey centres on a public-cloud-first strategy including network workloads. Its partnership with Microsoft is designed to merge its telecommunications capabilities with our intelligent cloud solutions, including artificial intelligence and self-healing networks.”

• First private hospital in the UAE to launch the service
• Etisalat Digital to provide a specialised telemedicine software platform

American Hospital, part of Mohamed & Obaid Al Mulla Group and one of the leading pioneers of private healthcare in the Middle East, today announced that it has partnered with Etisalat Digital to launch the first-of-its-kind telehealth service in the private sector as a continuation of its mission to provide clinical excellence to patients in need.

This strategic partnership was revealed during the ongoing Arab Health 2020, the largest gathering of healthcare and trade professionals in the MENA region.

The new service is in line with the Fifty-Year Charter launched earlier in 2019 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The telehealth service will enable UAE residents to request and avail remote medical consultations with the doctors of American Hospital by utilising the Etisalat communication platform service for advanced voice, video conferencing, and collaboration technologies via a mobile app or web browser. By delivering these technologies in scalable, flexible, and operational, commercial models, Etisalat Digital is addressing some of the primary barriers to adoption of new technologies.”

Patients utilising this service through American Hospital gain access to high-quality healthcare services and connect face to face with a medical doctor who will take the patient’s history and symptoms and perform an exam. Moreover, telemedicine doctors can treat different types of diseases including cold and flu, urinary tract infections, allergies, headaches, sprains and skin conditions. As a result, telemedicine can reduce the geographical distance and enhance the efficiency of health resources

Sherif Beshara, Chief Executive Officer of Mohamed & Obaid Al Mulla Group, said: “Medical well-being is integral for the progress of our nation and its people, and we are consistently seeking Artificial Intelligence methods to reach as many patients as possible and in the fastest time. As a result, our partnership with Etisalat Digital comprises a giant step forward for our consultation services and further consolidates American Hospital’s position as a beacon of medical service and expertise in the region and beyond.”

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to partner with American Hospital, one of the leading hospitals in the region that applies advanced technologies to improve quality of care. This project reinforces Etisalat’s approach in redefining healthcare through innovative technologies like telemedicine consequently enhancing patient experience for smart and efficient delivery of healthcare in the United Arab Emirates.”

• Increases in brand value to $8.5bn as the most valuable consumer brand in MEA
• Portfolio of brands now touching $11bn
• Most valuable telecom brand in MEA for 4th consecutive year
• The only telecom brand in MEA to retain AAA brand rating

Etisalat today set another milestone by coming out on top again as ‘The Most Valuable Consumer Brand’ and ‘The Most Valuable Telecom Brand’ in Middle East and Africa (MEA) by Brand Finance as a recognition for the success and growth of the brand spurred by digital customer service driven strategy and engaging with consumers across markets with innovative global branding initiatives.

Based on the report from Brand Finance, world’s leading independent brand valuation and strategy consultancy, Etisalat boasts of an impressive portfolio of brands touching $11bn including Etisalat Misr, Mobily, Ufone, Maroc Telecom and PTCL. The brand has also demonstrated consistent performance over the years retaining its title as the most valuable telecom brand for the fourth year in a row.

The brand value increased to $8.5 bn as the most valuable consumer brand in MEA for a third consecutive year on a standalone basis. Etisalat is also the only telecom brand to retain AAA brand rating.

David Haigh, CEO, Brand Finance said: “Etisalat is the most consistent performer in the Middle East & Africa and the winner of the most valuable consumer brand title in our Global 500 for a 3rd year running. It is amongst the most innovative players globally with its portfolio of brands approaching a brand value of $11 billion. Etisalat has a whole new set of digital solutions coming through which are presented during GITEX every year and its fast roll out of 5G, set to become the backbone of the Expo 2020 showcase when it kicks off in October.”

Eng. Saleh Abdullah Al Abdooli, CEO, Etisalat Group said: “Reaching the top is hard but maintaining a leadership position is harder. With the regional leadership of Etisalat as a brand it is a testimony to our continuous efforts in digital transformation amplifying our efforts in the societies we serve by investing in new digital platforms, 5G technologies and global brand building initiatives.

“Inspired by our ambitious and digitally fueled vision ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’ Etisalat has taken the lead in the launch of 5G in MENA opening a world of opportunities and spurring innovation in the government and industries providing a platform to enable future technologies to become an integral part of our economy and lifestyle. This achievement also reinforces the synergy of operating companies across our footprint, creating brand loyalty and enhanced engagement with our customers. Thanks to the UAE leadership’s support, vision and encouragement that helped Etisalat achieve this significant milestone surpassing some of the top renowned regional brands.”

Etisalat as a brand has played a growing role in fulfilling the UAE’s National Innovation Strategy and its dominant influence in shaping the region’s digital future are behind its continued success. Operating in 16 countries with 148 million subscribers across Asia, Middle East and Africa, Etisalat’s success can also be attributed to its continued efforts in developing its customer loyalty programmes, sports sponsorship commitments and in driving the digital future to empower societies.

Etisalat pioneering 5G efforts in the region and delivering one of the fastest, smartest and best-connected places on earth during the global mega Expo 2020 Dubai has attributed to its success as a brand in the region. As the premier digital services and telecommunications partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, Etisalat is prepared to deliver the event’s visitors and delegates 5G connectivity that brings the Expo themes to life for the 25 million expected visitors.

Several factors have attributed to the success and growth of Etisalat’s brand value mainly driven by an innovative customer service strategy, adapting well to a digital savvy marketplace, leading the 5G revolution and the successful launch of global brand building initiatives. Etisalat has also led digital innovation in the country by working on several digital initiatives in infrastructure, entertainment and smart cities.

Etisalat has reached out and engaged with its consumers across markets with global branding initiatives by sponsoring global football teams and clubs aligning with the brand’s priorities of being at the forefront of major sporting events. Etisalat also launched the new positioning campaign ‘Together Matters’ to highlight togetherness among its subscribers in today’s world of connectivity.

Brand Finance, is the world’s leading independent branded business valuation and strategy consultancy, and is the organisation behind the Global 500 Brands and Telecom 300 league table of the world’s biggest brands ranked by their brand value, assesses the dollar value of the reputation, image and intellectual property of the brand.

• Dr Bin Ali highlights the adoption of smart technologies for the media industry
• 5G to boost the quality of the media’s interaction with its audiences
• Ultra-latency and speeds to support reporters in the field specifically for breaking news and multi-location interviews for the TV industry
• New sources of revenues from advertising and content and wider outreach
• Hologram reporters to become a reality in the future

The media plays an increasingly significant role in our lives as a trusted source for news and information, and beyond that also a source for entertainment. It is also a powerful communications platform for the society with the ability to influence people’s opinions and perceptions therefore making a significant social impact at all levels, highlighted Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat.

His presentation was part of Etisalat’s participation in the meeting of the Secretariat General of the Arab League - the 15th meeting of the Arab Digital Media Committee – from 12th -13th January held at the Dubai Press Club headquarters organised by Watani Al Emarat Foundation.

Dr Bin Ali said the media industry has undergone drastic transformation in recent years, and mainly due to the major technology advancements the world has witnessed.

He went on to highlight the advances in technology and how it has facilitated the growth of the media sector. The investments in 5G networks will play a significant role making a positive impact on media and journalism. 5G has superior capabilities with high speeds and ultra-low latency. Live feed news coverage for reporters in the field specifically for breaking news and multi-location interviews for the TV industry were cited as examples for the future of media on the 5G network.

The high data download/upload speeds will benefit all journalists, particularly investigative reporters. These advanced capabilities will also be of immense benefit in media coverage of major popular events, especially large-scale ones such as the upcoming Dubai Expo 2020.

This will enhance the broadcasting capabilities for external coverage mobile media hubs, create futuristic media platforms, and augment the services of content providers. High speeds and low latencies would also boost the quality of the media’s interaction with its audiences.

5G technology will make hologram reporters a reality; people in the future would go beyond than virtual reality being able to experience the news event through advanced immersive experiences technology.

Currently globally there are 5 billion smart phone users with the number projected to surpass 7.2 billion within the coming 5 years or less. 5G data usage will comprise of 25 percent of the total global data transfer share.

Video and immersive experiences will form the core of future 5G network capabilities giving users near life-like experiences with maximised levels of 2-way interactions.

5G networks will have a significant and positive outcome for the media and entertainment industry. There will be a transformation for fixed networks, elevating financial returns, create new revenue streams from advertising and content and have a wider outreach.

He concluded his talk by pointing out that it is imperative that we have media entities ready and willing to adopt these new technologies in order to ensure its leading regional and global status.

Etisalat announced the launch of a first-of-a-kind cloud-based business unified communication and collaboration service for small and medium businesses (SMB) and enterprise customers in the UAE.

Etisalat has partnered with Ribbon Communications to provide customers with a secure, scalable, and cloud-native business communication and collaboration solution. Etisalat’s CloudTalk offers customers an integrated communication solution for their internal and external communication and collaboration needs.

The service is delivered over a carrier-grade cloud private branch exchange (PBX) replacing the legacy setups. Transformation is rapid and performance is optimum with minimal time needed for deployment. The pay-as-you-grow model gives customers the flexibility to work in multi-channel communication environments, minimising upfront investments and focusing on productivity rather than infrastructure.

The hassle-free solution gives users the ease of switching between various devices seamlessly in real-time from any location. The state-of-the-art features such as instant messaging, video conferencing, screen sharing and mobile app, among others, contribute to an elevated user experience leading to better productivity.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are delighted to launch CloudTalk along with our partner Ribbon Communications. The agile, secure, and cloud-based solution will be beneficial for businesses looking to simplify their complex communication infrastructure. The launch of this unique platform enables Etisalat to be a single provider for cloud telephony, offering comprehensive tools at a viable price. We at Etisalat are committed to delivering innovative technology blended with superior service levels that help businesses embark on their digital journey.”

Patrick Joggerst, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Business Development of Ribbon Communications, said: “Our cloud-native solutions help enable the intelligent and secure real-time communications solutions today’s businesses are embracing. We are proud to support this ambitious new undertaking as Etisalat continues to showcase its leadership position in digital transformation.”

Etisalat today announced the successful launch of open virtual Radio Access Network (Open vRAN), becoming the first operator in MENA to achieve this technological feat. By supporting Open architecture, Open vRAN technology accelerates the delivery of mobile networks. The technology is the foundation of next-generation wireless infrastructure driven by innovation and open standards.

Today’s announcement demonstrates Etisalat’s strong commitment to sustaining its technological leadership, by bringing in such technological advances. Etisalat has become one of the first operators worldwide to launch this technology.

The success of this deployment by Etisalat was possible with the collaboration of Etisalat partners Altiostar, NEC, Cisco and other leading vRAN technology vendors. The solution combines scalability enhancement and virtual networks achieved by integrating equipment from various vendors. Using commercial off the shelf (COTS) hardware from third parties, Etisalat is transforming the hardware network to a software-based one.

The vRAN architecture approach decouples the programmable RAN software elements from the hardware, allowing generally available hardware (generic pre-processer) and server platforms to process the RAN software. This results in deployment flexibility, scalability, agility, energy efficient networks through reducing hardware elements on the network. Open vRAN approach reduces time to market, as it is quicker to deploy mobile networks than traditional deployment methods. Additionally, network capacity augmentation and optimisation is enhanced by the simplification of nodes and enabling new automated methods and AI algorithms.

Saeed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President, Mobile Network at Etisalat, said: “Keeping in line with Etisalat’s strategy of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’, deploying the Open vRAN is vital in enabling digital transformation aimed at increasing efficiencies and the utilisation of AI. Today’s announcement is aligned with UAE’s objectives of achieving digital transformation with the deployment of best-in-class technologies. Etisalat now plans to roll out Open vRAN across the UAE to take full advantage of all the benefits that this new technology offers.”