• Plethora of services created to empower the medical sector
• Etisalat’s Cloud Electronic Medical Record solution optimised for SMB clinical practices

Etisalat today announced the launch of Business Edge Healthcare platform, a plethora of services dedicated to enhance and empower hospitals, ambulatory practices and medical staff with seamless, secure and practical solutions to enhance day-to-day operations in all business phases of the various departments.

This falls in line with UAE’s leadership’s vision and the Department of Health’s (DoH) overall objectives of enabling the use of digital health supporting clinics utilising digital technologies to improve health, care delivery, and informed decision-making for a better patient experience.

Dr. Hamed Ali Al Hashemi, Advisor to DoH Chairman at Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “We welcome the launch of Etisalat’s healthcare platform that will further boost the digital transformation process of healthcare in Abu Dhabi with locally hosted solutions. This will entice all market participants to adopt digital solutions that will enable them to provide a higher standard of patient care, as our joint goal.”

Etisalat’s Business Edge Healthcare platform offers various business benefits to the health care sector. The pre-integrated telemedicine module allows doctors to conduct live video consultations with their patients. The cloud electronic medical records (EMR) solution on the platform is HIE (Health Information Exchange) ready as well as a clinical care and telehealth solution optimised for small to medium-sized clinical practices providing ambulatory care to patients.

Etisalat’s Business Edge Healthcare solution hosts a number of benefits such as quick set-up and provisioning; a monthly subscription with no significant upfront cost; and a customisable solution with a built-in modular approach. It also covers all outpatient department operations, including scheduling and patient check-in and checkout.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “The emergence of COVID-19 and its devastating impact have brought irrevocable changes to our lives and the global economy. This demands agile solutions that empower frontline workers with the best in technology and continuous access to health services in a safe and convenient way. This solution is a testimony to bringing digital transformation to small businesses as it provides tools and services that will help them achieve a world-class healthcare system.”

Other benefits include an intuitive patient app available on iOS and Android app stores; an interoperable solution with capabilities to integrate with other healthcare solutions; and a complete clinical documentation module allowing patient transactions and records. Laboratory and X-ray results will be securely stored on the cloud, while a “speech to text" feature will make it easier for clinicians to capture patient history and charts.

The solution also features a video surveillance as a service and a thermal camera solution to detect elevated skin-surface temperatures and reduce false alarms, analyse and track with the point of sale service, cloud hosted end point security guaranteeing protection from the most invasive cyberattacks, unified communications, managed Wi-Fi solutions and managed devices.

• Second cohort – the largest single day intake by far in the company’s history of Emirati graduates - is welcomed to Etisalat’s AI Graduate Programme
• More than 75 percent of those 100 are female talent

Etisalat marked a historic Emiratisation milestone with the record intake of more than 100 graduates to the AI Graduate Programme in 2021.

This record achievement comes on the heels of Sunday’s onboarding of over 60 graduates to the second cohort – the largest by far in the company’s history – to the programme.

In line with the ambitious vision of the UAE leadership, Etisalat continues to put an emphasis on gender diversity in the workplace and has strengthened its commitment to empower women. It is worth noting that more than 75 percent of the 100 onboarded Emirati graduates are female talent with STEM education.

By investing in the UAE’s future leaders, Etisalat enables graduates to build capabilities in emerging technologies and leadership skills to help them lead the country’s digital future. The graduates onboarded to the second cohort of the year will follow the AI Power Track, which will focus on developing AI skills and nurturing power skills.

These graduates will begin an exciting and challenging nine-month journey in three phases: understanding data literacy and analysis, deep-diving into power skills such as communication and decision-making, and learning AI for Business Leaders and Leadership Development.

During the orientation day, Dena Al Mansoori, Group Chief Human Resources Officer of Etisalat, welcomed the second cohort to the Etisalat AI Graduate Programme.

Addressing the graduates, Al Mansoori said: “We are beyond excited to welcome 100 talented graduates to the Etisalat AI Graduate Programme this year. Regardless of career choice, the age of artificial intelligence and automation is here so it is critical we nurture the future leaders and digital archiects of tomorrow with the right skills from day one to ensure you are all ready for a rapidly changing, technology-driven world.”

Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Corporate Strategy and Governance Officer, Etisalat Group, meanwhile said: “I am in awe of your energy and determination. Six months ago, hiring 100 graduates would seem an impossible feat within Etisalat but it is indeed possible. After all, we are nation that is committed to achieving the impossible. Thank you for making this happen.”

Al Shamsi joined the organisation as a young graduate nearly 30 years ago and grew his career through multiple roles and transitions in digital, marketing, and strategy and corporate governance.

The Etisalat AI Graduate Programme is supported by on-the-job learning, business-critical projects and real-life cases to provide the next generation of leaders with authentic learning experiences that will set their career pathways up for success.

The programme is designed to combine power skills and deep technical certification in partnership with leading educational partners such as Udacity, Alliance, Harvard Business Review, MIT, LinkedIn, and Udemy. Each graduate will receive a personal development plan along with mentorship, coaching, and regular feedback

The candidates joining this cohort were selected through an intense ‘Thinkathon’ where they were challenged to produce and present solutions to business cases unlike the candidates who joined in October who went through a ‘Hackathon’. With the onboarding of exceptional young talent and capabilities, Etisalat is further geared to deliver the vision ‘To drive the digital future to empower societies’.

• Portfolio starts from 500Mbps and introduces more affordable Giga speeds
• Combination of 4K & HD TV and digital entertainment services
• Music, gaming, online shopping & on-demand benefits

Etisalat today announced that launch of eLife Ultra, the next generation portfolio of home internet plans, designed to meet UAE families’ home connectivity and digital needs, delivering world-class internet speeds combined with the best 4K and HD TV channels and a range of digital benefits.

The all-new plans deliver Video On Demand TV entertainment, TV gaming, music, lifestyle benefits and much more. All these added services are to meet the changing needs of families today, that has moved beyond just home internet and TV content, with the pandemic changing the way people consume services and go about their digital lives. With this in mind, Etisalat introduced the eLife Ultra portfolio that aims to address these changing needs and embrace the digital future for families in the UAE.

The launch of the eLife Ultra portfolio also marks an important milestone towards enabling the UAE to become a ‘Giga Nation’. The introduction of the 1 Gbps Fusion plan at AED 999 is a game changer towards facilitating broad based adoption of Giga speeds.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer of Etisalat, said: “The new portfolio of services from Etisalat is testimony to our commitment to both address the diverse needs of families in the UAE and enable the UAE to become a ‘Giga Nation’ by making Giga speeds much more accessible. This is also in line with our strategy to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’, transitioning from a service provider to becoming a curator of digital experiences, delivering the most engaging content and services with the best-in-class home internet speeds. The new elife Ultra range of plans will bring incredible value to families with the ability to stream the best of entertainment, play games and enjoy hi-res quality music, along with the simplicity of shopping from home.”

The eLife Ultra portfolio launches with three plans: eLife Ultra Starter, eLife Ultra Sports, and eLife Ultra Fusion. The entry-level package, eLife Ultra Starter offers subscribers high speeds of 500Mbps available at AED429 while eLife Ultra Sports at AED699 comes at a speed of 750Mbps. At AED999 the all-new eLife Ultra Fusion with 1Gbps affordably introduces Giga speeds and includes the complete OSN and beIN ULTIMATE line-up.

To celebrate the launch of these first-of-its-kind plans in the UAE, eLife Ultra will also be launched with a free limited time speed boost promotion of an additional 250Mbps on eLife Ultra Starter and Sport. This promotion will increase the standard speed of the eLife Ultra Starter to 750Mbps and eLife Ultra Sports to 1Gbps.

eLife today is the most popular entertainment service offering a wide range of TV content to viewers from all around the world and with the new plans further expands this with the inclusion of STARZPLAY and Amazon Prime into the core offering.

STARZPLAY is the number one streaming service in the MENA region, and offers customers access to thousands of hours of premium content including blockbuster movies, exclusive TV shows same-time-as-US, kids content, Arabic and Turkish series, anime shows and live sports like UFC, rugby, AFC football competitions and cricket.

Amazon Prime brings members the best of shopping, savings and entertainment with a range of membership benefits including free One-Day Delivery on thousands of products, free international delivery on millions of products from Amazon US and UK, and exclusive shopping deals. Prime members also have access to popular and award-winning entertainment, including Amazon Originals, with Arabic subtitles and dubbing on Prime Video, in addition to free games and in-game content every month with Prime Gaming.

For the growing gaming community in the UAE, eLife TV Gaming is available with unlimited access to over 70+ premium-grade games in HD quality. eLife TV Gaming is included on eLife Sport and Fusion plans, and a wireless gaming controller is also included so customers can start playing instantly.

Music lovers have access to an introductory offer of a three-month Deezer family subscription, included in the eLife Ultra Sport and eLife Ultra Fusion plans. Apart from the impressive library of music across different genres and moods, Deezer also offers exclusive access to Rotana content, which is particularly relevant to Arab audiences. Sports fans get access to the beIN Ultimate package included with the eLife Ultra Sports and Fusion plans.

The new benefits in the portfolio also include free food delivery with Etisalat’s award-winning Smiles app.

Existing eLife customers have the opportunity to upgrade to the new eLife Ultra plans to enjoy these new home Internet speeds, superior TV content and digital entertainment services. Customers have an option to sign up for a 24-month contract or a monthly option. For more information on ‘eLife Ultra’ packages, visit www.etisalat.ae/elife (T&C apply).

• A next-generation console, instant access to over 100 games with Xbox Game Pass and online multiplayer: all this with Xbox All Access, now available in the UAE market, exclusively with Etisalat

Etisalat announced that it is exclusively bringing Xbox All Access, the all-inclusive programme for a next-gen gaming experience, to the region.

The highly anticipated all-inclusive programme includes a next-generation console of one’s choice between Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S, depending on one’s preferences, and a 24-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which includes a library of over 100 high-quality games and instant access to EA Play.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are thrilled to open a new chapter in our strategic partnership with Microsoft. A first in the region, Etisalat exclusively brings the much-awaited Xbox All Access by Microsoft to the region.

“As the world's fastest mobile network, Etisalat offers low latency and fastest speed to gamers, establishing itself as the best network for gamers and a key player in the gaming world. Our partnership with Microsoft brings us one step closer to this vision.”

“We are delighted about entering into this exciting partnership with Etisalat,” said Henrik Ertman Baunsgaard, General Manager, Consumer Channel Sales and Marketing, Middle East and Africa, Microsoft. “Xbox All Access gives our customers everything they need to get into gaming with Xbox – not only an Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S console, but also a library of over 100 high-quality games for console and PC with 24-months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate included. Together with Etisalat, we look forward to bringing the best that Xbox has to offer to passionate players in the UAE.”

Xbox All Access allows all video game enthusiasts to opt for two different packages, both including Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, based on the console they want : Xbox Series S, the smallest Xbox hardware ever, capable of offering next-generation performance, is priced at AED99 for 24 months; while it will be AED139 per month for 24 months for those who prefer to play with Xbox Series X, the fastest and most powerful Xbox console ever. All prices are VAT inclusive.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes access to online multiplayer with Xbox Live Gold; an EA Play membership; brand new games on day one from Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda Softworks, as well as select indies and blockbusters; over 100 high-quality games to play with friends on console and PC; and up 20 percent off select games in the Xbox Game Pass library, and up to 10 percent off on game add-ons, Deals with Gold, and Games with Gold. Video game enthusiasts will get to enjoy free perks, including in-game content, consumables, and more.

• More than four decades of investment and long-term planning
• Global benchmarks in the network setting a path for digiticising the future

Etisalat today has made global strides in 5G by setting a benchmark right from the launch of the network to the services with its infrastructure ready to support all 5G devices and future solutions backed by the continuous investments in technology and innovation on the network enabling superior 5G connectivity.

The continuous support and wise leadership of the UAE celebrating its golden jubilee this year has played a critical role throughout Etisalat's journey and the development of the telecom sector, setting a great motivation for Etisalat to continue deploying the latest innovative technologies and enriching the digital experience of customers while transforming communities.

Etisalat has built thousands of 5G sites until today to enable 5G coverage across the country. The network was ready to provide the service as soon as the 5G mobile handsets were available in UAE. Our management’s strategy to focus on digital innovation and to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’ have led to investments in superior and state-of-the-art technology solutions on the network.

With a landmark achievement in speed, Etisalat offers consumers the world’s fastest 5G download speed of 9.1Gbps. This is a result of building a robust network that empowered this leap in the 5G era to offer a speed 30 times faster than a 4G average throughput. This had a significant and profound change on individuals, industries, society and the economy, transforming how we live and work.

5G has all the capabilities to enable industries break any barriers in embracing and accelerating their own digitalisation journey. Etisalat has set milestones all the way, from making the first live 5G video call from the world’s tallest and iconic tower ‘Burj Khalifa’ to becoming the first operator to enable a metro station, transform a smart district to empowering an international racing track with 5G connectivity.

Today Etisalat has set benchmarks for the industry backed by the infrastructure accomplishments made in the past that have complemented the 5G network. Etisalat took the lead in the launch of 5G in the MENA region targeting opportunities to maximise value from the delivery of end-to-end 5G enabled solutions. Etisalat has continuously engaged with relevant stakeholders to deploy and monetise from the 5G network while at the same time testing and exploring new 5G use cases for the government, business and different industries.

Etisalat’s journey towards 5G
Etisalat embarked on its 5G journey in 2014 when it started constructing the network with a dedicated team of engineers and specialists to build one of the most advanced networks in the region.

In 2016, Etisalat Group signed a premier partnership deal with Expo 2020 Dubai, the first major commercial customer in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region to access 5G services making them one of the fastest, smartest and best-connected places in the world.

Another significant milestone in 2016 was the successful completion of the first live 5G experiment using millimeter waves (mmWave). This showcase was the first of its kind in the MENA region with Etisalat becoming the first telco globally to test speeds of 71Gbps setting a new global record in data transfer speed using e-band and massive MIMO technology.

The foundation of the commercial launch was laid in 2017, where Etisalat was one of the operators globally to launch a pre-commercial 5G network in certain areas of the country demonstrating high-speed use cases in addition to the low latency feature of the 5G technology.

Today looking back at every step of the successful 5G journey, all the efforts have yielded results with the country crowned globally for 5G achievements. UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi was ranked among the fastest capitals globally in the 5G network index with the fastest median download speeds (421.26Mbps) in the first half of 2021. This remarkable achievement for the UAE reflects the ongoing efforts of Etisalat and its investments to build one of the most advanced 5G networks in the region and the world. The deployment of 5G across industries and sectors leads the way to digital transformation in UAE, pushing it to the forefront with a network that is future ready for the next generation of mobile technologies.

With the holiday season just around the corner, what better way than to snap up devices and accessories from Etisalat’s ‘Green Friday’ annual sale at heavily-discounted rates of up to 70 percent.

Green Friday boasts of a wide array of deals and discounts on devices, accessories, and smart living offering from 21st November until 30th November across Etisalat retail stores. Purchases can also be made via My Etisalat app and the website cwww.etisalat.ae.

Customers can avail up to 70 percent discount on accessories; up to 45 percent discount on smartphones; and up to 20 percent discount on smart living offering.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are delighted to launch our third ‘Green Friday’ sale in the UAE, offering our subscribers a great opportunity to enjoy the best in smart living, smartphones, and accessories. With everyone planning gifts for family and friends ahead of the holiday season, this is the best time for our customers to buy the latest devices, accessories, gaming machines, smart TVs, and more at a huge discount. The annual sale is part of Etisalat’s long term commitment to meet the varied requirements of our subscribers in the country.”

To find out more about ‘Green Friday’, please visit www.etisalat.ae/greenfriday.

Emirates Telecommunications Group Company PJSC “Etisalat Group” signed an agreement with elgrocer Ltd to acquire 100 percent of elgrocer DMCC, to support its digital ambitions by enriching its services bringing it closer to the daily lives of the consumers and unlocking synergies that drive a diversified and integrated product portfolio.

With UAE ranked as one of the highest globally in terms of smart device penetration and rated as one of the most advanced countries for online shopping and eCommerce market in MENA, this acquisition will contribute to the growing digital economy in the country.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer of Etisalat UAE, said: “Online shopping has redefined retail in the last decade with an increasing number of consumers moving to online transactions. Considering Etisalat’s leadership role in the acceleration of UAE’s digital transformation, we have been continuously working on new, innovative digital services and this acquisition is in line with our strategy to empower consumers, enhance engagement through our digital marketplace platform and drive diversification of our business.”

elGrocer’s strong online presence in the country will complement Etisalat UAE’s existing marketplace services under the brand ‘Smiles’ including online food delivery, lifestyle offers and the ability to earn and redeem points at more than 7,000 outlets across the UAE.

Raed Hafez, CEO of elGrocer, said: “We are excited to join forces with Etisalat team giving us the opportunity to tap into their digital capabilities, advanced network and services to accelerate our strategic expansion plans. Combining our strengths backed by Etisalat’s strong base will give us full strength to capture the market opportunities ahead.”

Nader Amiri, Founder & COO of elGrocer, added: “We started the elGrocer journey to bring a new and superb grocery shopping experience to people in the UAE, and we are proud of what we have achieved so far. Now, we start a new chapter combining what we have built with Etisalat’s innovative services and Smiles’ powerful offering, as we look forward to providing customers with even more delightful experiences and benefits.”

Founded in 2015, elGrocer is a leading online marketplace for groceries operating in all seven Emirates of the UAE. It brings together major retailers and specialty stores on a single platform with more than 500 outlets and 120K products listed. In addition, elGrocer has strategic partnerships with major global and local FMCG companies for collaborations and innovative strategies to drive exposure of their brands.

• Awards to recognise achievements of the UAE business community across 10 categories

Etisalat today announced the launch of SMB Awards 2021 to celebrate the success of the business community and show appreciation for its outstanding performance and contribution to the UAE’s economy.

This year’s Awards will recognise 10 categories, namely Emirati Business, Women in Business, Digital Transformation, Artificial Intelligence, Top Sustainability, Business Mobility, Top Healthcare, CSR, Tech for Good, and SMB of the Year.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “Small and medium businesses today make up for about 98 percent of businesses in the UAE representing over 60 percent of the country’s GDP, therefore an important segment in Etisalat’s business. This is an integral component to our overall business and is driven by a commitment to the future of UAE.

“We are delighted to recognise such hardworking, dedicated and visionary leaders who have made their mission to drive their business forward. This initiative is in line with our continuous efforts to support SMBs in the UAE by creating a platform that puts a spotlight on our SMB customers, consequently solidifying Etisalat Group’s position as the preferred business partner of choice in the UAE.”

Nominations are open to business leaders and companies in 10 categories, whereby a jury panel will review the submissions and announce the winners at a finale ceremony. For further details on nomination guidelines and submission requirements, visit etisalat.ae/smbawards.

Etisalat announced a strategic partnership with the travel technology company kitmytrip to formulate a business strategy and promote Etisalat's Visitor SIMs to incoming tourists via KMT partners across the globe and various local partners at multiple international destinations.

The partnership offers international tourists visiting the UAE a seamless service to book, collect and enjoy the complete suite of Etisalat tourist services. Etisalat and kitmytrip will make it possible for guests coming to the UAE to pre-book their preferred Etisalat tourist SIMs from a wide range of international travel agencies, travel websites or travel agents using kitmytrip’s Infinity platform. On their arrival in the UAE, they can collect their SIM from any of the Etisalat retail stores across the country.

Mohamed Zakariya Al Hammadi, Director, Modern Trade, signed the agreement on behalf of Etisalat; and Saurabh Bhatnagar, Co-Founder, signed on behalf of kitmytrip, in the presence of senior officials from both parties.

Mohamed Zakariya Al Hammadi, Director, Modern Trade, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to tie up with kitmytrip in a bid to enhance our services by increasing our presence in travel and tourism along with international airport destinations. This is ideal during Expo 2020 as millions of tourists are expected to travel to the UAE and would need a local mobile connection.”

Saurabh Bhatnagar, Co-Founder, kitmytrip, said: “Under the partnership, kitmytrip will link its international network of travel partners with Etisalat's countrywide retail network. kitmytrip will enable the sale of Etisalat offerings across its international network, and will do SIM pre-bookings to be fulfilled through Etisalat’s retail network.”

• New affiliation allows Emirates Islamic Credit Card customers to exchange their EI SmartMiles for Smiles points and maximise benefits

Etisalat UAE today announced a partnership with Emirates Islamic, one of the leading Islamic financial institutions in the UAE, enabling the bank’s credit cardholders to exchange their EI SmartMiles for Smiles points to maximise benefits under Smiles’ blockchain-powered Rewards Exchange.

Cardholders can benefit from great deals on a range of Etisalat UAE and partner offers across different categories as well as avail buy-one-get-one-free offers and discounts on many of the UAE’s leading lifestyle, entertainment, wellness, and F&B outlets.

Khaled El Khouly, Chief Consumer Officer of Etisalat UAE, said: “We are delighted to welcome Emirates Islamic, one of the leading Islamic financial institutions in the UAE, to Smiles’ Rewards Exchange network, enabling Emirates Islamic card holders to avail the best value with a wide range of deals and benefits on Smiles. At Etisalat, we always strive to offer the best value to our customers by forging the right partnerships to provide innovative services.”

Farid Al Mulla, Deputy Head of Consumer Banking and Wealth Management at Emirates Islamic, commented on the partnership: “As a leading card issuer, we are pleased to expand our offering to card members through our partnership with Etisalat’s Smiles programme. We remain committed to continue to add shared value to our customer proposition, giving our cardholders the best of the UAE’s leading brands.”

Under Rewards Exchange, Smiles customers can 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.

Smiles, one of the largest lifestyle engagement programmes in the UAE, has more than 2.6 million registered members and is open to all citizens, residents and visitors of the UAE. Smiles offers everyday savings to its members through earn and redemption of Smiles points for Etisalat and partner products and services including online food ordering 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.

EI SmartMiles is the exclusive rewards programme designed for Emirates Islamic card customers and offers travel, shopping and lifestyle benefits. Customers enjoy the flexibility to redeem their EI SmartMiles for free flights, hotels, and retail transactions instantly anywhere in the world.

Etisalat Group announced that it was recognised as the ‘Best Middle Eastern Wholesale Carrier’ at the Global Carrier Awards 2021.

The Global Carrier Awards are the most prestigious awards programme in wholesale telecoms. This year, the awards ceremony took place in London alongside Capacity Europe: as a live, in-person event.

Etisalat Group is the leading wholesale service provider operating a global network and advanced wholesale data centre facilities. The extended portfolio of premium services such as voice, data, roaming, mobile services, including messaging and satellite services.

Commenting on the award, Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale (C&WS), Etisalat, said: “We are honoured to receive this award which highlights Etisalat’s core international network capabilities, reach and commitment to quality as well as its strong fundamentals, a well-developed infrastructure, and a global network of partnerships. This recognition is also largely due to the trust put in us by our valued customers and loyal partners to deliver the highest quality and innovative international services."

Etisalat Group’s C&WS has extensively invested in a state of the art technology and infrastructure that enables the digital transformation journey, with a focus on customer experience with self-service interface provisioning the service with zero touch.

Etisalat Group inaugurated a third SmartHub facility in Dubai in 2021 as well as signed the Africa-1 submarine cable. Etisalat Group’s infrastructure is optimised for various wholesale customers with a special focus on the requirements of hyper-scalers and other players that are looking for ecosystems that best suit their edge node connectivity requirements.

Etisalat Group also invested in network virtualisation to enable connectivity and services in no time using Bandwidth-on-Demand (BoD) and Software-defined Wide Area Network (SDWAN) platforms. The communications platforms such as CPaaS and UCaaS are Etisalat’s new logical evolvement for voice and messaging service, enabling its valued partners to address their digital needs. This milestone positions Etisalat Group as one of the biggest diversified carriers in the MENA region.

Etisalat Group Reports a 2 % increase in consolidated Revenues for Q3 2021 to AED 13.3 billion

With consistent performance in the first 9 months Etisalat Group management improved full year 2021 guidance for all financial indicators

Q3 Financial Highlights and Key Developments

• Aggregate subscriber base reached 155.4 million, representing Year over Year increase of 4 %.
• In Q3 2021, consolidated revenues reached AED 13.3 billion, an increase of 2 % compared to same period last year, while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 2.4 billion, an increase of 1 % compared to same period last year.
• In the third quarter, consolidated EBITDA amounted to AED 6.7 billion, and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%
• Due to consistent performance in the first 9 months Etisalat Group management improved full year 2021 guidance for all financial indicators
• Etisalat named the world’s fastest mobile network by Ookla for the second consecutive year
• Etisalat Group completed the process of increasing its foreign ownership limit in its share capital to 49 percent
• Etisalat Group signed an agreement to acquire additional stake in Maroc Telecom Group, increasing its effective ownership from 48.4 to 53.0 percent
• Etisalat Group and G42 join forces to establish UAE’s largest data centre provider
• PTCL’s Ufone won nine megahertz of spectrum in the 1,800 megahertz band
• PTCL teamed up with Dell Technologies to introduce Azure Cloud Computing Services in Pakistan
• Etisalat Misr completed the first VoLTE call using virtual IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)
• Etisalat partnered with Orange to establish an inter-network packet exchange (IPX) point at Etisalat’s smart data switch (SmartHub)
• Etisalat Digital launched cloud-based Electronic Medical Record platform to enable UAE healthcare establishments to share data instantly
• Etisalat and Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) team up to host smart services and solutions to enhance sustainable transport in the emirate
• Etisalat Digital, Accenture and Oracle partner to offer SMBs and large enterprise clients in the Middle East Oracle cloud solutions across IaaS/PaaS/SaaS
• Etisalat partner with UAE Cyber Security Council and Ministry of Education to launch an internship programme for Emirati university graduates and professionals from cyber security workforce

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group

Etisalat Group continued to deliver a steady growth in the third quarter of 2021, demonstrating agility as we address the growing and ever-changing customer needs and market dynamics across our operations. We remain focused on achieving key strategic priorities that would enable a smarter digital tomorrow while opening new opportunities to engage with business and customers alike.

We look at the future confidently with a positive outlook for our operations despite the various global macro-economic factors that are reshaping the business environment across our footprint. We will continue to channel our efforts towards enabling private and public sectors digital transformation journeys while equipping our operations with the next generation of technologies like AI and robotics to drive efficiencies. Etisalat mobile network reasserted its leadership as the fastest globally due to our sincere efforts in consistently pushing boundaries and delivering added value to our customers, shareholders, and the communities we serve.

Thanks to the vision of the UAE leadership and their continuous support to the telecom sector, inspiring us to deliver world-class networks and innovative services. We also extend our appreciation to our loyal customers and shareholders to whom we owe more success and greater achievements.

Q3 – Subscribers

In the UAE, the subscriber base reached to 12 million, while Etisalat Group aggregate subscribers reached 155.4 million representing a year on year increase of 4%.

Q3 – Revenue & Net profit

Etisalat Group’s consolidated revenue for the third quarter of 2021 amounted to AED 13.3 billion, representing an increase of 2%, while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 2.4 billion, representing an increase of 1 % compared to the same period last year.

Q3 - EBITDA

Consolidated EBITDA amounted to AED 6.7 billion, and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%.

Smart and dynamic growth through collaboration between government and private entities, academia and citizens are most essential with a reliable infrastructure as the backbone for major national transformation programmes stimulating economic growth and gearing smart cities towards a sustainable future, said Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group.

He made these comments during a panel discussion at the Forbes Sustainable Innovation Summit 2021 held at the Expo 2020 site, an event that gathered global leaders to discuss the various pillars required for sustainable innovations that are at the forefront of smart cities development agenda.

Khuloud Al Omian, Editor-in-Chief at Forbes Middle East and CEO of Arab Publisher, said: “Today’s event gathered leaders from across industries to discuss their sustainability agenda and their efforts in building smart cities and ecosystems. With the telecom infrastructure playing such a critical role in creating this transformation, Etisalat has made immense efforts in closing this gap of digital readiness enabling smart communities while achieving the fastest network in the world today.”

Dowidar’s session focused on unlocking the key to an efficient and sustainable smart city model by integrating ICT and Big Data in the right way to make cities more sustainable. He was joined by global leaders from the technology industry.

Dowidar stressed on the increasing relevance of telecom sector as a key pillar for building smart cities requiring a reliable infrastructure which is a backbone for providing seamless, end-to-end connectivity, a key enabler for all aspects of smart cities. This also requires ubiquitous broadband connectivity through a high-speed fiber optic and 5G networks acting as a platform for advanced services built on IoT, AI and machine learning.

He applauded the efforts of the UAE leadership and pointed out how the country is a perfect model for others to emulate today taking a lead globally with its cutting-edge infrastructure and the deployment of smart technologies across essential services and sectors improving the quality of life of its residents.

• Building the digital future with young Emirati talent
• Unique nine-month programme will nurture Emirati graduates in AI, machine learning, IoT, big data and analytics and prepare them to be technology leaders and shapers of tomorrow
• Unmatched opportunity to gain work-based experience and help drive the digital future

Etisalat welcomed its first cohort of talented Emirati graduates to the Etisalat AI Graduate Programme recently. These graduates will begin an exciting and challenging nine-month journey with Etisalat subject matter experts supported by digital online learning platforms with specialized tracks in these fields.

The Etisalat AI Graduate Programme will span two cohorts in 2021: the current cohort in October and the next in December. It is supported by on-the-job learning, business-critical projects and real-life cases to provide the next generation of leaders with authentic learning experiences that will set their career pathways up for success.

The programme is designed to combine power skills and deep technical certification in partnership with a specialised digital learning and talent transformation platform. It will provide them with an unmatched opportunity to gain work-based experience in multiple disciplines such as cyber security, data science, neuro-linguistic programming, machine learning, deep learning and AI.

Each graduate will receive a personal development plan along with mentorship, coaching, and regular feedback. With comprehensive on-the-job training from day one, graduates will immerse themselves in real-life business cases to produce solutions to today's challenging problems.

The candidates joining this cohort were selected through an intense two-week hackathon 'HackAI', where they competed in generating creative solutions to a series of tech challenges. This first-of-its-kind hackathon tested participants' skills across eight hypothetical challenges in AI, IT security, data analysis, Python, machine learning, and programming. Etisalat will continue to run its 'Hack AI' series as an innovative means to recruit top talent and graduates in technology.

During the orientation day, Dena Al Mansoori, Group Chief Human Resources Officer of Etisalat, welcomed the cohort to the Etisalat AI Graduate Programme and gave them a glimpse into the exciting months ahead.

Addressing the group of ambitious graduates, Al Mansoori said: "We are delighted to be part of shaping the future by developing the leaders and dreamers of tomorrow in Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Big Data and cyber security skills. In addition to these technical skills, soft power skills are fundamental, which is why a focus on areas such as communication, problem-solving, empathy, and collaboration will be a key part of your development journey."

"As an incubation hub for emerging tech and non-tech talent, Etisalat is training the next generation of leaders as part of our continuous efforts to invest in our youth and support their career growth. We are pleased to welcome young and promising Emiratis such as yourselves who are looking for a challenge and build a greater tomorrow by helping us drive the digital future."

Alia Nasser, a 24-year-old graduate with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Systems, said: "I am honoured and excited to join Etisalat and give back to my country. I can see myself being at Etisalat, a market leader, for a long period and look forward to contributing and making a positive impact."

This first cohort marks the beginning of the Etisalat AI Graduate Programme as part of Etisalat's commitment to building the digital future with our youth and empowering them to be the pioneers and leaders of tomorrow.

In line with the company's recent announcement to hire 100 national graduates by the end of 2021 in response to the UAE's NAFIS programme, Etisalat is participating in the ongoing Tawdheef 2021 and the upcoming Careers UAE.

• Ministry of Education to support in the intern selection process
• Interns to gain hands-on experience on cyber threat mitigation from Etisalat
• Plans are underway to expand the programme

The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Etisalat, announced the launch of an internship programme for Emirati university graduates and professionals who recently joined the cyber security workforce.

The programme, which runs for three months, seeks to enhance the interns’ cyber security skills and knowledge, further protect the UAE’s digital transformation, and provide them with valuable professional and business acumen skillsets. It is open to 10 UAE nationals selected by a committee composed of experts from the CSC and the Ministry of Education.

The CSC selected Etisalat to expose the interns to the essential aspects that exist within a comprehensive cyber security organisation. They will have the opportunity to work at Etisalat’s Cyber Security department, where they will be able to grasp the threats to the UAE which are responded to daily.

Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, UAE Government said: “The CSC is continuously embracing innovative ways to enhance cyber security across the UAE’s critical infrastructure. We have a great opportunity to bring young Emiratis into a critical sector of government service. Having them work with Etisalat will expose them to real threats that our nation is experiencing on a daily basis so they could prepare for, respond to, and mitigate risks associated with cyber threats today and in the future.”

His Excellency Eng. Abdul Rahman Al Hammadi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education for Performance Improvement, affirmed the ministry's preparedness to cooperate with national entities and implement various programmes and initiatives aimed at investing in young talent showing exceptional experience in vital sectors to achieve efficiency and quality.

"The launch of the UAE Cyber Security Council's internship programme, in cooperation with the Ministry and Etisalat, is a pioneering initiative in all aspects and is considered an important and proactive step to enhance the nation's capabilities in cyber security, and protection from any online attacks in light of the increased daily risks. This will result to protecting vital sectors by building a national base of youth equipped with the necessary skills to deal with any emergency electronic development in this field to achieve sustainability," Al Hammadi added.

Ayman Al Shehhi, Vice President, Network Security, Etisalat, said: “With cyber security playing a fundamental role in all aspects of digital business today, Etisalat is honoured to be part of this government initiative which aims to help train incoming cyber professionals and hone their skills to address the changing cyber threats of tomorrow. At our Cyber Security department, we will expose the interns to various cyber security domains where they will gain valuable insight and hands-on experience while working with security incidents and complex vulnerability management systems.”

The UAE Government’s Cyber Security Council has issued directives to all governmental and semi-governmental entities in the country to adopt advanced solutions in the field of cybersecurity to raise national operational efficiency, ensure business continuity, and protect against any cybersecurity attacks that would pose a potential risk. In this regard, the council has entered into a strategic collaboration with Etisalat, one of the world's leading telecom groups in emerging markets, and Help AG, the cybersecurity arm of Etisalat Digital, as part of its continuous efforts to strengthen the UAE’s critical infrastructure, improve its security posture and enhance the country's leading position in global competitiveness indicators.

The Cyber Security Council is the official agency overseeing UAE’s national cybersecurity framework, policies and implementation of best practices. The council has evaluated several security offerings provided by Etisalat and Help AG and approved Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) mitigation solutions as one of the national standards to protect government and semi-government entities in the UAE against malicious cyberattacks. All entities shortlisted by the council will receive subsidised subscription rates for the service.

Commenting on the partnership, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, said that all sectors – government and private – around the world are facing an unprecedented level of digital attacks which are increasing in size and complexity. Responding to these security threats requires close cooperation between various sectors in order to ensure the maximum degree of cybersecurity for the various vital sectors.

His Excellency added that the partnership between the public and private sectors represented in cooperation between the Cyber Security Council and the most important service providers in the country, such as Etisalat, is an essential pillar to achieve the national security agenda of the UAE and enhance protection from potential cyber-attacks.

Hatem Dowidar, Chief Executive Officer of Etisalat Group said the partnership with Cyber Security Council aims to protect government entities from malicious cyber-attacks and support the UAE leadership’s vision of bringing the country at the forefront in terms of digital transformation.

He added: “Our DDoS mitigation solutions aim to support the national cybersecurity strategy and ensure the highest standards of protection for UAE’s critical infrastructure. This service provides a multi-layered protection around the clock by specialised teams so customers benefit from threat detection and mitigation on a real-time basis, keeping businesses running uninterrupted.”

Etisalat today signed a memorandum of understanding for a four-year sponsorship deal with UAE Team Emirates, the first UAE World Tour cycling team.

Sultan Al Daheri, General Manager, Abu Dhabi Region, signed the MoU on behalf of Etisalat; and Mauro Gianetti, UAE Team Emirates' CEO signed on behalf of UAE Team Emirates, in the presence of senior officials from both parties.

Al Daheri said: "We are thrilled to be the official sponsor of UAE Team Emirates, reinforcing our deep commitment to major sporting events in the UAE and internationally, and to our growing customer base. This partnership reflects our brand association in the sports sector, highlights the positive bond between the brand and consumer, and is aligned with our objective of positioning the UAE as a leading country in the worlds sports map."

Gianetti commented: “Everyone at UAE Team Emirates is committed to growing a culture of health and wellness across the region. Over the past five years we have been able to positively contribute to the local community by inspiring and enabling cycling at all levels and this wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support of our partners. We are proud to welcome Etisalat into the UAE Team Emirates family and look forward to working together to achieve our joint objectives over the 2022 season and beyond.”

UAE Team Emirates entered the highest level of professional cycling, the World Tour, in early 2017. The team aims to represent an entire nation, the UAE, and promote a healthy lifestyle linked to the use of the bicycle. Season after season, the Emirati team has attracted a growing number of world-class riders and quality sponsors, taking them to new heights and successes in the biggest races in the world. The team has won successive Tour de France titles and boasts of the world's top-ranked road cyclist Tadej Pogacar.

• Rewards Exchange empowers customers with a one-stop shop to manage their loyalty memberships and exchange points in real-time

Etisalat announced that Shukran has joined the Smiles’ Rewards Exchange.

The new affiliation – announced on the sidelines of GITEX Global in Dubai - will allow members of Smiles and Shukran to cross-exchange points and maximise their benefits.

Launched in December 2020, the Smiles Rewards Exchange is still currently the only blockchain-powered rewards exchange in the UAE which can onboard multiple programmes and allow the flexibility of exchanging points or rewards from one programme to any other programme in real-time.

Members can cross-transfer points to benefit from deals, discounts and a range of partner offers across both platforms, with buy-one-get-one free offers and discounts on many of the UAE’s leading lifestyle, entertainment, wellness, and F&B outlets.

Smiles members can convert their Smiles points into Shukrans in multiples of 6,200 Smiles points, equivalent to 1,000 Shukrans. Through the Shukran app, members can convert their Shukrans into Smiles points in multiples of 1,200 Shukrans, equivalent to 4,000 Smiles points.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer of Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to partner with Shukran on Smiles’ Rewards Exchange, enabling both Smiles and Shukran customers to get the best value with a wide range of deals and benefits from partner offers across both platforms. At Etisalat, we always strive to offer the best value to our customers by forging the right partnerships to provide innovative services.”

Commenting on the partnership, Rahul Jagtiani, Group Director - Digital, Landmark Group, said: “We are delighted to partner with Smiles and offer our customers a new avenue to avail beneficial incentive and rewards. With Shukran, our commitment has always been towards innovation and value, enabled by robust partnerships. We continue to have our pulse on the growing demand for value-based offerings, and this new partnership is yet another way to cater to our ever-evolving customers.”

Under Rewards Exchange, Smiles customers can add loyalty memberships on one app, 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 such as Shukran.

Smiles, one of the largest lifestyle engagement programmes in the UAE, has more than 2.6 million registered members and is open to all citizens, residents and visitors of the UAE. 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.

Shukran, Landmark Group’s premiere loyalty programme is the most successful retail loyalty program in the Middle East. Encompassing Landmark’s wide array of retail and hospitality concepts, the loyalty programme has a member base of over 12+ million across eight countries, 43 brands and over 2,100 stores.

• Agreement to combine twelve data centres under Khazna Data Centers
• Mega scale plans underway to provide 300 MW to turbocharge UAE’s digital economy
• The deal to further strengthen the UAE position as a preferred destination for global technology companies

Etisalat Group and G42 announced the signing of a binding agreement to merge their data center (DC) offering in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A total of twelve data centers will be combined in a new joint venture business operating under Khazna Data Centers, creating the UAE’s largest data center provider.

G42 and Etisalat Group will each own sixty percent and forty percent of Khazna Data Centers, respectively. The agreement allows both parties to increase the value of their infrastructure assets contributed to the joint venture while also optimizing process and resource utilization, without impacting their respective commercial positioning, client relationships and leading market positions. Furthermore, Khazna Data Centers will continue to develop the existing business and explore new business opportunities, both in the UAE and abroad.

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, Chief Executive Officer of Etisalat Group, said: “Today, Etisalat and G42 are embarking on a bold new journey which will allow us to leverage our investments and expertise to deliver next generation digital infrastructure. Keeping in line with our overall strategy and vision of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies’, we at Etisalat are committed to a total transformation of customer experiences. Etisalat Group today has set the foundation for creating a market leader in this space, and together with G42, we will take this to the next level.”

Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer of G42, commented: “We are honoured to partner with a leading telecom operator like Etisalat Group and strengthen the UAE’s data center proposition and economic ambition for the future. As data storage and cloud infrastructure demand continues to rise in the UAE and globally, this new partnership between Etisalat and Khazna, our data center business, will allow the country to accelerate its digital transformation journey, propelling public and private organizations into a new era of intelligence, resilience, flexibility and commerciality. We look forward to collaborating with Etisalat Group on this exciting initiative to create value for all stakeholders and unlock positive progress for the society at large.

Hassan AlNaqbi, CEO of Khazna Data Centers, said: “The levels of data produced, stored, and analyzed is increasing exponentially in the Middle East region, driving significant demand for wholesale data centers. This growth requires a greater focus on collaboration and using shared data to drive business performance. Khazna Data Centers, with 300 MW of capacity, will be the crown jewel backing businesses’ growth trajectory and their ability to manage the level of connectivity required to effectively deliver services to partners, customer and users alike and supporting the creation of a digital ecosystem.

Salvador Anglada, Chief Business Officer of Etisalat Group, said: “Etisalat Group is excited to partner with an innovative and leading service provider such as G42. The combination of our data center capabilities will deliver a unique portfolio of infrastructure services for current customers, and will also create a market leader for the future to global hyperscalers. We believe that this transaction will further strengthen the UAE as a preferred destination for global technology companies seeking world-class presence in the region, and propel the development of the digital ecosystem in support of the growth ambitions, which UAE is well-positioned to capitalise upon.”

Closing of the transaction is subject to customary procedures, including finalisation of transaction documentation, regulatory approvals and certain administrative procedures.

• AI and robotic solutions in the spotlight for special needs, business, health, education and retail

The best of 5G empowered robotic solutions are on display on the Etisalat stand at the ongoing GITEX Global for sectors such as mobility, healthcare, retail, education and also for the special needs community highlighting a new era of communication that positively impacts the corporate world as well as the society at large.

Like every year, humanoid robots attract a lot of attention on the stand, with Dr Alfred from Mesmer welcoming visitors with his human bone structure, skin texture and expressions conversed with visitors as a medical professional. Roboy was the other humanoid robot that is completely muscoskeletal-the robot has muscles and tendons like humans do highlighting how it can help with remote assistance of patients.

For the special needs community, the exoskeleton from Human In Motion was a crowd puller with advances in assistive technology and next generation robotic solution allowing for natural walking and self-balancing capabilities to a crippled person. Alba robot was another autonomous mobility service that will support passengers with reduced mobility to become more independent especially for hospitals, airports and museums. The Haptx glove was a unique showcase that displaces the skin with 133 points of tactile feedback per hand achieving a new level of realism which are being used for VR training, design and robotics.

In the business area, Meltin's avatar robotic hands controlled wirelessly in a hazardous environment with zero latency highlighting how remote operability can be powered by the 5G network. At the same time, there were the robotic solutions with virtual reality from Sense glove that allows its users with haptic technologies to feel shapes and textures that can help improve healthcare/assistive mobility outcomes.

Huawei 5G robotic assistant was another example how such solutions can be used in a high precision industrial operation to respond in real time over the 5G network. Tactile robotic arms from Shadow Robotics considered to be the world's first haptic robotic system transmits touch feedback to an operator located anywhere in the world.

The potential of 5G technology within healthcare is immense bringing in valuable support to medical professionals as well as patients by offering in more accuracy, convenience, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. These include technologies such as telehealth, remote surgery, using wearable devices for real-time monitoring, assistive surgery, AR/VR integration and more.

BEC's hospital of the future displayed a surgical robot, movable bed robotic arm and an x-ray scanner robot. This area also had on display a surgical robotic arm from Doosan robotics that can join sensitive operations and operate precisely with remote support by surgery experts.

The robogym also made a presence here as the world's first personalised robotic strength training system that captures athlete's movements in real time.

Etisalat and Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) have teamed up to enhance their cooperation in a host of smart services and solutions in a bid to enhance sustainable transport in the emirate of Sharjah.

Under a partnership agreement, the parties will jointly develop and establish a long-term strategic collaboration, with Etisalat appointed as the transport authority’s digital, ICT and smart solutions service provider. Both are set to embark on a joint project to fulfill SRTA’s existing and future requirements, transforming its services into smart services.

Masood M Sharif Mahmood, CEO, Etisalat UAE, signed the agreement on behalf of Etisalat; and His Excellency Engineer Youssef Al-Othmani, Chairman, signed on behalf of SRTA in the presence of senior officials from both parties on the sidelines of GITEX Global in Dubai.

Abdel Aziz Hamad Taryam, General Manager - Northern Emirates, Etisalat said: “Etisalat is keen to enable SRTA access to the latest technologies and smart solutions to help realise its sustainable transport objectives. These efforts epitomise Etisalat’s strategic vision of ‘Driving the digital future to empower societies’. We look forward to working closely with the SRTA in developing technologies and initiatives to address its existing and future requirements.”

His Excellency Engineer Youssef Al-Othmani, Chairman, Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority, stressed the importance of government partnerships to enhance the development process in the Emirate of Sharjah, enabling institutions to unify their efforts to execute development projects according to the highest international standards and to meet the needs of citizens and residents in all sectors.

His Excellency pointed out that the strategic MoU with Etisalat, embraced recently by the Executive Council of the Emirate of Sharjah, is a continuation of the existing relations and cooperation between the authority and Etisalat, resulting in several achievements that aim to facilitate the lives of the residents and visitors of the emirate. The partnership will also contribute to opening horizons for upcoming projects, characterised by the use of the latest technologies and the best ways to enable the authority to harness artificial intelligence to fulfill its future projects.

• End-to-end solutions on display with integrated payment facility, wearables and facial recognition

Etisalat is demonstrating the retail spaces of tomorrow at GITEX Global 2021 with futuristic solutions that will transform the brick-and-mortar experience setting the pace for digital retail and enabling a digital experience for consumers.

With 5G connectivity, digitisation is a reality and during this year’s edition, the demonstrations will help visitors witness the evolution of retail and experience a connected store at the same time. Now with the 5G network, it will become a critical enabler of these futuristic use cases opening up a world of opportunities for the retail sector.

The main sections of smart retail focus on grocery smart checkout solutions, food and beverages, lifestyle and connected fashion and retail dashboard. There are advanced AI use cases, machine learning and computer vision all with Etisalat’s payment’s functionality integrated to demonstrate the capability of providing complete end-to-end solutions in this domain with enhancements like wearables and facial recognition for payments.

As soon as a visitor enters the smart retail area, it’s a futuristic experience. They begin their shopping experience with a Caper smart cart enabled by AI moving to an augmented shopping experience from Innovent ( Mojix) with a backend dashboard simulating all transactions, biometrics from Fujitsu’s Fulcrum adds to the contactless experience and a smart check out from Bizerba.

Other retail solutions just add to the holistic retail experience: advanced delivery solutions from Kiwibot; an unmanned store technology called Vicki with automated vending machine; and Pickey’s smart wearable captures all actions made by the user. SuperHii highlights a seamless checkout solution, which is also a great example of how Etisalat’s eWallet and Smiles can be integrated.

For those in need of that well-deserved coffee or smoothie break, Ella, Knext and Alberts' automated solutions are another example of unmanned retail technology. Even this year, smart garden solutions are on display from Natufia, highlighting how IoT and connected machines can get one fresh vegetables every day.

• Multiple smart mobility solutions powered by 5G

Etisalat is once again putting jaw-dropping demonstrations at its stand during this year’s GITEX, offering a glimpse into the future of mobility with the transformative power of 5G and futuristic technologies.

The future of transport – as witnessed at Etisalat’s stand – will rely on the 5G network for its high latency and the communication between sensors of the vehicles and other objects.

Airspeeder, the world's first electric flying racing car, is making a presence for the first time in the UAE with its prototype hosted by Etisalat at its stand. This single-seat electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle can hit a top-speed of 160kph. Enabling an even faster connection between autonomous systems Etisalat's 5G networks, machine learning and autonomous and remote driving systems will offer new application options, advancing the development of autonomous solutions such as Airspeeder.

Making a grand entrance this year are the Mercedes-Benz autonomous vehicles. One of them is the EQS, the first all-electric saloon from Mercedes-EQ, which is the first model to be based on the modular architecture for luxury and executive-class electric vehicles. The AI with adaptive software gives the owner the freedom to choose from an array of infotainment and functions.

From neighbourhoods to campuses to urban city centres, Olli is the smart, safe, and sustainable shuttle. Etisalat's 5G networks are designed to significantly reduce latency and solutions such as Olli are using this to improve sending and receiving data.

5G is paving the way for a new generation of robots and assisted mobility solutions such as the ALBA Robot, which supports passengers with reduced mobility, to become more independent. It is a great solution for facilities such as hospitals, airports and museums.

Doosan DMI's autonomous drone has a six-hour operation time to operate extensive trips, solve problems and secure areas. This showcase is being powered by 5G, machine learning, and autonomous surveillance. To be effective, this solution requires ultra-high bandwidth data with near-zero latency, which is provided by Etisalat, making sending and receiving data easier.

KiwiBot is the largest robot delivery infrastructure in the world. This showcase brings to reality Etisalat's technologies such as 5G autonomous and remote driving as well as retail solutions such as payment and authentication, a connected retail dashboard, Etisalat eWallet, and Smiles points.

German startup Wingcopter launched the world's first triple-drop autonomous delivery to power logistical highways in the sky. It comes with a variety of new features such as an AI-based visual detect and avoid solution and a smart precision landing capability. Such as solution is using Etisalat's 5G networks, which are designed to significantly reduce latency, to improve sending and receiving data. This is also in line with Etisalat's focus in autonomous delivery systems that will be linked to the Smiles app.

• Play all the music and games without using your mobile data
• Enjoy music on Deezer and JioSaavn & mobile gaming on Arena
• First-time subscribers to enjoy free 1st month of music & games

Etisalat and SWYP announced the launch of ‘Youth Music On & Game On’ add-ons, offering data as well as a free first month subscription to customers between 18 and 29 years of age when they subscribe to Music On Deezer, Music On JioSaavn or Game On Arena add-ons.

Etisalat Youth prepaid and postpaid customers as well as swypers can get a package of premium music (Deezer or JioSaavn) and gaming (Arena) with all the data they need for those apps for AED18 per month.

They can now listen to all music tracks to their hearts’ content, create playlists with their favorite songs, and go through unlimited skips with no ads. They will also get to enjoy more than 850 casual mobile games ad-free, without worrying about data. As an added bonus when they subscribe, customers get a free premium subscription during the first month.

Deezer is a French online music streaming service which allows users to access more than 73 million tracks and listen to music content from record labels as well as podcasts on various devices online or offline. An Indian online music streaming service, JioSaavn provides users access to 45 million songs that include the latest and trending Bollywood Hindi songs as well as Tamil, Telugu, and other regional Indian music. Arena is a new premium mobile gaming app by Etisalat, offering more than 850 high quality mobile games for casual gamers in partnership with Gameloft.

Etisalat customers can subscribe via the USSD code *101*18#, My Etisalat app and www.etisalat.ae. Swypers can use the swyp app or via USSD to subscribe to the add-ons.

The world and telecoms industry is undergoing a transformation and thus creating a new normal in which connectivity has become the lifeblood of economies and societies. This is offering telcos an opportunity to double-down on smart connectivity and maximise value creation by fully harnessing technology and adopting new business models, emphasised Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Corporate Strategy & Governance Officer, Etisalat Group.

Customers who subscribe to ‘Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1’ on the Smiles app will not The world and telecoms industry is undergoing a transformation and thus creating a new normal in which connectivity has become the lifeblood of economies and societies. This is offering telcos an opportunity to double-down on smart connectivity and maximise value creation by fully harnessing technology and adopting new business models, emphasised Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Corporate Strategy & Governance Officer, Etisalat Group.enjoy unlimited access to 1,000+ offers at more than 3,000 locations in the UAE, but will also automatically get a free Expo 2020 Dubai one-day ticket.

Al Shamsi in his presentation highlighted how it is integral for telcos in the new normal to gain new competencies especially with an acceleration towards a cloud-based service model, services being separated from infrastructure, digital players taking precedence and ecosystems scaling up to offer co-creation opportunities. Digital is the new norm however at the same time connectivity and digital services are also two sides of the same coin.

He also shared insights on how digital lifestyle and Industry 4.0 accelerates the requirement for value-added connectivity while growth in core services creates further demand and stimulates technology evolution. This can be achieved by creating smart and programmable connectivity for segments by harnessing the full power of technology transformation in addition to innovating the business model.

He cited examples that require low latency and bandwidth such as IoT, autonomous cars, remote surgery and gaming.

“The new normal has also created an opportunity to reinvent connectivity with 5G playing a key role and with telcos already having assets and competencies that help them meet the requirements of sophisticated customer segments. All these can be achieved with the support of the wider ecosystem to co-create and gain mutual benefits. It is most critical for telcos to focus on important pillars, mainly strategy, technology and the operating model supported by the best talent pool in the industry,” reiterated Al Shamsi.

Accenture, Etisalat Digital, and Oracle have signed a three-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) to offer SMBs and large enterprise clients in the Middle East a seamless digital transformation and journey to Oracle cloud solutions across IaaS/PaaS/SaaS. By offering a one-stop-shop for Oracle solutions, the new collaboration will allow Accenture, Etisalat Digital, and Oracle to create a joint value proposition for clients in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and the wider region.

Under the agreement, Etisalat Digital assumes the responsibility of Managed Services, Security, and Operations, with Oracle as the Cloud Provider and Accenture responsible for cloud-enabled transformation, implementation, and migration services. Enterprises eager to anchor their cloud journeys on Oracle cloud offerings will be provided best-in-class Oracle cloud hosting, as well as delivery and operations services.

The MoU was signed by Gerardo Canta, Senior Managing Director at Accenture in the Middle East, Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer of Etisalat, and Leopoldo Boado, Senior Vice President – Business Applications, ECEMEA region, Oracle, in the presence of senior representatives from these organizations.

The scope of the agreement will see Etisalat Digital and Accenture shape Oracle-powered cloud transformation journeys and deliver local deployment of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications implementation services in the UAE and KSA. The parties will leverage their global scale, industry expertise, and local knowledge to provide best-in-class digital transformation cloud solutions and unleash the full potential of what technologies can do for organizations and for clients in the Middle East. In addition, the collaboration will accelerate and enhance the power and integration of Oracle solutions for clients, helping them win faster as they transform their businesses.

The agreement is closely aligned with the national visions of Gulf governments, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, to ensure and drive a sustainable digital agenda while enabling cloud-based transformation that supports easy customer journeys in keeping with the unprecedented changes brought on by the pandemic. The integration of capabilities will help the region’s public and private entities through the strategy, design, and implementation of their IT and digital roadmaps, leveraging the unique mix of experience from global and local markets and strong credentials in technology-enabled business innovation.

• Subscribe to ‘Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1’ and get a free Expo 2020 Dubai 1-day ticket

Etisalat today announced that its rewards and engagement programme Smiles is offering residents and visitors a complimentary Expo 2020 Dubai one-day ticket to witness the greatest show on Earth.

Customers who subscribe to ‘Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1’ on the Smiles app will not only enjoy unlimited access to 1,000+ offers at more than 3,000 locations in the UAE, but will also automatically get a free Expo 2020 Dubai one-day ticket.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are delighted to offer our Smiles customers a complimentary one-day ticket to Expo 2020 Dubai, billed the 'Greatest Show on Earth'. The Smiles programme is designed to have a deeper engagement with our customers and enhance our customers’ happiness. With an ‘Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1’ subscription, our valued customers stand to benefit from a wide-range of deals, discounts and rewards that are seamlessly accessible through the Smiles app.”

Smiles, one of the largest lifestyle engagement programmes in the UAE, has more than 2.6 million registered members on the Smiles app and is open to all citizens, residents and visitors of the UAE. 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’ and other discount offers at over 3,000 outlets, on entertainment, shopping, dining, food delivery, travel, services and wellness experience.

Customers can subscribe to the ‘Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1’ to get the free Expo 2020 Dubai 1-day ticket by simply downloading the Smiles app and visiting the ‘Unlimited’ section.

Etisalat Group today announced the appointment of its new Group Chief Operations Officer (GCOO) as part of its significant transformation and planning for the next phase of growth and expansion of the company.

Keeping in line with this vision and strategy, Obaid Bokisha will transition into the role of GCOO from his previous position of Group Chief Transformation Officer and acting Group Chief Procurement Officer, as he will continue to lead transformation, procurement and administration. Additionally, Obaid will now oversee business continuity and crisis management.

Obaid has had an illustrious career of 23 years at Etisalat, having joined in 1998 and growing across several roles from network planning and optimisation to introducing new technologies and enhancing mobile networks performance. He brings a wealth of experience to the position, including his previous role as Chief Business Continuity and Corporate Quality Officer at Etisalat. He also currently serves as a member in multiple boards of directors, governance teams and steering committees.

Bokisha will be now instrumental in taking Etisalat Group to new heights and in helping the company achieve its organisational goals as it continues to expand and grow.

• Enjoy free Expo passes and other benefits with Visitor Line
• Double data for 3 months, free Expo passes & bill discounts with the latest Freedom plans
• Buy eLife online and get a multi-day Expo pass plus up to AED1,800 in free benefits

Etisalat today announced the launch of a wide range of special Expo 2020 Dubai offers and benefits, enabling visitors and residents to stay connected on the world's fastest mobile network as well as experience the best of TV entertainment and superfast broadband speeds.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: "We are delighted to introduce a host of offers and benefits such as loads of data and voice minutes, free double data and bill discounts, enhanced TV content and incredible home internet speeds, along with complimentary passes to Expo 2020 Dubai, the biggest cultural gathering in the world. At Etisalat, we are committed to provide top-notch benefits and are continuously innovating and evaluating ways to introduce best-in-value propositions to all our customer segments."

Visitor Line Premium and Visitor Line Premium+ plans, offer a one-day Expo pass and one multi-day Expo pass, respectively. A Visitor Line Premium (AED125) plan comes with 6GB data, 120 flexible minutes, five hours of free WiFi, AED 100 off Careem taxis, and instant access to Smiles 'Unlimited Buy 1 Get 1' vouchers. A Visitor Line Premium+ (AED200) plan provides 22.5GB data, 525 flexible minutes, 30 hours of free WiFI, and the same Careem and Smiles benefits.

Customers migrating to Etisalat's latest Freedom plans - New Freedom starting from Plan200 and Emirati Freedom - will get double data for three months and a bill discount of up to AED225. Customers signing up online will avail complimentary one-day, multi-day or season passes based on their selected plan.

New eLife customers who sign up online are also in for a treat. Etisalat is offering complimentary multi-day passes and other free benefits worth up to AED1,800. These benefits include free speed boost of 250Mbps, free premium TV packs for three months, and free installation, among others.

Etisalat is Expo 2020’s Official Telecommunications and Digital Services Premier Partner. It has built a dedicated modern network for Expo 2020 Dubai to meet its requirements and provide telecom services for the visitors throughout the six-month event. With a fiber network extended to every corner of the site, Expo 2020 Dubai visitors will experience seamless uninterrupted services with best-in-class download and upload speeds, high-quality content and minimal latency.

• Get a Galaxy Watch4 from AED42 a month via Smart Pay
• Acquire a pair of Galaxy Buds2 for only AED509
• Enjoy free delivery for purchases on the website or My Etisalat UAE app

Etisalat announced that the Galaxy Watch4 Series, Samsung's latest and most advanced smartwatch line-up, is officially available through all its branches and online channels in the UAE.

The Galaxy Watch4 and Galaxy Watch4 Classic's market introduction represents the beginning of a new chapter in smartwatch innovation, with both next-generation devices created in line with consumer demands for even more empowerment, luxury, and upgrades in terms of lifestyle, appearance, and user-centric capabilities. The Galaxy Watch4 Series comprises cutting-edge design, hardware, and health features, all of which come together to set new industry standards in smartwatch performance, appeal, and functionality.

Galaxy Watch4 (40mm) and Galaxy Watch4 Classic (42mm) can be purchased with Smart Pay plans on a 12, 18, and 24-month contract starting from only AED42 and AED59 a month, respectively. The standalone price of a Galaxy Watch4 is AED949, while Galaxy Watch4 Classic is priced at AED1,339. A pair of Galaxy Buds2 can be acquired for AED509. All prices are VAT inclusive.

These trendy wearables will be available at Etisalat retail stores across the UAE. Customers who purchase via www.etisalat.ae or My UAE Etisalat app can enjoy free delivery.

Khaled El Khouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is committed to continuously offer the latest devices, wearables, and accessories to its customers by partnering with leading global brands and mobile manufacturers. With the recent launch of the brand new Samsung Galaxy Z Series, these latest wearables will be apt for all Samsung fans in the country. We are also making it affordable for our customers, through our Smart Pay options, to avail the latest smart watches and wireless.”

"Following a successful pre-order period, the Galaxy Watch4 Series has finally made its way to the local market. While this is extremely pleasing for us as a brand, what's equally encouraging is the operators we work alongside supporting us like always," said Osman Albora, Senior Director – Mobile Division, Samsung Gulf Electronics. "Operators are integral to consumers acquiring new innovations and remaining fully satisfied. Their involvement in the Galaxy Watch4 Series launch project will help ensure every Galaxy lover secures their new smartwatches quickly and seamlessly, something we truly appreciate."

Samsung’s Most Advanced Suite of Health and Wellness Features
To ensure users of all ages stay fit and well, the Galaxy Watch4 Series is a perfect lifestyle companion thanks to its industry-leading health technology. Samsung’s groundbreaking BioActive Sensor, which boasts a smaller and more compact design that doesn’t detract from measurement accuracy, uses a single chip to precisely run three powerful health sensors — Optical Heart Rate, Electrical Heart and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. As a result, users can monitor their blood pressure, detect an irregular heartbeat, and measure their blood oxygen level.

Additionally, users will also benefit from smart tracking and health advice. For the first time, body composition can be calculated, meaning you can gain a clear picture of your body with key measurements, such as skeletal muscle, basal metabolic rate, and body fat percentage. A wide range of fitness routines are also available. Choose an extensive range of upgraded home workout on your Samsung Smart TV and see your heartrate and number of calories burned in real-time, right on screen.

Make life more convenient
Galaxy Watch4 Series users are set to become acquainted with a more seamless Galaxy experience with One UI Watch. Through this intuitive software overlay, you can seamlessly sync settings and downloaded apps between your smartphone and watch, receive important information with simple layout and attractive visuals, and adjust features and settings with a diverse range of easy-to-use controls – from Bixby and Gesture Controls to your watch’s bezel. What’s more, a multi-device experience across Galaxy devices is smoother than ever due to features including Auto Switch and Buds Controller.

Look your best – all day every day
Samsung has left no stone unturned during the Galaxy Watch4 Series’ development, an approach that will ensure every consumer enjoys a refined design. From the watch case to the strap, you can show off a sleek, eye-catching device that is perfect for all-day use and meets every unique preference. Flawless aesthetics are customisable to compliment individual tastes and lifestyles, such as straps and watch faces. What’s more, you have a choice of two distinct, fashion-forward designs. The Galaxy Watch4 boasts a modern, more minimalist option – designed for versatile use all day. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch4 Classic boasts a premium, timeless design with luxury materials and Samsung’s fan-favourite rotating bezel.

• New and existing businesses to enjoy up to twice Internet speed reaching 1Gbps at no extra cost
• Experience Etisalat’s robust fiber optic network

Etisalat today announced an Internet speed upgrade of up to 1Gbps, bringing tremendous value to existing and new business customers across the UAE.

Customers will also avail a host of benefits bundled with their connectivity such as free devices, exclusive digital and communication solutions, advanced telephony with flexible minutes and more.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat has always been at the forefront of empowering businesses with the most advanced digital solutions. This speed upgrade is a testimony to our commitment to the sector, giving us an opportunity to further cater to their requirements and helping them grow their business by enabling them in their digital journey. Faster broadband speeds significantly keep business operations running smoothly, increase productivity, and provide businesses with quick access to resources, data and cloud-based applications.”

Etisalat’s robust network has greatly contributed to help businesses achieve higher productivity and an efficient workforce. The new Internet speeds provide customers with a premium experience which is not limited to high-speed internet connectivity. Etisalat’s value proposition for businesses include free devices, a groundbreaking network protection, and a host of collaboration and digital solutions.

For more info, please visit etisalat.ae/internetbundles.

Etisalat is offering the best-ever lineup of iPhone and iPad, including the innovative and elegant iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 mini, the highly capable and affordable iPad (9th generation) and iPad mini with a new all-screen design, in the UAE beginning 24th September.

The devices are currently available at Etisalat retail stores across the UAE. Purchases of new iPhone 13 models can also be made via the website etisalat.ae/iphone13pro or My UAE Etisalat app.

Etisalat customers may opt to purchase an iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max with flexible Smart Pay plans on a 12, 18, or 24-month contract starting from AED190 and AED215, respectively. An iPhone 13 Mini and iPhone 13 can be acquired starting from only AED135 and AED155, respectively. All prices are VAT inclusive.

Redesigned inside and out, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max introduce the most advanced pro camera system ever on iPhone, Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, improved battery life, the Apple-designed A15 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU, and an advanced 5G experience. iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini feature the most advanced dual camera system ever in iPhone and the powerhouse A15 Bionic chip in a sleek and durable design. iPad mini features an all-screen design, the A15 Bionic chip, 5G, Centre Stage, and more. iPad features the Apple-designed A13 Bionic, Center Stage, True Tone, and now starts with double the storage.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is thrilled the much awaited iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 mini are now available for customers in the UAE. Apple’s newest flagship 5G smartphones are a game changer in the industry and available for all Etisalat customers in the UAE.”

With ultra-high speed and low latency services to the user, 5G enables Etisalat subscribers to enjoy uninterrupted 4K video streaming, best gaming experience, and the highly connected technologies.

Featuring an advanced 5G experience with more 5G bands, the iPhone 13 lineup works in more places on 5G for greater coverage and performance.1 Available in four stunning finishes — graphite, gold, silver, and the all-new sierra blue — iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, introduce an all-new Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion featuring an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, making the touch experience even faster and more responsive. They also introduce the best battery life ever on iPhone with iPhone 13 Pro Max, lasting up to two and a half hours longer in a day than iPhone 12 Pro Max, a new storage capacity of 1TB, and are protected by the Ceramic Shield front cover, tougher than any smartphone glass. With new Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto cameras, the pro camera system gets its biggest advancement ever capturing stunning photos and video, powered by the Apple-designed A15 Bionic. These technologies enable impressive new photo capabilities like macro photography on the new Ultra Wide camera and up to 2.2x improved low-light performance on the new Wide camera, and new computational photography features like Photographic Styles to personalise the look of images in the Camera app, and Night mode on all cameras. Video takes a huge leap forward offering Cinematic mode for beautiful depth-of-field transitions, macro video, Time-lapse and Slo-mo, and even better low-light performance. Both models also offer end-to-end pro workflows in Dolby Vision, and for the first time, ProRes, only available on iPhone.

The next generation iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini feature a beautiful design with sleek flat edges in five gorgeous new colours — pink, blue, midnight, starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED.2 Both models feature major innovations including the most advanced dual-camera system ever on iPhone — with a new Wide camera with bigger pixels and sensor-shift optical image stabilization offering improvements in low light photos and videos, a new way to personalise the camera with Photographic Styles, and Cinematic mode, which brings a new dimension to video storytelling.

Equipped with the Apple-designed A15 Bionic, iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini also boast super-fast performance and power efficiency, longer battery life, a brighter Super Retina XDR display that brings content to life, incredible durability with the Ceramic Shield front cover, double the entry-level storage at 128GB, an industry-leading IP68 rating for water resistance, and an advanced 5G experience.

The new iPad mini delivers an amazing experience in a gorgeous new array of colours — pink, starlight, purple, and space gray — with a larger 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. Featuring the Apple-designed A15 Bionic chip, iPad mini delivers up to 80 percent faster performance than the previous generation, making it the most capable iPad mini ever. With 5G now available on iPad mini, customers can do even more with faster wireless connectivity on the go. Users can now stay connected and be even more productive wherever they are. A new USB-C port allows faster connectivity, and new advanced cameras, Center Stage, and support for Apple Pencil (2nd generation) enable new ways for users to capture photos and videos, communicate with loved ones, and jot down their ideas when creativity strikes. iPad comes equipped with the powerful Apple-designed A13 Bionic chip, delivering a 20 percent performance boost over the previous generation, all while retaining its all-day battery life.3 and incredible value. For the first time, True Tone comes to the beautiful 10.2-inch Retina display on iPad, which adjusts screen content to the color temperature of a room. iPad also features a new 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, support for Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Smart Keyboard, the intuitive iPadOS 15, and starts with 64GB of storage — twice the storage from the previous generation.

Companies creating an innovative and productive workforce have to consider new approaches to talent management. Etisalat is paving the way by building an inclusive workforce with the talent and ability to evolve, learn and contribute to the digital transformation vital to the company’s strategy and vision. Moreover, it is about making their work purposeful and encouraging a culture that fits their values and continuously inspires them, highlighted senior Etisalat executives at the Board Summit.

The summit held under the patronage of Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa al Nahyan and hosted by Aurora50 set the stage for chairpersons, boards, aspiring directors, and their corporates to come together and discuss the future of boards.⁠⁠ This unique hybrid three-day event was dedicated to getting the attention of companies supporting and looking for women to join their board, enabling ecosystems to break down barriers and driving change in succession planning and leadership in the boardroom.

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, Dena Almansoori, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, and Maha Muraish, Senior Vice President, Transformation-B2B from Etisalat, participated.

During the CEO panel discussion focusing on ‘The future of work- building inclusive workplaces’, Dowidar highlighted the importance of diversity as a critical driver of innovation and a crucial component for Etisalat to attain success on a global scale. He also shared insights on the company’s transformation across 16 countries by embarking on an exciting new chapter, with everyone internally working towards a common goal to drive a digital future and company ethos ‘Together Matters’. A diverse workforce with inclusion at its core means more access to different points of view, skillsets, creative visions, approaches, and experience, which is more likely to result in a technology company producing more innovative products and services for consumers and businesses.

Meanwhile, Almansoori emphasised the importance of striking a balance between diversity and inclusion during her presentation ‘Inclusion: The secret to an organisation’s success’, highlighting the importance of inclusion to business success and employee engagement. In addition, she stressed the relevance of leveraging data analytics during the hiring process to ensure a diverse candidate pool with the right experience and skillsets for the future.

An inclusive culture is not only the right thing to do but also makes business sense, she shared while highlighting some interesting research on the direct relationship between business success and inclusion. An organisation with an inclusive culture is twice as likely to exceed financial targets, three times as likely to be high performing, six times more agile and innovative, and finally eight times more likely to achieve better business outcomes.

Etisalat has also launched various initiatives for customers from all walks of life to access services easily, highlighted Almansoori. These included training employees with basic Emirati sign language to elevate the customer experience and to help senior citizens and residents at home to conduct transactions on their smart devices. Another noteworthy cause was the launch of a first of its kind web extension to simplify the World Wide Web and make it autistic-friendly to support people with autism. These are a few examples of inclusivity to the customers that Etisalat serves to enable and empower them.

The importance of alignment in managing evolving investor and stakeholder expectations in building inclusive workforces was one of the key takeaways during Muraish’s panel discussion, which also focused on CHROs creating meaningful change, succession planning and the board’s role in supporting the corporate strategy and company executives.

• Recognised as ‘Best Regional Data Centre Operator’ at the CC Global Awards 2021

Etisalat’s SmartHub community of customers is witnessing a massive growth, mainly due to its diverse and complete ecosystem offering an ideal environment for interconnecting and its proximity to regional end users, said Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer, Etisalat.

“As one of the biggest neutral carrier hotels, Etisalat’s SmartHub data centres will be an ICT bridge between continents always supporting critical business activities of global customers. We at Etisalat are committed to making ‘SmartHub’ a preferred location for carriers, cloud service providers, Internet exchanges and companies looking for a carrier grade data centres,” Amiri said.

SmartHub is a trusted digital enabler for global customers from various industry verticals including, telcos, OTTs, cloud players, content delivery networks, financial services, and gaming platforms. It also has direct access to multiple independent subsea cable system, interconnecting Europe, US, Asia, Middle East and Africa, which makes it capable of serving more than two billion people within 30 milliseconds latency to guarantee a superior customer experience.

SmartHub is the largest hub of submarine cable landing station in the region, allowing access to a list of wholesale services including data, voice, mobile, and satellite teleport services as well as Internet and IPX Exchange and offers flexible services and pricing models.

Recently, Etisalat was recognised as ‘Best Regional Data Centre Operator’ at the fifth annual Carrier Community (CC) Global Awards ceremony in Berlin.

The ‘Best Regional Data Centre Operator’ award recognises an entity with a unique service or an initiative that demonstrates the most effective and new service or solution and can illustrate the business benefits derived from it.

Commenting on the award, Amiri said: “Through our commitment to excellence and innovation, Etisalat’s SmartHub became one of the fastest-growing wholesale data hubs in the regions it serves including the Middle East, Africa and Europe. SmartHub is a key element of the digital infrastructure in the region, and will continue to offer its customers a world-class service that meets their evolving requirements.”

Etisalat SmartHub is a multiservice carrier-grade wholesale data centre in Fujairah, The SmartHub ecosystem currently has three facilities, namely SmartHub Fujairah 1, SmartHub Fujairah 2, and SmartHub Dubai.

Etisalat is currently building a fourth SmartHub facility in the UAE, which is expected to enter service in the first quarter of 2022. The new facility is set to increase Etisalat’s capabilities and global capacity to meet its international clients’ growing needs for infrastructure across Asia, Africa, Europe, Middle East and the Americas.

Etisalat will offer the best-ever lineup of iPhone and iPad, including the innovative and elegant iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 mini, the highly capable and affordable iPad (9th generation) and iPad mini, with a new all-screen design.

Redesigned inside and out, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max introduce the most advanced pro camera system ever on iPhone, Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, improved battery life, the Apple-designed A15 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU, and an advanced 5G experience.

iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini feature the most advanced dual camera system ever in iPhone and powerhouse A15 Bionic chip in a sleek and durable design. iPad mini features an all-screen design, the A15 Bionic chip, 5G, Center Stage, and more. iPad features the Apple-designed A13 Bionic, Center Stage, True Tone, and now starts with double the storage.

Customers will be able to pre-order the iPhone 13 lineup on 17th September, with availability on 24th September. Customers can also order iPad mini and iPad beginning on 17th September, with availability on 24th September.

For complete pricing and availability details, please visit etisalat.ae/iphone13pro.

The mobile industry is becoming a great enabler across economies, by continuing to build partnerships across industries to enable meaningful economic growth, expand employment opportunities, and empowering societies at large, emphasised Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group, at his opening keynote on the first day of the GSMA Mobile 360–Eurasia in Moscow.

Dowidar participated in the fourth edition of GSMA Mobile 360–Eurasia with his keynote, followed by a panel discussion on ‘Empowering a Data-Driven Society’ with C-level executives from telcos, infrastructure companies and technology providers.

Main discussion points focused on how crisis accelerates innovations presents a choice, and is the key to unlocking post crisis growth with technologies such as AI, 5G, Big Data, and IoT shaping the future and transforming lives rapidly, reimagining a more connected society.

“The mobile industry has an unrivalled global reach and remains committed to actively working with governments, international institutions across global and regional platforms. Progressive governments play an important role in a data-driven economy, reaping benefits with a robust infrastructure and a much more evolved regulatory environment supporting this advancement.

“The UAE is a great example; the leadership’s efforts became a beacon for Etisalat and others to work tirelessly to support the country to become one of the top five countries around the world in terms of its technology infrastructure, ICT adoption, and investment in telecom services. This has in turn inspired Etisalat to continue with its investments in building the world’s fastest network and cutting-edge technologies of the future.”

The GSMA Mobile 360 – Eurasia conference featured case studies and discussions aimed at top-level regional and international decision makers focusing on how to harness new technologies to build and maintain a competitive business advantage, to drive new social and business opportunities, to increase revenue while also ensuring security.

The two-day event also saw the participation of ministers, telecom regulators, data protection authorities, identity authorities, and senior representatives from international organisations to discuss the growth of the global digital economy.

Discussions will focus on technological breakthroughs that bring solutions with the potential to enrich our everyday lives, and free people from mundane tasks, solving complex problems and generating value and prosperity.

Etisalat announced today that the brand new Samsung Galaxy Z 5G Series is now available for purchase across all its branches in the UAE. Comprising two next-generation premium devices – Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G – the latest generation of the Galaxy Z Series represents the beginning of a brand new chapter in mobile innovation. With world-class design, expert engineering, empowering features, and cutting-edge technology, both foldable smartphones are the most durable of their kind to date and promise to optimise consumer experiences – serving as gateways to enjoy new and unique ways to work, watch, and play. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G (256GB) is available for AED6,799 through Etisalat stores and online channels, while the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G (128GB) can be acquired for AED3,799.

The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G and Galaxy Z Fold3 5G can be purchased with flexible Smart Pay plans on a 12, 18, 24 and 36-month contract starting from only AED112 and AED201, respectively. All prices are VAT inclusive.

Etisalat customers purchasing the devices 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 three months, 3GB for two months, or 10GB for one month.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is delighted that the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G will now be available for purchase for our customers in the UAE. We have witnessed a huge demand on both flagship devices during the pre-order phase, enabling our customers to enjoy the best-in-class performance and our 5G network that boasts of ultra-high speeds and low latency services. With Etisalat's Smart Pay options - which now include a special 36-month plan further reducing the prices - we are truly making it affordable for all customer segments to get their hands on these two highly desired smartphones.”

With ultra-high speed and low latency services to the user, 5G enables Etisalat subscribers to enjoy uninterrupted 4K video streaming, best gaming experience, and the highly connected technologies.

Osman Albora, Senior Director – Mobile Division, Samsung Gulf Electronics, said: “We are delighted to be collaborating once again with operators for the Galaxy Z Series’ release. The recent pre-order phase proved that the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G will be in high demand across the country. And with this in mind, we are grateful that audiences can also make purchases through the operator channels that suit them.”

Galaxy Z Series common features
Samsung continues its foldable device manufacturing leadership with refined operations and time-tested processes to create devices that remain reliable after years of use. The revolutionary Hideaway Hinge enables the devices to stay in place at any angle for innovative user experiences with Flex mode, while enhanced sweeper technology ensures dust and other particles stay out of the Hideaway Hinge while maintaining a slimmer design. The Galaxy Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G also are equipped with the world’s first IPX8 water-resistance in the foldable category and the strongest aluminum on a smartphone to date.

Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
Built for those who need the ultimate device to power their productivity and maximise every moment, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G combines power, efficiency and immersive viewing so you can check off your to-do list faster and have more time for next-level gaming, content viewing and video calling. With space for up to three apps at once, it is the ultimate productivity tool for modern multi-taskers. The new Taskbar that enables easy app switching without returning to the home screen and App Split View allows you to view more information without constant back and forth between apps.

Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
For those who need a device that’s as stylish as they are, the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G empowers you to express yourself with bold color options, a sleek, compact design, and trendy new accessories. Unfold and snap a stunning selfie with Galaxy Z Flip3’s studio-quality camera features with Flex mode, then add to your social feed, which scrolls smoother than ever with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Thanks to the super clear glass on the rear camera, you can also take photos continuously with high light transmittance and less flare in every single shot, with a host of other features at your disposal for an entirely new foldable experience.

For more details, please visit etisalat.ae.

• App usage will not consume customers’ data allowance

Etisalat today announced that all its postpaid and prepaid customers would be able to access their Alhosn app in public places without activating or purchasing a data plan.

AlHosn app is now whitelisted so that any data consumed while using the app will not come off a mobile subscribers’ allowance.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to offer zero rated access to Alhosn app. This is a testament to Etisalat’s commitment to enhance customer experience while supporting the government’s efforts in using the latest mobile technologies to help contain the COVID-19 virus and maintain the health and safety of all citizens, residents and visitors in the country.”

Reiterating a decision announced in June, the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee confirmed the mandatory use of the green pass on the Alhosn app for all tourists and residents in Abu Dhabi to enter most public places, which started on August 20.

The Alhosn app is being used by authorities to streamline movement of people across the UAE, including crossing the Abu Dhabi border. The status of one’s “green pass”, which turns green when one receives a negative PCR test, is displayed on the app. The app provides a complete history of one’s PCR tests as well as their current validity and one’s vaccination status.

Etisalat and Orange have come together to establish an IPX peering point at Etisalat’s SmartHub PoP in UAE, improving its international wholesale arm’s reach across partners in the region and meeting the increasing demand for 4G and 5G connectivity. Etisalat SmartHub/IPX peering platform is neutral for mobile carriers to enhance customer experience for roaming customers, and will help address the IoT roaming business where lower latency is essential.

As part of the Etisalat SmartHub, Orange’s international wholesale arm will have presence in the Middle East to support its global infrastructure, interconnections, capacity and expand its reach into the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. The IPX peering agreement will enable the company to further support the global telecom infrastructure requirement of its existing customers as well as tap new markets with its specialised telecom services and solutions.

Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer, Etisalat, said: “We are delighted to have Orange as an IPX peering partner at Etisalat’s SmartHub. Our SmartHub stands out as an innovative regional exchange, capacity, and mobility platform to drive future growth. Over the years, the hub has successfully proved its capability in providing consistency and best-in-class connectivity in the region.

“We, at Etisalat, are committed to deliver the highest quality and innovative international services. The continuous flow of partnerships with Orange will signify Etisalat’s position as a central hub of regional IPX connectivity in the telecom market. Orange’s decision to establish peering with Etisalat will enable them to cater to global 4G and 5G connectivity requirements of their end customer and also extend their core infrastructure in the Middle East.”

SmartHub IPX Exchange connects mobile carriers seamlessly and is the fourth interconnection point for mobile carriers globally just after Amsterdam, Ashburn and Singapore bridging the gap between Singapore-Amsterdam adding quality and diversity to mobile carriers and operators.

In line with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority’s (TDRA) announcement on 2G network gradually being switched off by the end of 2022, Etisalat assures all customers that it will continue to support this transition and modernisation of the network.

The 2G sunset is keeping with Etisalat’s strategy to support the UAE vision 2030, bringing digital transformation in the country as well as enhancing UAE’s ICT ranking in the global market.

Etisalat is ensuring a smooth transition by educating all its customers including individuals, enterprise, and small and medium businesses and providing alternate devices which support the switch off from 2G to advanced 4G/5G networks.

Etisalat is currently coordinating with all business sectors that are still using the 2G network for machine to machine (M2M) communications such as industrial, vehicle-tracking devices, gateways and Point Of Sale devices (POS). Offers are made to upgrade and replace those devices to support 4G network and LTE CATM1 IoT Network that will help achieve operational efficiency with better connectivity and lower network latency.

The 2G network switchoff is aimed at keeping pace with the rapid and continuous developments of the telecommunications sector, particularly in the digital front. The frequencies and bands utilised by the 2G network will be allocated to more advanced networks.

The 5G network has tremendous capabilities to support the acceleration of digital transformation that leads to new prospects and opportunities in many sectors. As a major enabler of the next generation of broadband service and the Internet of Things, investing in 5G is necessary as it delivers faster speeds and ultra-low latency, providing access to all kinds of applications and services and will drive innovation, efficiency and productivity to a wide range of business and industrial sectors of the UAE.

5G network is the backbone of many emerging technologies such as Internet of Things, Cloud Computing, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Autonomous Technologies, Augmented and Virtual Reality, among others. With the shutdown of older generations of networks, individuals and societies will witness the benefits of these technologies as an essential part of the digital future.

Etisalat reiterated that the due date for Etisalat bill payments is 15th of every month for bills generated on the 1st of the month for previous month’s usage.

This allows adequate time for customers to settle their bills on or before the due date to avoid recurring reminders and a AED26.25 reconnection fee inclusive of VAT.

Etisalat facilitates easy payment options through its website, My Etisalat UAE app, self-service on 101 or 125 Etisalat payment machines across the UAE, via bank mobile application, among others.

Customers are notified to pay their bills on the due date and before any service disconnection. An auto pay service can be set up where a fixed amount or the full amount of the bill can be deducted monthly from a customer’s credit card on the due date.

• Board approval of interim dividend for H1 2021 of 40 fils per share

Etisalat Group today announced its consolidated financial results for H1 ending 30th June 2021.

H1 2021 Financial Highlights and Key Developments

• Etisalat Group subscriber base reached 156.1 million Subscribers.
• Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 26.4 billion representing YoY increase of 3.2 percent while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 4.7 billion representing a year over year increase of 3.9% and resulting in a net profit margin of 18%.
• Consolidated EBITDA reached AED 13.4 billion resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%.
• Board approval of interim dividend for H1 2021 of 40 fils per share.
• Credit Ratings agencies S&P Global and Moodys affirmed Etisalat Group’s high credit rating at AA-/Aa3 with stable outlook.
• Etisalat successfully completed a bonds issuance worth one billion Euros to refinance the maturing Euro bond tranche.
• Etisalat crowned strongest brand in the MEA region across all categories.
• Etisalat recognised as world’s fastest mobile network by Ookla.
• Etisalat forays into 6G-the next generation of the mobile network by conducting research and developing international standards.
• Etisalat expands its SmartHub footprint with a third location opening in Kalba complete with a state-of-art Tier 3 data centre facility.
• Etisalat launched the region’s first online Mobile Service Centre, offering real-time visibility and control over business customers’ mobile usage.
• Etisalat collaborated with Smart Dubai to provide cyber security services to Dubai government entities.
• Etisalat joins programme led by Khalifa Fund for Small & Medium Enterprise Development.
• Etisalat Misr completed the first VoLTE call using Virtual IMS technology.
• Etisalat Misr signed an agreement with Canal Sugar Company, the first of its kind in the agricultural sector to digitally transform their financial transactions.
• PTCL starts transformation of its IP Edge & Optical Transport Network.
• UAE Trade Connect (UTC)’s digital trade platform went live with seven banks.
• E-Vision launched the Television Audience Measurement (TAM) to identify viewership trends from eLife TV.
• Digital Financial Services partnered with Lulu Group International and Al Futtaim to enable secure and contactless payments.
• Etisalat partnered with Aruba to offer managed Wi-Fi and networking solutions.
• Etisalat collaborated with Cisco to simplify Emirates Internet Exchange (EMIX) operations by building the region’s first open and autonomous and secured network.
• Etisalat launched the Smiles’ food order and delivery service in the UAE.
• Smiles partnered with Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) to support the global ‘100 Million Meals’ humanitarian campaign.
• As part of its commitment to support and empower People of Determination Etisalat partnered with Ministry of Community Development to launch a web extension to make accessing the web autistic friendly.

H.E. Jassem Mohamed Alzaabi, Chairman of Etisalat Group

“Etisalat continued to demonstrate strong performance showcasing growth across its operations for the first half of the year, thanks to our continuous efforts and focus on our vision of driving the digital future with a strong commitment towards the societies we serve and adding value to our shareholders.

We are confident that Etisalat Group will maintain its leadership position in the telecom industry while remaining focused on our core business and exploring new growth opportunities ensuring that we are well geared for the future with all our digital capabilities and solutions.

I would like to thank UAE’s wise leadership for their continuous support to the telecom sector and the Etisalat Group’s management team in making the digital vision a reality by staying focused on the company’s long-term strategy to drive stakeholder value. Thanks to both our shareholders and loyal customers for inspiring us to set new global benchmarks and reach new business heights.”

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group

“Etisalat Group’s strong results in the first half of 2021 is an outcome of our sincere efforts to drive growth and generate efficiencies, with an unwavering commitment to key strategic priorities to enable a digital future and drive digital innovation across our operations. Despite the challenges in our key markets, our businesses delivered growth in revenue, net profit and operating free cashflow.

We are proud that Etisalat Group was a key contributor to positioning the UAE as the fastest mobile network in the world and among the top fixed broadband networks globally, meeting the ICT aspirations of the country’s leadership. With our success in deploying 5G as well as taking the global lead in fibre penetration, we ensured that our networks are future-ready for the next generation of mobile networks and technologies. As we look ahead with confidence, we will focus on expanding our capabilities, maintaining industry leadership to achieve our long-term goals of enriching customer lives and empowering governments, businesses and societies across our footprint.

Etisalat remains grateful to the wise leadership of the UAE, thankful to our customers and shareholders for their constant encouragement, and to our employees who are the cornerstone of our success. We will remain focused on investments in futuristic solutions and next-generation technologies, enhancing the overall customer experience while delivering long-term value for all our shareholders.”

Subscribers

In the UAE the subscriber base reached 12.1 million subscribers in H1 of 2020, while the aggregate subscriber base reached 156.1 million, representing a year over year increase of 7%.

Revenue & Net Profit

Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 26.4 billion representing YoY increase of 3.2 percent while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 4.7 billion representing a year over year increase of 3.9% and resulting in a net profit margin of 18%.

EBITDA:

Consolidated EBITDA reached AED 13.4 billion resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%.

Etisalat Digital today announced it has won the 2021 Microsoft Country Partner of the Year award for the UAE. It was honoured among a global field of top Microsoft partners for demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology.

Etisalat Digital was recognised for providing outstanding Microsoft solutions and services in the UAE. It has acquired several new customers across modern workplace/security and Azure in small, medium, corporate, and enterprise segments, including notable customers in government, healthcare and financial services. The organisation has also been instrumental in accelerating the customer journey on remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic by offering Teams Direct Routing as a service, to help save costs and enable business continuity for multinationals.

The Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards recognise Microsoft partners that have developed and delivered outstanding Microsoft-based solutions during the past year. Awards were classified in various categories, with honourees chosen from a set of more than 4,400 submitted nominations from more than 100 countries worldwide.

• Participates in National Bank of Fujairah webinar

Etisalat’s key priority during and post COVID-19 was to support the small and medium businesses (SMBs) in their digital transformation journey by becoming a one-stop solution provider that enabled them to deal with a single player and kept them agile in their business, said Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat.

He shared these insights during a webinar on ‘Post COVID business recovery and growth in the virtual world’ organised by National Bank of Fujairah. His session focused on dealing with business threats during 2021 and beyond, digitalisation efforts that has transformed business planning and projection, and lessons learned during the pandemic.

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

“Today we are able to play a greater role in enabling digital capabilities in SMBs with the backbone of a robust and one of the most advanced, fastest and widest network in the region. SMBs today make up about 98 percent of businesses in the UAE, representing over 80 percent of the country’s GDP, therefore represent an important segment in Etisalat business.

“All our initiatives during the pandemic and in the new normal focused on delivering innovative solutions by introducing a comprehensive Business Edge platform that support their day to day business requirements across six pillars, namely smart connectivity, unified communications, office productivity, security and analytics, business devices, and digital marketing,” highlighted Mahmoud.

With the gradual opening of businesses, safety measures, thermal scanners and social distancing procedures were in place. Etisalat launched a temperature screening solution with multiple product types and a wide range of applications that made temperature measurement and screening effortless during these challenging times.

Etisalat’s Video Surveillance as a Service (VSAAS) offered enhanced security and enables them to benefit from the power of video and video analytics. Customers could choose from four Etisalat video surveillance packages, and had the one-time installation waived off.

To support the unprecedented demand for connectivity and help businesses stay connected, Etisalat launched a wide range of device bundles along with access to Etisalat's unified communication and collaboration platform CloudTalk Meeting.

With a challenging retail environment, Etisalat provided an E-Store 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 and website pages.

As some organisations began to reopen and others remained fully remote, small and medium sized businesses faced a unique set of challenges to keep employees safe, connect with customers, and move work forward.

Etisalat provided SMB customers access to a Microsoft 365 Business Basic package that allowed up to 300 users and included Online Office apps, a 50GB mailbox, a 1TB OneDrive storage, and Microsoft Teams, helping businesses accomplish more and faster with simple file-sharing, real-time co-authoring, and online meetings – all accessible anywhere.

Etisalat, from Emirates Telecommunication Group Company, and du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), have announced the finalisation of their master developer agreements (MDA) with Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE).

As part of the new partnership, both operators will cover MBRHE’s mega housing projects, providing essential telecommunications infrastructure through the Taawun infrastructure deployment initiative.

The agreement helps achieve the strategic objectives of MBRHE to create high-end residential communities offering comprehensive services. It also aims at increasing the levels of satisfaction of UAE citizens in Dubai, allowing them to choose the retail telecom operator of their choice without experiencing any disruption while moving into their new home. The arrangement will further support to the government’s long-term vision in developing smart infrastructure and establishing a robust telecom sector for master developers.

Under the MDA, du and Etisalat will install, maintain, and oversee state-of-the-art fixed telecom services and solutions across mega housing projects in Oud Al Muteena, Hatta, Al Warqa 4, and Muhaisnah.

Commenting on the partnership with Etisalat, Sami Abdullah Gargash, CEO, Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE), said: “We are excited about this partnership with Etisalat and Du, which reflects our commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives and providing advanced services to our communities. We value the efforts of both operators and all the partners who contributed to this initiative to develop the telecommunication infrastructure enhancing them across our residential communities.”

Saeed Alzarouni, Senior Vice President, Mobile Network, Etisalat, said: “Taawun is an initiative we are deeply invested in at Etisalat, as it aligns closely with our commitment to support the government’s vision and the development of smart technologies and enable digital transformation across UAE. We are honoured to collaborate with Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment to deliver superior digital and communications infrastructure to our customers in line with our overall strategy and vision of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies’. This agreement reaffirms our continued efforts to enter into partnerships, enhance our offerings across the UAE, and cater to the needs of generations to come.”

Saleem AlBlooshi, Chief Technology Officer, du, said: “Making valuable contributions to community transformations is an integral part of du operations. With smart infrastructure development becoming an increasing priority at the national level, we are proud to lend our support and expertise to ensure master developers reap the rewards of a telecom sector that meets every demand through world-class infrastructure and resources. At du, we have always worked proactively in line with the UAE’s sustainability agenda. Today’s announcement represents the next phase of this enduring principle, and we are proud of our partnership with MBRHE. Now more than ever, residential communities require comprehensive telco services, with seamless capabilities and without disruption. This is what we will deliver through this collaboration.”

• Etisalat Group, STC, Zain, Mobily and du come together to commit on implementation of Open RAN solutions
• Initiative to drive innovation, cost efficiencies and customer mobile experience

Etisalat Group, Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Zain Group, Mobily, and du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), are joining forces to push forward the implementation of Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) solutions in their existing telecom networks, share their industry knowledge and experience setting a clear path to drive innovation for the ICT sector across the Middle East.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the five operators confirms commitment to deploy Open RAN across their footprint, providing an opportunity to traditional RAN vendors to adopt open interfaces, software and hardware to build more agile and flexible mobile networks in the 5G and 4G era, support new entrants with innovative solutions and achieve cost efficiencies in RAN deployments.

This partnership will open immense opportunities for operators and the telecom ecosystem with the availability of interoperable, competitive and commercial grade Open RAN products, building a framework to exchange best practices and technical outcomes. For customers, they will gain advantage with service catering to the local market requirements with faster time to market while using the most advanced mobile access networks. With operators focusing on introducing software capabilities in the Open RAN environment it will bring technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the forefront.

Hatem Bamatraf, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat Group, said: “This is an extraordinary opportunity for the Middle East operators to come together to promote the development of an open technology that will help to enhance the flexibility and efficiency of our networks. I am excited about this partnership that will foster a diverse and secure 4G/5G ecosystem based on Open RAN solutions. This is also a testimony to Etisalat’s commitment and leadership in innovation in the ICT sector and to development and adoption of Open RAN ensuring the best network experience for our customers.”

Haitham Alfaraj, Senior Vice President of Technology and Operations in stc Group, said: “stc is committed to the introduction of latest technologies and innovative 5G/4G mobile networks solutions. Today’s announcement signals the entry into a new era of operators’ collaboration in Middle East to accelerate the development of Open Network technologies, which helps in diversifying our strategic technology growth.”

He added: “Our commitment has always been to deliver a best-in-class mobile network to our deserving customers. This is an exciting milestone in stc’s digital transformation journey; stc will continue to endeavor to always lead the market towards digital transformation, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

Nawaf Al Gharabally, Zain Group's Chief Technology Officer, commented: “This joint and innovative initiative by like-minded and visionary regional mobile operators is truly inspirational as it brings multiple benefits to all our stakeholders and further enhances the Middle East telecom sector’s position on the ICT world map.”

Eng. Alaa Malki, Chief Technology Officer at Mobily, said: “Mobily is keen to strengthen this partnership, which copes with the latest innovations in ICT sector, as it improves the services provided to customers and build an advanced open access network.

Almalki added: “The implementation of Open RAN solutions supports the flexibility and provides more innovation in managing the network for more efficient operations. Mobily is willing to exert all efforts for the success of this partnership and forge several partnerships that push forward the development and innovation in the ICT sector.”

Saleem AlBlooshi, Chief Technology Officer, du, said: “Driving innovation and Open RAN deployment is the shared responsibility of every telco operator. At du, we are committed to working with our regional counterparts, which will enable us to create further value by increasing infrastructure flexibility and efficiency while accelerating technology adaption and network expansion across the UAE.”

With Open RAN the industry is working towards standards and technical specifications that define open interfaces within the radio system, including hardware and software, so that networks can be deployed and operated based on mix-and-match components from different suppliers. Operators will be able to draw on the reinvigorated supplier innovation to drive cost efficiencies and more flexibly deliver customised services in response to evolving customer demands.

The introduction of Open RAN, virtualisation, and automation will enable a fundamental change in the way operators manage networks and deliver services. Operators will be able to add or shift capacity more quickly for end users, automatically resolve network incidents or provide enterprise level services on-demand for industry.

• Move represents a step towards supporting the transition to sustainable energy
• Electric vehicles feature ‘Together for a greener tomorrow’ message

Etisalat today announced that it has introduced Tesla cars to its fleet of vehicles as part of a wider initiative to foster a safe, clean and sustainable environment.

Etisalat’s customers will be pleasantly surprised to find their devices and accessories delivered at their doorstep via a Tesla Model 3 car with a message ‘Together for a greener tomorrow’. The branded electric vehicles (EVs) will be largely used for customers’ online deliveries.

Obaid Bokisha, Chief Transformation Officer, Etisalat, said: “At Etisalat, we strive to operate responsibly and transparently by living our inspiration ‘Together Towards a Sustainable Future’. The introduction of Tesla Model 3 to our fleet of vehicles represents an important step towards supporting the transition to sustainable energy.

“Etisalat is setting the pace for innovation and digital transformation, keeping in line with its strategy to ‘drive the digital future to empower societies’. We are committed to not only achieving our vision of digitalising and empowering communities, but also ensuring sustainability in all our endeavours.”

So far, the Tesla cars are the only EVs on Etisalat’s fleet. The Tesla Model 3 is the first vehicle built on Tesla’s third-generation platform. It is an electric fastback mid-size four-door sedan, which comes with the option of dual motor all-wheel drive, 20” Überturbine wheels, and performance brakes and lowered suspension for total control.

• Up to 65 percent discount on devices and accessories with SmartPay options

As a strategic partner of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), Etisalat is offering discounts of up to 65 percent on a wide range of devices and accessories for customers to treat themselves or gift their loved ones this summer season.

DSS is a great time to enjoy Etisalat’s deals and pick up gifts for loved ones. Customers can enjoy amazing discounts on the latest smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, and accessories from popular brands such as Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, Sony and Bose with Smartpay options of up to 24 months for devices priced above AED500 and free delivery for online orders.

Purchases of these devices could be made via the website www.etisalat.ae, My Etisalat app, and Etisalat retail stores across the UAE from 1st July to 4th September 2021.

The 24th edition of DSS, organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, will take place across 10 weeks this year from 1st July 1 until 4th September. The festival will feature an action-packed extravaganza of shopping, hotel, dining and entertainment options at discounted summer rates offering great value.

In yet another global milestone, Etisalat today announced its foray into the next generation of the mobile network with considerable efforts towards 6G realisation, conducting research, developing international standards the main building blocks for the 6G ecosystem.

Haitham Abdulazzak, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat shared these insights during his address at the session titled ‘Setting the roadmap to 6G’ at the ongoing Mobile World Congress in Barcelona; the annual trade show dedicated to the mobile communications industry being held from 28th June until 1st July 2021.

Advancement and development of new mobile technologies has become much more rapid than ever. Introduction of new features, capabilities and use of millimeter frequencies seen in 5G is a result of this advancement, which is expected to be complemented with terahertz spectrum in 6G. Etisalat is one of the ambitious players making steps towards the sixth generation of the network.

“The excellent achievements by Etisalat today in 5G coverage, cloud native, slicing, Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) development, AI and automation platforms, as well as high fibre penetration which stands at more than 99 percent of UAE populated area coverage, is a result of the long term strategy paving the way towards 6G.

“We are committed to bringing the latest technologies to UAE market to enable digital societies. As part of our vision and future technology planning, 6G is going beyond earth networks into space to enable new era of services and usage scenarios with terabyte data traffic resulting in extra ordinary human to machine interaction. Etisalat is upgrading tools and capabilities of its R&D centre to enhance the contribution towards 6G global standardisation within the international fora and alliances.”

The promise of 6G is in the transformation of use cases targeted by 5G into a full integrated autonomy, enabling the move from science fiction to reality, robotic humans operation, sophisticated human to human, human to machine and machine to machine relationship. The 6G technology requires agile communications governance and increased collaboration across multisector stakeholders. The technology is seen as an enabler of new coverage dimensions in space and maritime in addition to the terrestrial dimension.

• Customers can now redeem and earn Smiles points on Cleartrip via the Smiles app

Smiles has teamed up with leading online travel portal Cleartrip to provide customers a facility to conveniently book their tickets directly on the Smiles app.

Customers usually book their airline tickets via airline or travel websites and on mobile apps. Now they can book their flights from more than 1,000 airlines with Cleartrip directly on the Smiles app either by using their Smiles points or paying with their credit card. They can also earn one Smiles point for every AED1 spent on the Cleartrip section on the Smiles app.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “We at Etisalat are continuously innovating and evaluating ways to bring more value to the growing number of Etisalat’s Smiles app users, which now stands at 2.3 million. With the easing of restrictions on travel to and from the UAE, citizens and residents are keen to travel abroad for leisure or visit family and friends in their home country.

“In partnership with Cleartrip, we can deliver greater value to Smiles customers who now have the flexibility and convenience to book flights on the Smiles app and earn points. Additionally, Smiles users will soon be able to book hotels for their trips abroad as well as for their staycation.”

Amit Taneja, Chief Business Officer, Cleartrip, said: “Cleartrip has always been at the forefront of travel innovation in the Middle East. We have sought to simplify the travel process through novel means such as our latest offering TravelSafe, which provides detailed travel guidelines for over 200 countries. As travel restrictions ease, Smiles users will now have the incredible opportunity to book their flights with Cleartrip using their Smiles points. Etisalat's renowned customer-centric approach is in perfect harmony with our ethos and we look forward to making travel simple for Smiles users.”

Smiles, one of the largest lifestyle engagement programmes in the UAE, has more than 2.3 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.

Etisalat today highlighted its plans to accelerate OpenRAN realisation as part of its cloud native NaaS transformation. Haitham Abdulrazzak, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat participated in an Open RAN (O-RAN) conference conducted earlier today at the ongoing Mobile World Congress in Barcelona; the annual trade show dedicated to the mobile communications industry being held from 28th June until 1st July 2021.

In 2020, Etisalat UAE deployed the first OpenRAN based mobile network cluster in the MENA, as one of the early adopters of the technology worldwide. Since then, the company embarked on an expanded scope to develop OpenRAN further on the network in the UAE.

During the conference he reflected on the efforts Etisalat has taken in adopting OpenRAN, “Etisalat has taken early strides going beyond research and development, leading the implementation of OpenRAN in UAE. Together with global stakeholders and partners, we are committed to advance a combined OpenRAN and MEC ecosystem development.”

“As a leading operator within the region, Etisalat’s appetite for new development stretches our vision to draw value from upcoming technologies by early realisation and contribution in the development processes. OpenRAN as part of our cloud native NaaS transformation will disrupt the ecosystems in mobile communications to the benefit of the industry.”

Etisalat has also made immense developments in the Access Network by developing state of the art AI, ML and Automation platform A3. The platform is designed with OpenRAN and MEC requirements in mind, accommodating OpenRAN on 4G, 5G and future technologies. “A3 is our flagship in achieving our OpenRAN vision, including zero touch across provisioning, optimisation, operations and planning, etc,” said Abdulrazzak.

• 5G millimeter wave (mmWave) technology deployed in the network
• High-band deployment offers subscribers faster speeds and lower latency

Etisalat today announced that it has joined forces with Ericsson to deploy 5G millimeter wave (mmWave) across its commercial network. The 5G high-band commercial deployment will help achieve high performance 5G downlink data speeds of 4.2Gbps and latency of 8 milliseconds (ms).

Etisalat has built a 5G network infrastructure that can be enabled with superior performance, including ultra-high speeds and ultra-low latency to enable the digital transformation in the country and the wide implementation of use cases related to industry 4.0, automation and Internet of Things (IoT).

The UAE leadership is a driving force in accelerating the digital vision along with the telecom regulatory authority TDRA (Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority) becoming one of the first to allocate mmWave spectrum to be used for 5G technology deployment across the country.

5G mmWave delivers high spectrum and capacity, making it ideal for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) to deliver fast, fiber-like internet speeds wirelessly over the last mile, and for crowded hotspots such as stadiums, malls and large indoor events that require high peak rates. It also includes wide spectrum segments available for 5G along with lower latencies.

Haitham AbdulRazzak, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat has always been at the forefront of the telecom industry, and we continuously work to provide our customers with the best possible digital experience. This deployment is in line with our overall vision to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’ empowering our customer with the experience of ultrahigh quality 5G connectivity. Moving ahead we look forward to expanding this technology further on demand for all customer segments.”

Saeed Alzarouni, Senior Vice President Mobile Network, Etisalat, added: “We are proud to have introduced 5G mmWave as part of the UAE’s digital infrastructure. Etisalat is always working towards providing the best and ensuring the latest technology is available to all our customers. The partnership with Ericsson is a key milestone in our 5G journey that will support the automation and massive bandwidth demands of futuristic technologies and advanced use cases.”

Ekow Nelson, Vice President and Head of Global Customer Unit Etisalat at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, said: “We look forward to supporting Etisalat in harnessing the opportunities that new technologies like 5G can present for the people of the UAE. In combination with established solutions, such as Fixed Wireless Access, largely untapped mmWave frequencies can help meet the increased demands for high-quality connectivity while facilitating exciting use cases from advanced video streaming and online gaming with augmented and virtual reality experiences to industrial IoT and smart factories.”

The 5G standardisation focuses on certain requirements to provide connectivity for superior services, such as enhanced mobile broadband to smartphones and other mobile devices for video streaming and real-time online gaming, as these have extreme requirements on availability, latency, and reliability.

In response, 5G radio frequency ranges were widened to meet the need for enhanced mobile broadband and performance. The 5G radio frequencies now include all those previously held by 4G, as well as more frequencies up to 6GHz (Sub-6) and the high-band (mmWave) spectrum beyond 24GHz. The next wave of 5G expansion will allow businesses of all types to reap the benefits of enhanced mobility, flexibility, reliability and security, making emerging technologies outlined for the future development of the UAE such as autonomous driving, automated factories, robotic process automation, virtual and augmented reality possible.

The telecom wholesale business will continue to play a pivotal role in the future just as how it has been especially evident during the pandemic, said Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer, Etisalat, during the second day of the Telecoms World Middle East 2021.

“During Covid-19, the telecom wholesale business played a critical role in making things work for the world. We witnessed its ability to accommodate the surge in data and SMS traffic, which was triggered by the huge increase of all kinds of online activities. All these were made possible with a well- established carrier wholesale ecosystem,” said Amiri.

Amiri, who participated in a keynote panel on ‘A post-pandemic market: innovation and technology remain key for wholesale success’, said successful telecom wholesalers of the future must have the infrastructure or ecosystem that enables a customer experience that matches the digital players. This can be enabled by automation, virtualisation, and on demand services that are delivered in near real-time.

He also shared his insights into digitalisation, automation, and standardisation, which are essential for carrier wholesalers to be more agile and open.

“Digital wholesalers will be able to provide services on demand using easy to use customer portals or applications, enabled by the virtualisation of the network. This requirement is vital to be able to serve new types of customers in addition to telcos such as Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) platform providers, content providers, gaming and financial services sectors,” Amiri said.

The panel also delved into harnessing virtualised communications, business intelligence, machine learning and blockchain in their products, and wholesale delivery architecture; and dramatically advancing digital wholesale opportunities and replacing legacy systems for future agility.

The two-day virtual event, which concluded on 16th June, focused on the strategies, technologies and big ideas that will be essential for telecommunication companies in 2021.

The telecoms industry and 5G play a major role in supporting digital transformation as businesses move towards more collaborative and immersive remote working, said Hatem Bamatraf, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat International, during the Telecoms World Middle East 2021.

“The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation globally with a shift in investment opportunities and changes in online behaviours. Remote working infrastructure, new online services, technology skills and cyber security are now common investment priorities for governments, corporates, and SMEs. These changed investment priorities are accelerating the digital transformation of society,” said Bamatraf.

Bamatraf, who delivered a keynote opening presentation titled ‘Shaping a new future for businesses and consumers with 5G and advanced technologies’, underscored 5G’s huge potential as a game changer for several industries. 5G offers exciting new revenue prospects but telcos need to go beyond connectivity to achieve good return on investment, he stressed.

Recent analysis has estimated that by 2025 there will be around $4.7 trillion of revenue generated and associated in some way by 5G or advanced connectivity. Around $1.6 trillion will be directly due to connectivity, and the remaining $3.1 trillion will be hardware, software, services, platforms, etc.

The two-day virtual event on 15th and 16th June brings together CEOs and key decision makers of the leading regional operators to discuss the current landscape, their growth strategies, and investing for their future.

Etisalat chief executives participated in panel discussions and live interactive sessions moderated by global and regional experts. Mohamed Almarzooqi, Vice President, Synergy and Operation Support, Etisalat International, shared his insights into ‘Next generation networks with the power to transform how industries operate’.

Antonio Ricciardi, Senior Vice President, Consumer Intelligence and Engagement, Etisalat, meanwhile took part in a panel discussion on ‘Unlocking value with the next generation of customer value management’.Antonio Ricciardi, Senior Vice President, Consumer Intelligence and Engagement, Etisalat, meanwhile took part in a panel discussion on ‘Unlocking value with the next generation of customer value management’.

At a session titled ‘Building digitally connected infrastructure in Middle East and Africa’, Abdulrahman Alhumaidan, Senior Director, Fixed Access Network Planning and Design, Etisalat, discussed the opportunities and challenges of building a digitally connected national infrastructure, the impact of 5G on national infrastructure, and the investment and regulatory framework.

• Broadcasters and industry professionals will be able to analyse and respond to viewership data of over 3.5 million UAE TV viewers via independently accredited TAM system

Dubai, 25th May 2021: E-Vision today announced a new initiative identifying the audience's selections, trends, and desires from eLife, the region’s largest and most successful IPTV service that is set to put the UAE at the forefront of TV audience measurement in the MENA region.

Television Audience Measurement (TAM) system identifies the number of views and the interests of TV viewers, so that TV stations can develop their programs to match the desires of their audience and to air them at the most appropriate timings.

For many years, the MENA TV industry has had to rely on telephone surveys for audience information, whilst broadcasters around the world have had access to people metering (direct recording of TV viewing) to measure and understand audience nature. This is about to change with E-Vision’s initiative.

The TAM system is accredited by an independent audit agency following rigorous testing and verification. Broadcasters, agencies, advertisers, consultants and industry experts will be able to subscribe to the data and log in to access a wide range of reporting tools.

“We are proud to be leading the way in the MENA region by offering exceptionally powerful audience analytics tools to industry professionals,” remarked Olivier Bramly, CEO of E-Vision. “By giving broadcasters insights about the interests and desires of our viewers, we are providing them with the tools they need to make their channels more relevant and attractive towards their viewers and more efficient towards agencies and advertisers.”

The TAM system will measure audience reach, ratings, share and viewing time for over 530 channels, and will cover both live and catch-up viewing across all viewers. Subscribers to the TAM system will be able to monitor viewing of any period, ranging from same day to previous years and have access to a variety of configurable reports within the TAM system, offering them a fully detailed analysis and reports with channel-related filters.

Broadcasters and other industry professionals now have access to detailed performance reporting for both TV channels and individual TV shows in TAM. Further functionalities measuring the performance of TV advertising will be released later this year.

E-Vision has partnered exclusively with ChannelSculptor to manage the distribution and client support of the TAM system. ChannelSculptor was selected for its position as a leading industry consultancy, its exceptional reach amongst broadcasters in the MENA TV industry and its leading position in audience analytics, serving major regional and international TV networks.

• New facility leverages partner ecosystem to enable scalable, agile infrastructure
• Subsea telecom system Africa-1 lands at new SmartHub
• Addresses the growing demand and enhancing geo-diversity

Etisalat today announced the further expansion of its SmartHub with a third location opening in Kalba complete with a state-of-art Tier 3 data centre facility addressing the growing demand and enhancing geographical diversity.

SmartHub Kalba is Etisalat’s third wholesale data centre, following the opening of facilities in Fujairah and Dubai last year. The new data centre will offer geo-redundant ecosystem for global players to expand their regional presence. Additionally the new facility is also selected to be the landing for Africa-1, a new subsea telecom system connecting Africa, the Middle East and Europe. This gives SmartHub Kalba a pivotal role in catering towards facilitating faster connectivity to various global partners.

With the launch of its latest facility, Etisalat’s Carrier & Wholesale Services (C&WS) has set a benchmark in the region, and is a testimony to the company’s strategy to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’. It is also in line with UAE leadership’s vision to continue leading as an ICT and data hub for the region addressing the diverse requirements of global telecom infrastructure.

Ali Amiri, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, Etisalat, said: “As one of the biggest neutral carrier hotels, Etisalat’s SmartHub data centres will be an ICT bridge between continents always supporting critical business activities of global customers. SmartHub Kalba will enable us to increase our capabilities and global capacity to meet our international clients’ expanding needs for infrastructure across Asia, Africa, Europe, Middle East and the Americas. We at Etisalat are committed to making ‘SmartHub’ a preferred location for carriers, cloud service providers, Internet exchanges and companies looking for a carrier grade data centres.”

The new facility is scheduled to be operational by the first quarter of 2022 providing a robust data centre infrastructure evolving to meet future demands including landing of a new generation of submarines as well as becoming a disaster recovery hub for Etisalat’s customers in the Fujairah SmartHub.

• Tie up with Khalifa Fund via the e-Empower programme
• Registered e-Empower SMBs will have access to Hello Business Hub, digital academy and a comprehensive digital platform

Etisalat today announced its value propositions that address the varying requirements of Abu Dhabi’s small and medium businesses (SMBs) in a bid to boost their digital transformation journey.

This follows Khalifa Fund for Medium Enterprise Development’s recent announcement of Etisalat and Microsoft being the latest industry leading organisations to come on board the e-Empower programme ecosystem with innovative resources, such as webinars, workshops, preferential rates and digital support.

Etisalat is committed to support the growth of UAE’s SMB sector, which represents more than 94 percent of the total number of companies operating in the UAE and employs over 86 percent of the private sector workforce, according to the Ministry of Economy.

Abu Dhabi’s start-up community will have access to a dedicated platform that has all the information of the initiatives. Registered e-Empower SMBs will gain access to Etisalat’s one-stop destination ‘Hello Business Hub’. The dedicated business hub offers tailored telecommunications as well as value added services to SMBs while providing them the ease and flexibility of kick-starting their operations in the UAE, whether it be registering their company, setting up a bank account, telecommunication services or another aspect of operational set-up.

Etisalat’s Hello Business Hub partners will provide exclusive trade license and banking offers for the startups to legalise their presence in Abu Dhabi.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “We are honoured to be a strategic partner of Khalifa Fund and be part of the e-Empower programme, enabling us to cater to the requirements of small enterprises and startups, while helping them to grow their business and accelerate their digital transformation.”

Khalifa Fund’s SMBs will also have access to Etisalat’s digital academy, providing a host of informative videos, interviews with subject matter experts, and webinars that will take their business to the next level. In addition, the start-up community can benefit from Etisalat’s customised comprehensive digital platform addressing all their business needs, ranging from smart connectivity to office productivity, business devices, digital marketing solutions and Microsoft business applications.

Etisalat is offering preferential rates for Microsoft 365 and digital support as well as educational webinars sponsored by Microsoft to help SMBs upskill, grow and run their business.

• New bonds issuance aim to maximise shareholders’ value by reducing the cost of funding

Etisalat Group announced the successful completion of a bond issuance worth one billion euros to refinance the maturing bond tranche it had issued in 2014 for the acquisition of a controlling stake in Maroc Telecom.

Etisalat Group issued bonds in two tranches, the first is a 7 years tranche amounting to 500 million euros with an annual yield of 0.4%. The second tranche for a period of 12 years amounts to 500 million euros with an annual yield of 1%.

The refinancing decision aims to diversify the company’s sources of funds and extending the repayment schedule of existing debt while taking benefit of improved cost of funding thereby maximizing shareholders value. The bond issuance was very successful as it witnessed a remarkable demand from local and international investors with being 6 times oversubscribed.

This high demand reflects investors’ confidence in Etisalat Group’s performance, strong financial profile and credit ratings; Aa3 stable (Moody’s) and AA- Stable (S&P Global), one of the highest rating in the industry. This also highlights the growing confidence of international investors in the UAE economy.

• Best time to be on eLife Unlimited Plans
• Entry speed now upgraded from 250 Mbps to 500Mbps
• Free speed upgrade valid from 6^th May until 31^st July 2021

Etisalat today announced that customers on eLife Unlimited plans would get a free broadband speed upgrade until the end of July.

Etisalat is committed to keeping the UAE at the forefront of telecommunications worldwide, delivering customers the fastest mobile network experience on earth. Further supporting this commitment, eLife Unlimited plans are the number one choice for home broadband entertainment in the UAE, and are setting the benchmark for fixed broadband network speeds, starting from 250Mbps.

From 6^th May until 31^st July 2021, the entry-level plan, ‘eLife Unlimited Starter’, will now offer 500Mbps, double the current 250Mbps. Both eLife Unlimited Sports and Entertainment plans, currently at 500Mbps, will now offer 750 Mbps during this period.

The free speed upgrade gives eLife Unlimited customers the best of Etisalat’s fixed network, making this one of the best times for new customers to join eLife Unlimited. Existing customers on older generation eLife plans can benefit from a limited time 10x increase in speeds when they upgrade to an eLife Unlimited plan during this time.

The speed upgrade is automatically applied for all eligible customers without any changes to their commitments or any need to opt-in; they will simply enjoy the new speeds until the end of the promotional period. After this, speed will revert to the plan’s original speed.

Khaled El Khouly, Chief Consumer Officer at Etisalat, said: “We, at Etisalat, are delighted to offer our home eLife Unlimited customers a free speed upgrade as a token of our appreciation and gratitude for their continued support. Our eLife Unlimited plans are designed to cater to the needs of our customers who require superfast broadband to support an increasing number of devices in their homes. Etisalat continuously invests in innovation, next-generation technologies and services to enhance the network, and is committed to blazing fast internet speeds, rich and exclusive TV content and best in class Wi-Fi equipment.”

eLife Unlimited allows customers to enjoy all the premium content from major TV broadcasters, media and content companies such as MBC, OSN, BeIN and StarzPlay on one box, to ensure that non-stop entertainment is delivered to every household in the country.

• UAE is leading among 135+ countries in Ookla Global Country Mobile rankings for 1Q of 2021
• Etisalat, recognised as world’s fastest mobile network, enables the country’s top ranking

The UAE leads a global mobile index as the country with the fastest mobile network speed in the first quarter of 2021, according to the latest data from Ookla, a global leader in fixed broadband and mobile network testing applications, data and analysis.

This significant achievement adds one more feather to the UAE’s cap, and comes at an opportune time with the recent declaration of 2021 as "Year of the 50th" as the nation celebrates its milestone Golden Jubilee.

With a download speed of 178.52 Mbps in March, the country overtook South Korea and Qatar in the mobile broad speedtest. The UAE also overtook both countries in January and February, with download speeds of 183.03 Mbps and 177.10 Mbps, respectively.

The Speed Test Global index, which assesses over 135 countries, compares internet speed data from around the world on a monthly basis. Data for the index comes from the hundreds of millions of tests taken by real people using the speed test every month.

Mobile network speed is a major contributing factor to the well-being, economic wealth and social prosperity of a nation. This achievement has a lot of favourable implications for a enabling environment for future aspirations, country’s ICT agenda, productivity of businesses, amongst others.

Etisalat is proud to contribute to the UAE ranking first in terms of mobile network speed. This is yet another milestone achievement for the UAE, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority as well as Etisalat’s testament to its relentless efforts towards its strategy and vision to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’. As the country's leading mobile operator and world's fastest mobile network, Etisalat is uplifting the national performance, enabling the ICT aspirations of the country’s leadership.

Etisalat today announced that it will offer iPad Pro, the most powerful and advanced iPad Pro ever, now with support for ultra-fast 5G, at its retail stores across the UAE, via www.etisalat.ae, or My Etisalat app.

Customers booked their orders for the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation) and iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation) starting from Friday, 30th April 2021 at 5am Pacific Time (4pm UAE).

Etisalat will also offer the all-new AirTag accessory, a private and secure way to locate the items that matter the most, at its retail stores across the UAE, via www.etisalat.ae, or My Etisalat app.

Orders began on Friday, 23rd April 2021 at 5am Pacific Time (4pm UAE time). Retail sales and customer deliveries started on Friday, 30th April 2021 at 8am UAE time.

• Heartwarming Labour Day video depicts emotional side of this vibrant community
• Inspiring message to the UAE’s ‘hidden’ heroes: “You’ve built today so let us build your child’s tomorrow’
• Workers were each gifted a scholarship for their children’s higher education

Fifteen construction workers of various nationalities got a surprise of a lifetime in a touching tribute ahead of Labour Day.

It all began with a concept – to honour the UAE’s ‘hidden’ heroes to mark Labour Day - but Etisalat took it up a notch and made the celebration more meaningful, touching everyone’s hearts, bringing them joy, and putting a smile on their faces.

The workers were selected from four labour camps in Dubai to participate in a special project. They were transported to a site where they unknowingly pieced together a massive tile structure with a hidden message. As it was slowly taking shape, little did they know what lay in store for them and their families that fateful night.

Flashed on a giant screen was an inspiring message: ‘You’ve built today, so let us build your child’s tomorrow’. The men broke into rapturous applause and got teary-eyed when finally told of Etisalat’s surprise gift: “So, as you can see in the tile structure you’ve just created, we want to help you play an important part in your future. In particular, your children’s future. Etisalat is giving a AED25,000 scholarship towards your children’s higher education.”

Each worker stood up, received a ceremonial certificate and excitedly called their families back home. Abdul Latif Awan, a 65-year-old father of two from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, said: “I had never imagined that my prayers this Ramadan will be answered and that I will get such a big reward from Etisalat so that my children’s life will be taken care of. I have given 38 years of my life in this country, and this country has given me such a big parting gift. I will cherish this all my life.”

Like many migrant workers, 34-year-old Indian Shaikh Riyazuddin came to Dubai in 2018 in the hope of securing a better for himself and his family. Fighting back tears, he said: “Today we worked so hard and Etisalat has rewarded us. I want our adopted daughter to get a higher education so she can stand on her own two feet and be ready for the world.  I am very happy that I will be able to give her a good education.”

“With this money, I can help build a brighter future for my family and can also save for their future,” said Mohammed Firoj Mia, a Bangladeshi father of two who arrived in Dubai in 2004. “I’m very grateful to Etisalat. Because of this, I will be able to fulfill a very big dream of mine.”

Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, said: “We at Etisalat believe that these workers, who left their home countries to work in the UAE, are an integral part of the country’s success story. Their contributions to the society and economy are invaluable; they are playing a key role in the construction of world-famous skyscrapers and iconic sites. It is but fitting for us to mark Labour Day by paying tribute to their hard work and sacrifices.”

The UAE, home to about 2.2 million blue collar workers, observes International Workers Day, also known as ‘Labour Day’ on 1^st May every year. It aims to recognise the labourers' efforts across the nation.

To view the ‘Labour Day’ video, click here.

Representing a 7.9% increase YOY


Etisalat Group today announced its consolidated financial statements for the three months ending 31st March 2021.

Financial Highlights and Key Developments of Q1

• Aggregate subscriber base reached 156 million, representing a year over year increase of 4%.
• Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 13.2 billion while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 2.3 billion representing a year over year increase of 7.9% and resulting in a net profit margin of 18%.
• Consolidated EBITDA totaled AED 6.8 billion, representing an increase of 0.7% year over year and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51%.
• Etisalat crowned strongest brand in the MEA region across all categories.
• Etisalat Misr and Huawei completed the first VoLTE call using Huawei’s Virtual IMS
• Etisalat launched the region’s first online Mobile Service Centre, offering real-time visibility and control over business customers’ mobile usage.
• Etisalat partnered with Aruba to offer managed Wi-Fi and networking solutions.
• Etisalat partnered with Cisco to simplify Emirates Internet Exchange (EMIX) operations by building the region’s first open and autonomous and secured network.
• Etisalat collaborated with Smart Dubai to provide cyber security services to Dubai government entities.
• Etisalat is now Etihad Airways’ official telecom partner, providing the best-in-class mobile and digital solutions for the evolving business requirements of the SMB and startup community.
• Digital Financial Services partnered with Al-Futtaim to enable secure and contactless payment options for eWallet customers.
• As part of its commitment to support and empower People of Determination Etisalat partnered with Ministry of Community Development to launch a web extension to make accessing the web autistic friendly.
• Etisalat launched the Smiles’ food order and delivery service in the UAE.

CEO Message:

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group

“Etisalat Group’s first quarter results are a continuation of the strong performance the company has achieved over the past year due to the resilience and agility shown across our business operations. The company generated record results in the new hybrid scenario helping consumers adapt to a new work-and-learn-from-anywhere reality while continuing to deliver innovative services subscribers require and demand.

“Our teams rallied to support our customers with technology playing a central role in keeping our society, economy and lives connected. Digital evolution is the future where telecom operators are the key players to enable the transition and be the exemplary adopters of digital transformation. Stemming from this conviction, Etisalat will continue its efforts to align its business with the digital mandate it has undertaken, by shifting the operating model, investing in future technologies, generating new revenue streams and by acquiring and disseminating digital capabilities across its markets.

Etisalat is also thankful to the vision of our wise leadership in the UAE in positioning the country among the most digitally advanced globally, inspiring us to deliver world-class networks and innovative services. We will continue to focus on capitalising opportunities and enhancing overall customer experience while delivering long-term value for all our shareholders.”

Subscribers

In the UAE the subscriber base reached 12.4 million subscribers in Q1 of 2021, while aggregate subscriber base reached 156 million, representing a year over year increase of 4%.

Revenue & Net Profit

Consolidated revenues amounted to AED 13.2 billion while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty amounted to AED 2.3 billion representing a year over year increase of 7.9% and resulting in a net profit margin of 18%.

EBITDA:

Group Consolidated EBITDA for the first quarter of 2021 increased by 0.7% to AED 6.8 billion while EBITDA margin remained stable year on year at 51%.

Held under the patronage of UAE Ministry of Economy & empowered by Ericsson

Abu Dhabi 22 April 2021: Etisalat today announced its successful participation at the ‘Together Apart Hackathon’ that engaged innovators, entrepreneurs and disruptors of the UAE to identify innovative and viable solutions showcasing how technology and connectivity facilitate the challenges and provide solutions inspired by UAE Vision 2021 themes showcasing the power of 5G.

Under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Economy and empowered by Ericsson the ‘Together Apart Hackathon’ kicked off on 22nd April 2021 concluding on 31st March 2022. The event is aimed at attracting new ideas and stimulate innovations in the target verticals aligned to the UAE vision 2021.

Participants at the event included eminent speakers from Etisalat, namely Mahmoud Al Bannay, Vice President 5G, Mobile Network & AI; Khalid Ghaloua Adine, Head of Digital Health Care; Dr. Tamer El Toni, VP Digital Services and Devices; and Dr. Abdelkader Houssaine - Head of Digital Education and eGovernment.

Al Bannay was part of a panel discussion focusing on ‘Changing the conversation with 5G-Role of 5G’. “In our quest to drive the UAE government’s ICT vision Etisalat has continuously invested in deploying advanced technologies that has led to positioning the network as the fastest on earth. We began this journey with a planned and strategic infrastructure building approach fusing the capabilities of cloud, AI and machine learning to build a 5G network. This has become a stimulus for innovation and development in the UAE,” he said during the session.

Adine participated in a panel title ‘World Class Healthcare’ while Dr. El Toni shed light on the ‘Competitive Knowledge Economy’. Dr Houssaine shared insights on the ‘First Rate Education System’ during his session.

At the end of the hackathon a total of six winning teams will be chosen – one winning team from each focus area in UAE Vision 2021. The six winning teams will receive support in testing their solutions and will also be given the chance to showcase their solutions at the Swedish Pavilion in Expo2020. One team will receive the grand prize to visit Ericsson’s headquarters in Sweden to pitch the team’s solution and interact with the entrepreneurial community.

• Easily make payments using eWallet at Lulu hypermarkets, supermarkets, department stores and webstore
• Enjoy an array of benefits from quick checkouts to a secure and contactless payment facility

Digital Financial Services LLC, a joint venture of Etisalat and Dubai Islamic Bank, has partnered with Lulu Group International to enable secure and contactless payment options for eWallet customers. The official launch was attended by Dr. Tamer Eltoni, Chief Commercial Officer of Digital Financial Services, and Ashraf Ali, Executive Director of Lulu Group International.

With this partnership, eWallet customers will be able to use their eWallet for purchases made at Lulu hypermarkets, supermarkets, department stores across the UAE as well as in Lulu’s web store. By using eWallet, customers will enjoy an array of benefits from quick checkouts to a secure and contactless payment facility. 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 within the UAE as well, amongst 200 countries and territories, simply through their mobile phones. Further services include transfer to own or third-party bank accounts, direct merchant payments, bill payments, and mobile recharges, amongst others.

Ahmed Al Awadi, Chairman of Digital Payment Services, said: “eWallet continues to be at the forefront of innovation as more UAE residents experience the benefits of a secure and contactless payment method, even more so during these unprecedented times. Our partnership with Lulu Group International demonstrates our commitment towards an instant and cashless payments ecosystem, further enriching our consumers with a state-of-the-art customer service experience.”

Ashraf Ali MA, Executive Director, Lulu Group International, said: “Innovation and ease of doing business have always been our key focus areas. Contactless payment options are of prime importance to us and we strongly believe that collaborating with tech leaders such as Digital Financial Services will further boost the in-store and online shopping experience of our large multi-ethnic shoppers. “

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

• One of the first commercialised blockchain applications in the country
• Nationwide platform to create an ecosystem for multiple trade-related entities
• Solves various issues in trade finance e

UAE Trade Connect (UTC), a new nationwide blockchain platform co-created by Etisalat Digital and seven leading UAE banks and Avanza Innovations and initially ideated by First Abu Dhabi Bank, goes commercially live today. This unique platform invites all UAE banks and the supply chain industry to join the platform to combat fraud and duplication, among other issues in the trade finance space.

The commercial launch took place earlier today at a virtual press conference in the presence of senior management from UTC and partnering banks.

The steering committee for the platform consists of the Central Bank of the UAE and seven leading banks namely Commercial Bank International (CBI), Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Mashreq Bank, National Bank of Fujairah (NBF), and RAKBANK..

Dr. Sabri Al Azazi, Chief Operating Officer at the Central Bank of the UAE, said: “The Central Bank promotes financial and monetary stability, efficiency and resilience in the financial system. The launch of the UTC Digital Trade Platform is one of the key steps towards achieving this goal as it will help to minimize the risks of fraud inherent in the existing paper-based system in trade finance. It also reflects the banking sector's commitment to step up the digital transformation process to prepare the UAE to enter into the new digital banking era.“

He added: "The new platform will enhance international collaboration and innovation, and produce fruitful results for the trade finance industry globally.”

Zulqarnain Javaid, CEO, UTC, said: “Today’s announcement is a milestone moment in the financial sector in UAE. Technological advancements are presenting innovative solutions to historic problems and enabling the sector to power forward. The solution is aligned with the UAE government’s vision to bring futuristic technologies like blockchain and will be yet another enabler for economic growth”.

The steering committee commented: “UTC has created a platform to find duplicates and close-matches of trade invoices, from within millions of invoices being handled by UAE banks. By de-risking trade financing it is envisaged that SME’s will have improved access to funding for trade and supply chain related finance.”

The platform is based on blockchain and other disruptive technologies enabling data to be shared in a secure manner. Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) read invoices to identify duplications, frauds and dubious transactions within the banking trade finance offering.

The initial phase will focus on addressing the risks of double-financing and invoice fraud before turning to other key areas of trade finance, such as digitalizing bills of lading and e-invoices. UTC is aimed at driving digital transformation of trade in the UAE by enabling banks, enterprises and government authorities to collectively benefit from future technologies.

Etisalat Digital, along with the seven banks, has formed a working group to further develop and extend the solution to other areas of trade. This nationwide platform, which is open for all UAE banks to join, will safeguard banks from potential fraud losses through advanced detection tools, allowing them to extend additional financing to their corporate and SME clients.

The platform has also won the ‘Fintech Partnership of the Year’ award at Fintech Abu Dhabi Awards organised by Abu Dhabi Global Market and the Central Bank of the UAE last year.

• Partnership with Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives
• Order food from the Smiles app to donate to the ‘100 Million Meals’ initiative

Etisalat today announced that its award-winning deals and rewards programme Smiles has partnered with Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) to support the global ‘100 Million Meals’ humanitarian campaign during Ramadan.

Smiles customers can help provide ‘100 Million Meals’ to vulnerable communities in the world throughout the holy month in two ways. They can order food on the Smiles app, and Smiles will donate 5 percent of the total order value to the ‘100 Million Meals’ initiative. In addition, Smiles members can order Iftar or suhoor meals on the Smiles app and donate them to the initiative.

Khaled El Khouly, Chief Consumer Officer of Etisalat, said: “We are honoured to partner with Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives in its ‘100 Million Meals’ humanitarian campaign. Having launched the food order and delivery service on the Smiles app earlier this year, it just made perfect sense for us at Etisalat to offer people in need of a meal or food parcel, especially those families and communities affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Our contribution via the Smiles app is our simple way to expand our support for the community this Ramadan, the month of giving.”

The ‘100 Million Meals’ follows the highly successful ‘10 Million Meals’, the nation's biggest community campaign launched in 2020 under the umbrella of the MBRGI in collaboration with Social Solidarity Fund Against Covid-19. The campaign enables corporates, entities, humanitarian and charitable organisations, businessmen, philanthropists and the public to make financial contributions towards meals and donate food items to support vulnerable individuals and families.

In February 2021, Smiles launched its food order and delivery service in the UAE, covering more than 3,000 restaurants on the app, across the UAE. With the delivery feature, customers can order food from restaurants around them, earn and redeem Smiles points on their food deliveries, and enjoy unique discount deals on food deliveries exclusive to Smiles. Customers ordering food via the app earn Smiles points on any card payment.

Smiles, a lifestyle engagement programme in the UAE, has more than 2.3 million registered members and is open to all citizens, residents and visitors of the UAE. Smiles offers everyday savings to its members through earn and redemption of Smiles points for Etisalat, partner products and services, food delivery 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.

Etisalat today announced the launch of an Esports tournament with Manchester City Football Club, targeting the FIFA gaming community across UAE and Egypt during Ramadan.

Esports is the latest development in Etisalat’s long-term partnership with Manchester City as the Official Telecom Partner of the Club.

Etisalat is one of the Official Partners of Manchester City’s global Esports programme, in addition to sponsoring the Club’s esports kit worn by its professional FIFA esports players. The partnership is an opportunity to be a global driver of Esports and connect in new ways with an ever-growing community of gamers in the countries where Etisalat operates.

The online FIFA tournament is a great opportunity to be engaged at home during the holy month of Ramadan, and is targeted at gamers in UAE and Egypt on the PlayStation gaming console. It is organised by Electronic Sports League (ESL), an esports organiser and production company known for producing video game competitions globally. The Grand Finals will be broadcast live on Twitch and YouTube, with cash prizes and two PlayStation 5 consoles being given away to the winners.

Starting from 14th April, interested gamers from UAE and Egypt can register to participate in the qualifying matches set to take place on 7th May for Egypt (http://bit.ly/ManCityEsportsCupEgypt) and 8th May for UAE (http://bit.ly/ManCityEsportsCupUAE) with the finals on 14th and 15th May.

In addition to enjoying success on the pitch, Manchester City are aiming to lead the way in the esports world with Shaun ‘Shellzz’ Springette recently emerging as the ePremier League Champion, qualifying to compete in such tournaments as FIFA Global Series European Playoffs.

Shellzz is joined by Ryan Pessoa as part of Man City’s FIFA esports team representing the Club in major competitions around the world, with Pessoa competing on Xbox and Shellzz on PlayStation. Both players are recognised by the gaming population and regularly engage with fellow gamers through their Twitch and Facebook channels.

• Postpaid customers can enjoy double data while prepaid customers can avail double data and voice at no extra cost when they subscribe to Ramadan special packs
• Amazing discounts of up to 75% on devices, TVs and accessories to treat yourself or gift your loved ones

Etisalat today announced the launch of ‘Closer Together with Ramadan offers’, providing special bundles for its postpaid and prepaid customers so they can enjoy twice as much data and voice allowances at no extra cost.

Taking it to the next level, Etisalat is also offering up to a whopping 75 percent discount on a wide range of devices, TVs and accessories this Ramadan until Eid Al Fitr from 13th April to 17th May across Etisalat retail stores, via www.etisalat.ae, or My Etisalat app. Customers can enjoy good deals on the latest smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs and accessories from popular brands to treat themselves or gift their loved ones.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “Ramadan is a month of spiritual reflection and a special time for family and friends to come together to strengthen their bonds. In keeping with the spirit of the month of giving, we are doubling our customers’ data and voice allowances absolutely free when they subscribe to our Ramadan special bundles, so they can spread joy, share Ramadan moments as and when they happen, and strengthen social relationships throughout the holy month.

“Etisalat is delighted to also offer generous discounts on the latest devices, TVs and accessories. With everyone looking forward to treating themselves and planning gifts for family and friends ahead of Eid Al Fitr, this is the best time to buy them at a huge discount.”

Starting from 13th April to 13th May, postpaid customers can subscribe to any of the four data packs and double their 1GB up to 10GB data allowances for free. It is a one-time offer with a 30-day benefit period from the subscription date and multiple subscriptions are allowed.

Prepaid customers can subscribe to any of the five combo packs offering free double data and voice allowances, starting from doubling 500MB + 25 flexible minutes. For those looking for bigger data and more minutes, they can opt for the fifth combo pack where their 10GB + 250 flexible minutes allowances are doubled at no extra cost. Subscriptions are auto-renewable with a 28-day validity. Multiple subscriptions are allowed and the flexible minutes can be used for local and 65 IDD destinations.

Upon subscribing via Etisalat USSD code *101*77#, SMS, My Etisalat app and www.etisalat.ae, customers will receive double data and voice automatically.

To find out more about Etisalat’s special Ramadan postpaid and prepaid bundles as well as devices promotion, please visit www.etisalat.ae.

Etisalat announced the successful participation of Hatem Dowidar, CEO at Etisalat Group, at the Leaders’ Summit 2021 headlining top decision makers from the telecom and ICT industry spanning multiple geographies.

The virtual event gathered global leaders and entities focused on fostering cross sector collaboration as the world embraces new norms in socialisation, conducting business, and adopting digital technologies to benefit from the social and business values created by them.

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group, gave his insights into the increasing relevance of ‘Digital Transformation’ in today’s extraordinary times during a one-on-one session.

“The COVID-19 crisis provides a glimpse into a future world, one in which digital has become central to every interaction, forcing both organisations and individuals further up the adoption curve almost overnight. In this world, digital channels take precedence to build resilient societies, allowing millions of people to continue to work, buy basic necessities, socialise, access medical care, entertainment, and learn, all without leaving their homes. At Etisalat we have taken extraordinary measures to digitally accelerate, become agile and flexible to meet the varying customer requirements across sectors,” said Dowidar.

Bocar A. BA, CEO and Board Member SAMENA Telecommunications Council, UAE said, “I want to thank Eng. Dowidar for shedding light on the tremendous role of telecom operators and their commitment to bringing digital connectivity and benefits to everyone as we master our effort to achieve universal digital access, and tirelessly work that no one is left behind. The Leaders Summit this year 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 in the new normal.”

Leaders’ Summit 2021 organised by SAMENA Telecommunications Council is a premier annual congregation of public and private sector leaders from South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, Europe and beyond. The event is designed to exchange business, commercial, policy, and regulatory perspectives on rising complexities of the digital space in an open, multi-stakeholder setting and a world-class business ambience.

Etisalat honoured its top performing partners of 2020 at the virtual ‘Partner Awards Event 2021’.

Each year, Etisalat holds an awards ceremony to recognise and reward the company’s partners for their continued support and efforts in taking Etisalat to greater heights.

The event was held virtually this year in line with Covid-19 protocols and safety standards. A total of 45 partners were awarded from different segments mainly retailers, franchisees and distributors.

Omer Rashid, Senior Vice President, Sales Consumer, Etisalat, said: “Despite the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Etisalat had a very successful 2020. Our consumer sales partners played a very important role in these achievements. The ‘Partner Awards Event 2021’ reaffirms our commitment to building strong relationships with our partners in keeping with our slogan ‘Together Matters’.”

Mohamed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President, Distribution and Customer Registration, Etisalat, for his part, said: “We at Etisalat use this event as a platform to recognise as well as engage and motivate our partners and frontline staff. As we go from strength to strength, we look forward to working closely together, receiving feedback to maximise sales opportunities and hurdling challenges effectively so we can make 2021 yet another successful year.”

Etisalat’s partners expressed their appreciation for the awards and declared their continuous support for the event, which serves as a cornerstone of their success. These entities take pride in partnering with Etisalat, one of the world’s leading telecom groups in emerging markets, the fastest mobile network globally by Ookla, and the strongest brand across all categories in Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.

Held since 2016, this annual event seeks to recognise the top performing partners to drive passion, motivate and create a competitive environment.

• Easily make payments using eWallet at Al-Futtaim brand stores and webstore
• Enjoy an array of benefits from quick checkouts to a secure and contactless payment facility

Digital Financial Services, a joint venture of Etisalat and Dubai Islamic Bank, today announced its partnership with Al-Futtaim to enable secure and contactless payment options for eWallet customers across their brand network.

With this agreement, eWallet customers can now make purchases at selected Al-Futtaim brand stores across the UAE including leading brands such as Al Futtaim Watches and Jewelry, Watsons, IKEA, Marks & Spencer, ACE Hardware and Toys R Us among others. eWallet will enable customers to enjoy an array of benefits from quick checkouts to a secure and contactless payment facility. 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, eWallet subscribers can conduct digital payments without a bank account, credit or debit card. Customers only require 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 within the UAE as well as internationally amongst 200 countries and territories simply through their mobile phones. Further services include transfer to own or third-party bank accounts, direct merchant payments, bill payments, and mobile recharges, amongst others.

Ahmed Al Awadi, Chairman of Digital Payment Services at Etisalat, said: “Contactless payments have emerged as an integral solution for all businesses enabling them to drive their business forward along with ensuring safety to combat the current pandemic. eWallet has given all consumers and businesses a safe and convenient channel interacting with fewer surfaces providing an optimal and seamless experience.

“Today’s announcement reiterates our commitment in unlocking the value in mobile wallets for all customers and sharply moving forward to making eWallet the go-to payment source across all channels.”

Tansel Kilicarslan, Chief Transformation Officer at Al-Futtaim, noted: “Al-Futtaim’s ability to adapt and meet changing customer demands is a core strength, so expanding our contactless payment options during these times is an important development.”

Paul Carey, EVP, Cards & Payments at Al-Futtaim, commented: “As the digital payments landscape is rapidly changing in the UAE, our focus is to ensure our customers can pay with the latest payment solutions in a secure and seamless manner. Our partnership with eWallet will enable us to broaden our contactless payment options, so important at this time to safeguard our customers and staff when checking out.”

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

• Launch in partnership with Ministry of Community Development coincides with World Autism Acceptance Day
• ‘Etisalat Wider Web’ extension to enhance the browsing experience of autistic people
• Initiative is in line with Etisalat’s purpose of bringing people together & its commitment to breaking barriers

Etisalat, in partnership with the Ministry of Community Development, today announced the launch of a first of its kind web extension aimed at simplifying the World Wide Web and making it autistic-friendly.

The launch was made earlier today in the presence of Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, and Wafa Hamad Bin Sulaiman, Director of People of Determination Welfare and Rehabilitation Department at the Ministry of Community Development, to commemorate World Autism Acceptance Day, which falls on 2nd April.

The day aims to put a spotlight on some of the hurdles that autistic people face every day and celebrates the unique way autistic people view the world. The World Health Organisation estimates current global prevalence to range between 1 in 100 and 1 in 132 people.

A panel comprising autism specialists graced today’s virtual press conference, namely Dr. Sharifa Yateem, the first Emirati behaviour analyst certified by the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board and an autism expert; Amal Sabry, Founder and Managing Director at Emirates Autism Centre; and Dr. Rawhi Abdat, a researcher and psychologist at the Ministry of Community Development.

Etisalat tapped the expertise of Brussels-based IT company Bliss to come up with a web extension aimed at empowering autistic people and personalising their browsing experience. This extension was developed in collaboration with autistic people based in the UAE and guided by global evidence-based research findings on autistic-friendly designs.

On April 2nd, users can log on to the website and click ‘on’ to download and activate the ‘Etisalat Wider Web’ web extension. From April 3rd onwards, the web extension will remain on the Google extension page. Using the drop-down menu on Google, users can click on ‘More Tools’ and ‘Extension’. They can click on the ‘Etisalat Wider Web’ green icon, which has a description of the extension. Once activated, websites will display autistic-friendly settings such as neutral colours like dark grey or medium grey, simplified fonts, simplified menus, simplified layouts, fewer images, ad blockers, and carousel freezing to facilitate reduced sensory overload.

With Etisalat’s groundbreaking solution, autistic people worldwide can now access www.etisalat.ae and activate for free the ‘Etisalat Wider Web’ extension, which instantly transforms a standard web page into an autistic-friendly one.

The initiative is in line with Etisalat’s purpose of bringing people together as well as its commitment to inclusion and breaking barriers.

Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is honoured to launch the world’s first web extension dedicated to empowering autistic people because we believe the world is a better place when people come together, and is a testimony to our strong commitment to inclusion, accessibility and breaking barriers. This stems from our Corporate Social Responsibility strategy to support and empower People of Determination through a plethora of initiatives and services, and is aligned with our strategy of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies.”

Wafa Hamad Bin Sulaiman, Director of People of Determination Welfare and Rehabilitation Department at the Ministry of Community Development, said: “We live in a world where communication, digital content and information technology is constantly expanding. Covid-19 has increased this need, where autistic people, like others, become dependent on screens due to distance learning, remote work and the desire for virtual communication with others.

“The launch of this interactive web extension reflects this need to help autistic people who are browsing websites and improving their experiences in the Internet. This is in line with the accessibility axis in the national policy to empower people of determination, which includes easy access to informative content just like other individuals. The Ministry of Community Development is committed to collaborate with all initiative as well as support and empower priority groups especially when it comes to people of determination in a way that guarantees a better quality of life for all members of society.”

Dr. Shereen Sharaan, a postdoctoral researcher in psychology who is affiliated with The University of Edinburgh and Emirates Autism Centre, said: “Autism affects how you perceive and interact with the world, and there are differences in how an autistic person’s brain receives, processes, manages, and translates information into behaviour.

“A common phenomenon that autistic people can experience is sensory overload, where the brain receives more information than it can handle. This can result in confusion, anxiety, meltdowns, and/or even physical pain in autistic people. Unfortunately, sensory overload can be an all-too-common experience for autistic people, especially when spending time online, which is something most people need to do on a daily basis for work, education, leisure, and communication.”

• Chief Technology Officer highlights the transforming communications landscape
• Etisalat speakers highlight unlocking new 5G possibilities in the region

Etisalat today announced its successful participation at the 5G MENA 2021 Digital Symposium headlining eminent speakers sharing insights on the transforming communication landscape and immense opportunities in the 5G landscape.

The digital symposium took place virtually bringing together telecom representatives, operators, manufacturers and regulators in an effort to address all the stakeholders of the 5G ecosystem.

Hatem Bamatraf, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat Group gave a keynote address on transforming communications in the MENA region. The main discussion points focused on the changing role of a telco in becoming an enabler of digital transformation.

“Telcos have played a critical role in accelerating growth in the country and across sectors, bringing an advanced network and ground breaking advanced connectivity solutions. During the pandemic and in the new normal the pressing need for vital digital infrastructure and connectivity has increased the necessity to build resilient societies allowing millions of people to work and study from home. With the support of the government and regulators it’s possible to create an ecosystem where telco innovation can be unleashed.”

The other speakers from Etisalat Group included Hani Mohammad Yassin, Senior Director, Technology Strategy; Ayman Magdy Abousenna, Director, 5G networks & Digital Enablers Planning; and Fadi Shannah, Senior Director, Enterprise Sales.

Yassin took part in a panel discussion focusing on ‘Consumer 5G: from devices to FWA and beyond’ while Abousenna headlined a debate on ‘5G and edge unlocking new possibilities in MENA’. Shannah focused on MNO, vertical market and regulatory perspective on the 5G enterprise uptake and timelines in his session.

Etisalat’s successful 5G projects such as Expo 2020, Dubai Police, DMCC smart district services and remote autonomous operation in ports and oil fields were also discussed in detail.

• Appointed as official telecom partner to provide best-in-class mobile and digital solutions
• Etihad’s business customers and Hello Business Hub start-up community to enjoy special benefits

Etisalat announced today that it is Etihad Airways’ official telecom partner, providing the best-in-class mobile and digital solutions for the evolving business requirements of the small and medium business (SMB) and startup community, and enabling them through their digital transformation journey.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fatma Al Mehairi, Vice President of UAE Sales at Etihad Airways, in a ceremony attended by senior officials from both companies.

Under the terms of the partnership, both entities will work on providing customised value propositions for Etisalat and Etihad business customers. Etisalat will provide all its business customers and Hello Business Hub start up community with ‘value for money’ exclusive Etihad travel offers, while Etisalat will provide Etihad business customers access to special mobile and digital offerings.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB, Etisalat, said: “The SMB sector plays a key role in the UAE economy in driving innovation, job creation and disruptive business models. Etisalat has been working closely with start-ups and the SMB community to cater to their requirements and help them grow their business by ensuring a successful digital journey.

“This partnership with Etihad is integral to our successful journey for enabling best-in-class solutions and services with industry leaders. We look forward to collaborating with the UAE’s national airline to provide a comprehensive array of telecom and digital products and services that bring tremendous value to each other’s customers.”

Fatma Al Mehairi, Vice President UAE sales, Etihad Airways, said: “Etihad and Etisalat will cooperate to design special products, offers, and activities that support SMB’s to start and grow their business with the latest innovative and convenient solutions. The airline is always exploring new ventures to enhance the customer experience and partnering with a major player in the UAE economy like Etisalat will bring incremental value to both Etihad and Etisalat customers.”

Both parties will collaborate to enrich Etisalat’s business mobile plans with Etihad’s BusinessConnect, a smart loyalty programme for small to medium sized enterprises. Etisalat and Etihad will also look to collaborate on alternative digital channels that mutually enable them to sell their products and services on each other’s websites. For instance, Etisalat will have digital presence on Etihad Airways’ BusinessConnect website, enabling the airline’s customers to purchase telco products from Etisalat, and vice versa.

• AGM approves 49% ownership of non-UAE nationals

At Etisalat’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), shareholders have backed the board’s recommendation to pay full-year 2020 dividends of 80 fils per share, approved the cancellation of the share buyback program and instead agreed to a one-time special dividend of 40 fils per share, bringing the total dividend per share for 2020 to AED 1.20. The AGM backed the board’s recommendation to increase the non-UAE nationals share ownership limit to 49 percent.

The AGM also elected four board members to fill the seats of Etisalat Group’s Board of Directors that are not reserved for the Government Shareholder. The elected members are:

• Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Sultan Al Dhahiri
• Mr. Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal
• Mr. Khalid Abdulwahid Hassan Alrustamani
• Mr. Otaiba Khalaf Ahmed Al Otaiba

Etisalat Group also announced that the Emirates Investment Authority, as the government shareholder in the company, has appointed its representatives in the Etisalat board as the following:

• H.E. Jassem Mohamed Alzaabi, Chairman
• Mr. Essa Abdulfattah Kazim Al Mulla
• Mr. Hesham Abdulla Qassim Al Qassim
• Ms. Mariam Saeed Ahmed Ghobash
• Mr. Saleh Abdulla Ahmed Al Abdooli
• Mr. Mansoor Ibrahim Ahmed Almansoori
• Mr. Michel Combes

The new board of directors will begin their duties with the start of the new term of the board scheduled to begin on 21 March 2021.

H.E. Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman, Etisalat Group said: “I am pleased to announce that our shareholders approved the recommendation of the Board of Directors to proceed with a record high full year dividend payout. Another historical milestone was the approval of 49 percent ownership limit of non-UAE nationals that will help diversify the investor base and add further value to our current shareholders as well as bring liquidity and depth in Etisalat’s financial capabilities.

Thanks to the Group’s talented workforce and investment acumen, Etisalat was able to deliver on its vision in the current macro-economic climate. The unprecedented economic headwinds caused by COVID-19 have certainly demanded agility across our operations and we have demonstrated capabilities to quickly adapt to the present market conditions. Etisalat continued its focus on enhancing the core business and exploring new growth opportunities, while being well geared for the future with its digital capabilities and solutions. Etisalat’s dedication to continue to build a robust, agile and transformative business enabled us to meet customer demands for quality services during the lockdown, while generating shareholder value and returns.

I would like to express my gratitude to the visionary UAE leadership for their continuous support, the loyalty of our customers and the trust of our shareholders. I also want to extend my appreciation to Etisalat’s management team for their contribution to the company’s success and commitment during a challenging year while working towards achieving our vision and strategic goals.”

Eng. Hatem Dowidar CEO, Etisalat Group said: “In 2020 we have delivered robust financial performance with consolidated revenues reaching AED 51.7 billion while consolidated net profit after federal royalty amounted to AED 9.0 billion, an increase of 3.8 percent compared to the previous year. Despite the challenges, a strong execution, an agile and resilient business model led to EBITDA reaching AED 26.4 billion with a growth rate of 0.3 percent and a margin of 51.1 percent.

During these challenging times, we advanced our efforts to digitally transform our business both internally within the company and externally to all our customers, this led to increasing our subscriber base by 3.6 percent reaching a total of 154 million subscribers. This growth is central to our belief that the network and infrastructure has played a key role in empowering millions of customers during the pandemic. In the new normal, telecoms and digital technologies have become the anchor of our lives - be it remote working or virtual classrooms, our networks ensured that the world did not come to a standstill. Innovations in telecom and digital technologies have altered the fabric of life, becoming a necessity and a human right in a digitally connected world.

2020 has been a defining year for Etisalat with intensive transformation and agile delivery of services, ensuring a strong performance while making Etisalat well positioned for the future. An outstanding outcome considering the stagnant global economy and challenges caused by the pandemic across our footprint. We witnessed a step change in customers’ adoption of digital solutions and affirmed our technological leadership in this rapidly evolving ecosystem, ensuring value creation for our customers and shareholders.

Thanks to the sheer determination of our teams, Etisalat delivered on the ambitions and aspirations of its customers, continued to support the communities it serves and added value to the markets in which it operates. I would like to extend my appreciation to the UAE leadership for their enduring support and inspiration by driving us to always aim higher to widen our horizon. Moreover, I am thankful to our loyal customers and shareholders who motivate us to innovate and push boundaries, and to our employees who are the cornerstone of our success.”

• ESAAD cardholders to enjoy up to 70% discount at children’s entertainment centres and retail stores in the UAE
• Initiative is in line with Etisalat’s CSR pillar of community involvement and engagement

ESAAD, which celebrated its third anniversary on March 13, is a loyalty programme offering exclusive privileges, discounts and promotions to members of the Dubai Police and employees at UAE government entities who are cardholders. The programme aims to enhance the quality of life and engagement for employees of Dubai Police and their families, and other government departments.

Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is honoured to have the privilege of partnering with ESAAD in this great initiative to celebrate Emirati Children’s Day. This collaboration stems from Etisalat’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) pillar of community involvement and engagement. We would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate ESAAD on its third anniversary and look forward to more joint initiatives in the future.”

Mona Al Ameri, Head of the ESAAD committee, said: “This collaboration with Etisalat, a strategic partner of Dubai Police, reflects a mutual endeavour to serve all segments of society and aims to achieve the values of happiness in our society. We expect that this collaboration will lead to more joint initiatives at various national events and occasions. As 15th of March marks Emirati Children's Day - an occasion full of happiness and joy for children - we are proud to offer them with up to 70% discount at children’s entertainment centres and retail stores in the UAE in line with our third anniversary on 13th of March.”

For a complete list of ESAAD discounts and offers to mark Emirati Children’s Day, please visit esaad.dubaipolice.gov.ae.

Etisalat and stc Named MEA’s Strongest & Most Valuable Telecoms Brands

• stc is region’s most valuable telecoms brand, brand value up 14% to US$9.2 billion and achieves AAA- brand strength rating for first time
• Etisalat is MEA’s strongest telecoms brand, and 4th strongest globally. Etisalat Group's portfolio of brands is most valuable telecom brand portfolio in MEA, breaking $11bn this year.
• Verizon widens lead ahead of AT&T as world’s most valuable telecoms brand, brand value up 8% to US$68.9 billion
• Deutsche Telecom climbs up to 3rd in Brand Finance Telecoms 150 2021 ranking, following successful T-Mobile and Sprint merger in US
• Jio is shining star as sector’s strongest and fastest growing, Brand Strength Index (BSI) score 91.7 out of 100
• China Mobile retains position as Asia’s most valuable telecoms brand despite recording 23% brand value loss

View the full Brand Finance Telecoms 150 2021 report here

MEA brands continue to innovate

Etisalat and stc remain the frontrunners across the MEA region, claiming the title of the MEA’s strongest and most valuable telecoms brands, respectively.

stc is the region’s most valuable brand, its brand value up an impressive 14% to US$9.2 billion, simultaneously jumping 5 positions to 13th and becoming a AAA- brand. stc has recently doubled the capacity of its network, never compromising on customer service – something the brand prides itself on. stc is playing a crucial part in KSA’s Vision 2030 – a strategic framework to diversity the economy away from oil – through establishing a digital hub for the whole region, to accommodate future growth in the IT sector.

David Haigh, CEO, Brand Finance commented:
“stc’s brand has evolved and grown following its successful masterbrand refresh and extension into Kuwait and Bahrain at the beginning of last year. The company continues to execute its DARE strategy successfully and has strengthened its positioning as a company that enables digital life. Its commitment to digital transformation has been shown with stc pay, recognised as the first tech unicorn in Saudi Arabia.”

Brand Finance evaluates the relative strength of brands, based on factors such as marketing investment, customer perceptions, staff satisfaction, and corporate reputation. Alongside revenue forecasts, brand strength is a crucial driver of brand value. Etisalat has been crowned the MEA’s strongest telecoms brand, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 87.4 out of 100 and a corresponding AAA brand strength rating – the only brand in the region to achieve this rating.

Thanks to its strategy over the last few years and its recent achievement of becoming the fastest network on the planet, the brand was in a position to respond immediately to the 'new normal' of the pandemic, providing solutions and flexibility in a way that connected emotionally with consumers. Etisalat Group, the most valuable telecoms portfolio in the region which has recently broken the US$11 billion mark, is turning its sights on transforming into a truly global player.

David Haigh, CEO, Brand Finance commented:
“When COVID struck in 2020, Etisalat led from the front ensuring business continuity, robust e-governance, enablement of smart cities and remote learning, to help drive the digital future of the UAE. Staying relevant and enabling the nation with the fastest network on the planet, Etisalat has earned its place as the region’s Strongest Brand, ready deliver on its ethos of Together Matters as the UAE welcomes the world at Expo 2021.”

Out of the seven Middle Eastern brands Etisalat, Mobily, Ooredoo and stc have climbed the ranks this year. Mobily is the fastest growing telco brand in the region with a 17% brand value growth, jumping 10 places in the ranking to 75th position. Mobily (brand value US$1.3 billion), has strengthened its business and brand over the last three years by positioning the brand as the everyday hero. It has attained the highest Brand Strength Index score in its history at 75.4 out of 100 (brand strength rating AA+) and is in a strong position to capture the next wave of growth by seizing opportunities in the digital economy.

Telecoms brand guardians

Every year, Brand Finance releases the ranking of the world’s top brand guardians – the Brand Guardianship Index – which includes the top 100 CEOs globally. Brand Finance has researched and evaluated the brand guardianship score of over 200 CEOs this year.

stc’s Nasser Sulaiman Al Nasser topped the list of Brand Guardians from the telecoms sector this year. Al-Nasser announced his resignation in November of 2020, having presided over a successful rebrand and a period of growth for the stc brand.

The two most recently appointed Brand Guardians in the Telecom industry were Etisalat’s Hatem Dowidar, ranking 3rd and Telia’s Allison Kirkby, ranking 6th. Both had to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic in their first 12 months and have taken the challenge head on.

Verizon retains top spot globally and across region

For the second year in a row Verizon has claimed the title of the world’s most valuable telecoms brand following an 8% increase in brand value to US$68.9 billion. This brand value growth has not only propelled it back into the top 10 most valuable brands globally in the Brand Finance Global 500 2021 ranking, but has meant the brand has continued to widen the lead over second placed AT&T (brand value down 13% to US$51.4 billion). 15 further US brands feature in the Brand Finance Telecoms 150 2021 ranking, with a combined brand value of US$182.8 billion.
Two years since the beginning of Verizon’s business transformation program, Verizon 2.0 - focusing on the transformation of the network, the go-to-market, the brand, and the culture of the business – the brand continues to make leaps and bounds across the industry. The giant is widely recognised to have the best-in-class network and the widest coverage in the US, with the network’s usage surging during the pandemic, handling a staggering 800 million phone calls and 8 billion texts per day. Verizon is making significant strides in its 5G expansion programme, which now spans over 2700 cities and 230 million people.

Savio D’Souza, Valuation Director, Brand Finance commented:
“While 2020 was the year for Verizon to optimise its existing assets, we expect 2021 to be the year where Verizon strengthens its network leadership through acquisitions of a broader spectrum and a wider launch of its 5G and Onefiber. The brand is leveraging its superior brand strength to increase customer differentiation by migrating customers to unlimited plans and increasing stickiness with content and partnerships such as Disney+, Apple and Discovery plus.”

Deutsche Telecom reigns as most valuable

With a brand value of US$51.1 billion, Deutsche Telekom has retained its position as the most valuable telecoms brand in Europe, climbing one spot in the Brand Finance Telecoms 150 2021 ranking to 3rd place. Following an impressive 28% brand value growth, the brand is the fastest growing in the top 10 by far, outperforming the second fastest growing brand, Spectrum, which has increased by 11% to US$21.4 billion.

As the largest telecoms provider by revenue in Europe, Deutsche Telekom has reaped the rewards of its expansion into superfast internet connections and a boost in popularity for its MagentaENIS service package. Last year, the German telecoms brand also completed the T-Mobile and Sprint merger in the United States, which has significantly bolstered its total revenue, even despite the COVID-19 pandemic. With one successful merger under its belt, the telecoms giant is now turning its sights back to Europe to continue its expansion – an endeavour that will more than likely lead to further success in the coming year.

Jio is shining star as sector’s strongest and fastest growing

Taking the sector by storm as the world’s strongest telecoms brand is Indian telecoms giant, Jio, with a BSI score of 91.7 out of 100 and an elite AAA+ brand strength rating.

Despite only being founded in 2016, Jio has quickly become the largest mobile network operator in India and the third largest mobile network operator in the world, with almost 400 million subscribers. Renowned for its incredibly affordable plans, Jio took India by storm through offering 4G to millions of users for free, simultaneously transforming how Indians consume the internet – known as the ‘Jio effect’.

The dominance of the brand across the nation is evident from the results from Brand Finance’s original market research. Jio scores highest in all metrics – consideration conversion, reputation, recommendation, word of mouth, innovation, customer service and value for money - compared to its telecom competitors in India. The brand has no major weaknesses within the sector, and unlike other telecoms brands globally, Jio has shown that it has broken the mould, and enjoys genuine affection from consumers.

As well as being a standout brand for brand strength, Jio is the fastest-growing brand in the ranking in terms of brand value, bucking the negative trend across the industry, with a 50% increase to US$4.8 billion.

Fellow Indian brand Airtel has also celebrated a strong year, jumping 12 spots in the ranking to 23rd following 36% brand value increase to US$6.1 billion.

View the full Brand Finance Telecoms 150 2021 report here

• Etisalat Group Reports Consolidated Net Profit of AED 9.0 billion a 3.8% increase year over year

Etisalat Group announced today its consolidated financial statements for the 12 months ending December 31 2020.

2020 Financial Highlights and Key Developments

• Aggregate subscriber base reached 154 million, representing year over year increase of 3.6%.
• Consolidated Net Profit reached AED 9.0 billion a 3.8% increase year over year attributed to strong growth in the international operations that outweighed the decline in the UAE operations.
• Consolidated EBITDA amounted to AED 26.4 billion, representing a year over year increase of 0.3% and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51.1%.
• Proposed dividend payout of 40 fils per share for the second half of 2020, representing a total dividend payout of 80 fils for the full year.
• Board proposed cancellation of the share buyback program and instead proposed a one-time special dividend of AED 0.40 per share. As a result, the total ‎dividend per share for the full year 2020 is AED 1.20
• Credit Ratings by agencies S & P Global and Moodys affirmed Etisalat Group’s high credit rating at AA-/Aa3 with stable outlook.

Community Support during Covid19

Etisalat launched multiple initiatives to support the community during the pandemic including but not limited to:

• Etisalat provided Free Internet access to families without connectivity at home 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.
• 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.
• Introduced new innovative applications and services to ensure seamless business continuity during work from home period.
• 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
• Provided connectivity to quarantined and other critical areas in the health sector
• Conducted Stay-At-Home awareness campaigns across multiple channels.
• Etisalat rolled out special offers with the support of the Frontline Heroes Office to help frontline professionals nationwide stay connected to family and friends at home and abroad while protecting the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Industry Recognition

• Etisalat crowned as the ‘Strongest Brand’ in MEA region and ranked the most valuable telecom portfolio brand in MEA for 5th year in a row
• Etisalat recognised as the fastest mobile network in the world by Ookla
• Etisalat awarded ‘Best Regional Wholesale Carrier’ for the 12th year
• Etisalat recognised by Frost & Sullivan as ‘UAE Data Centre Services Industry Company of the year’

Key Developments

• Etisalat completed the acquisition of Help AG, a privately held regional company specialising in the delivery of cyber security solutions and services
• Digital Financial Services, a joint venture of Etisalat and Noor Bank, partnered with MoneyGram to offer international remittance services in the UAE
• Etisalat achieves the world’s fastest 5G download speed of 9.1 Gigabits per second
• Etisalat partnered with Ericsson to connect to its charging system and 5G Business Support Systems (BSS) supporting new use cases including IoT, network slicing, AR and VR
• 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 subscribers can now access 5G fixed networks for the first time from their homes in UAE
• 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 teams up with BMW Group Middle East to power connected drive services in 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
• Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) collaborated with Etisalat to deploy innovative technologies for an advanced telecom infrastructure, high speed internet and superior mobile connectivity
• Etisalat partnered with Microsoft to enhance its public cloud infused with automation and AI
• Etisalat joined Amazon Web Services (AWS) Direct Connect Service Delivery Programme to offer fast, private, and secure connectivity for accessing AWS cloud services
• Etisalat and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) partnered to deploy a cloud-based IoT Smart Building solution, providing FAB ‘anytime anywhere’ access and ease of operations across its entire portfolio
• Etisalat expands ‘SmartHub’ presence with a Tier 3 data centre facility at two new locations in UAE
• 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 partnered with Smartworld to bring ‘Shahada’, a tamper proof digital certificate platform for all educational institutions in the region.
• Etisalat loyalty programme ‘Smiles’ launched UAE’s first ever blockchain-powered Rewards Exchange
• 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 Vectramind, a global healthcare and communications technology firm to offer ‘Firstpass’ an innovative healthcare platform to its customers in the region.

Chairman’s Statement:

H.E. Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman of Etisalat Group, said: “As we begin our journey into a new digitally empowered future, 2020 was a true testimony to Etisalat Group’s resilience and agility.

“Despite the unprecedented global impact of the COVID 19 pandemic, Etisalat demonstrated robust financial performance, driven by our bold vision to constantly innovate while ensuring that communities we serve remain connected, informed and productive. Across our footprint, we stood for our communities and took immediate steps to protect our teams and customers, support critical verticals, and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of quality services. We engaged heavily with governments and authorities while supporting the community with innovative offerings and free initiatives that assisted students, organisations, and societies as a whole. During the year, revenue and net profit growth were witnessed in our international markets while the domestic market experienced a decline in both due to the pandemic and market maturity.

The telecom industry has proven to be the backbone of the new-norm and a tool of empowerment. We take pride in our response that stood out amongst global peers across our footprint. Etisalat demonstrated strong commitment, swift reactions, and readiness as a result of years of adept planning of business continuity and crisis management scenarios. We have also been in leading positions across several industry rankings. Years of investments in infrastructure and digital capabilities resulted in positioning Etisalat on global standings in ICT readiness and adoption, broadband subscriptions, fiber penetration and mobile coverage.

Etisalat Group is well positioned for the future and we are confident in our ability to maintain our exceptional financial performance. In addition to sustaining our total dividend of AED 0.80 per share, we are pleased to be proposing a special one-time dividend of AED 0.40, bringing the total dividends for the year to AED 1.20 per share representing a dividend payout ratio of 115% and a high dividend yield for year 2020. This is a testament to our commitment of enhancing shareholder value.

I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation to the UAE leadership, an inspiration and motivation behind every success in our journey. Thanks to our customers for allowing us to be part of their lives, our stakeholders for their continuous trust and Etisalat employees and management team for their efforts and unwavering commitment towards realising our vision of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies.”

GCEO’s Statement:

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO of Etisalat Group, said: “Our journey in 2020 was transformational with an unprecedented pandemic that reshaped humanity, created a new ‘irreversible’ normal, shattered the digital adoption divide, and accelerated the future. For Etisalat Group, it was a year of resilience, agility, social responsibility, and in contrast to many businesses, great results. A moment of truth that obliged us to reflect and transform at group level to affirm our position as a leading world-class telco.

It was indeed a challenging year, however across our operations we remained committed and took necessary steps to support our customers and the communities we serve. Our prime focus was to ensure business continuity and the sustainability of high quality services in a manner that was safe for our employees and customers. This was all possible due to the relentless effort towards realising our vision while investing for growth, sustaining a world-class telecom infrastructure, retaining differentiated assets, platforms, and capabilities integral to building a network for a better future across our operations. As a result we have achieved many historical milestones, from being recognised as the fastest mobile network in the world, to being crowned the strongest brand in Middle East and Africa and the most valuable telecom portfolio brand for a fifth year in a row.

In a challenging environment, we performed effectively and achieved strong financial and operational results with slightly lower revenue. Group consolidated revenue decreased by 0.9% while EBITDA rose by 0.3%, resulting in a healthy EBITDA margin of 51.1% The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on UAE’s performance that resulted in revenue and EBITDA decline. This was mostly compensated by growth in revenue and EBITDA of international operations. Consequently, consolidated group net profit grew by 3.8% reaching AED 9.0 billion.

Moving forward, I am confident that we will remain in a strong position compared to our global peers and other industries by maintaining our momentum and continuing our efforts to address several industry-wide challenges, focusing on operational areas of improvement and creating group synergies to capture further value.

We are looking beyond business as usual achievements and aiming to accelerate several key strategic priorities. We are certain that our “own transformation” is a necessity considering the enormous changes in industry ecosystem. In 2020 we have launched a Group-wide transformation program to address the challenges and seize the opportunities while shaping the future for Etisalat Group as a leading world-class telco.

The digital services and international portfolio remain the major drivers for future growth. There is considerable untapped potential and opportunities in the areas of cloud, IoT, and cyber security, which are expected to fuel future digital growth and rebalance telecom revenues. We will remain focused on improving operational excellence across our footprint, rationalise our portfolio and enrich it with assets that maximise the return on investment for our shareholders and added value for our customers. Moreover, 5G deployment will continue and unlock new business opportunities.

Etisalat is thankful to the visionary leaders of the UAE for their continuous support of the telecom sector and we owe our customers and shareholders immense appreciation for their trust and support. Thanks to our dedicated teams for going far and beyond in serving our customers, sustaining premium services in times of uncertainty and in times of prosperity.

Subscribers

In the UAE, the subscriber base reached to 12.2 million subscribers, while Etisalat Group aggregate subscribers reached 154 million subscribers representing a year on year increase of 3.6%.

Revenue and Net Profit

Twelve month consolidated revenues reached AED 51.7 billion, while consolidated net profit after Federal Royalty for the twelve month amounted to AED 9.0 billion an increase of 3.8% compared to last year.

EBITDA

Consolidated EBITDA amounted to AED 26.4 billion an increase of 0.3% compared to prior year, and resulting in EBITDA margin of 51.1%.

• Etisalat senior leaders participate in Expo Talks Travel & Connectivity Week

Technology elevates travel with connectivity enabling a seamless and immersive digital experience in the new norm facilitating virtual travel to bridge the gap between both physical and digital worlds, said Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group.

Eng. Dowidar was the keynote speaker at the ‘Expo Talks Travel & Connectivity Week’, a pre-Expo programme that explored connectivity in key sectors, including mobility, transport and logistics, governance, education and travel while championing digital connectivity as a human right for all.

He also stressed on the importance of virtual technologies and its implementation in physical events like the recently held GITEX Technology week in Dubai, where virtual visitors could witness and experience the entire show, presentations and showcases without travelling to the event.

“This was all made possible due to the advanced infrastructure in the country leading in every aspect of the network from the highest fiber penetration to the home globally to being the first operator to launch 3G, 4G and 5G networks in the region. The country is also home to the fastest mobile network in the world a result of years of building one of the most advanced network in the region and globally.”

The other senior leaders that headlined panel discussions at the event were Dr Ahmed Bin Ali, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Etisalat Group and Francisco Salcedo, Senior Vice President, Etisalat Digital.

Dr Bin Ali participated in a session titled ‘Leave no one behind’ that focused on bridging the digital divide for learning with global and national level participants from UAE Prime Minister’s Office, Dubai Cares, UNICEF and UNESCO. The session focused on the role of advanced connectivity for education during the pandemic. Through the discussion, they all explored how to make the global education system stronger and more resilient to future disruptions through digital transformation.

Salcedo joined the ‘Thrive together series’, a session that had opening remarks from H.E. Kersti Kaljulaid, President of Estonia and participants from organisations such as Smart Africa, UAE TRA, Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expo 2020. The session focused on the need to foster a more resilient and robust global economy, and enable economic growth and partnerships. The pandemic has resulted in the shutdown of our physical world, bringing to the forefront the importance of the contactless provision of services and goods, requiring not only technology, but a digital friendly business and regulatory environment and a government prepared to deliver services to its citizens.

The ‘Expo Talks Travel & Connectivity Week’ are part of the pre-events planned providing a glimpse of how Expo will bring to life the theme of travel and connectivity across the six months that it will open to the world, the talks convened experts from around the world, alongside Expo 2020’s international participants and official partners.

Etisalat is the official telecom and digital services partner for Expo 2020 aiming to provide an experience of a lifetime with the fastest, smartest and most connected sites on earth. Through Etisalat’s partnership, Expo 2020 Dubai became the first major 5G commercial customer in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. This will be the first world expo to witness the 5G revolution.

• Order food with Smiles, earn and redeem points on all food deliveries plus enjoy amazing discounts

Etisalat today announced the launch of Smiles’ food order and delivery service in the UAE as part of its continuous efforts to constantly innovate and enhance customer experience.

More than 2,500 restaurants are currently delivering via the Smiles app. With the new delivery feature, customers can now order food from restaurants around them and also earn and redeem Smiles points on their food deliveries as well as enjoy unique discount deals on food deliveries exclusive to Smiles. Customers ordering via the app can earn one Smiles point for every AED1 on card payments. This development not only adds to the various avenues of engagement with the Smiles app, but also enhances the possibility of earning and redeeming Smiles points for a service that is frequently used on a recurring basis.

Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, Etisalat, said: “Smiles is well positioned to expand its presence in the food delivery market and create additional value to its customers and partners. Today dining is the most popular category on the Smiles platform, with our customers enjoying special offers with Smiles while dining out. We listened to the voice of our customers and have now extended the convenience of food ordering via Smiles from the comfort of their own homes.”

Smiles, one of the largest lifestyle engagement programmes in the UAE, has more than 2.3 million registered members and is open to all citizens, residents and visitors of the UAE. 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.

A surprise reunion of five UAE residents with their loved ones tugged at heartstrings and brought happy tears, courtesy of Etisalat.

At the heart of Etisalat’s brand act ‘Bringing your loved ones to you’ is the joy and family togetherness amidst these unprecedented times. Inspired by its core belief ‘Together Matters’, Etisalat made their dreams come true after years of separation further exacerbated by the pandemic.

It all began with a competition on Facebook back in November 2020, when Etisalat asked people whom they miss the most and tag them for a chance to win the latest 5G smartphone for a loved one.

Five lucky winners were invited to the studio where they would video call their loved ones. Little did they know Etisalat took it a step further by flying their loved ones to the UAE two days before the shoot.

Etisalat not only helped connect them via a video call but also hatched a surprise reunion at the studio, a week-long hotel stay, and a fun and thrill-filled day out at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Covid-19 precautions and safety standards were observed the entire time.

At a time when being reunited with loved ones is needed the most, Etisalat showed how much ‘together really matters’.

Marie Cristina Domingo, 46, a Filipina office administrator in Dubai, and her husband Anthony tagged their 21-year-old daughter Maria Erin, a university student in Laguna whom they had not seen for more than two years. They had no plans of flying home anytime soon due to the COVID-19 situation but were looking forward to spending their first holiday with their granddaughter Amari.

“We are very happy with Etisalat and would like to congratulate all the winners,” said Maria Cristina. “This wouldn’t have been possible without Etisalat of course,” Anthony chimed in.

Krishna Shrestha, 35, a sales attendant at a petrol station in Ajman, joined Etisalat’s competition in the hope of winning a smartphone for his wife and making their wedding anniversary extra special. Unknown to him, Rina and her brother Aakash arrived at Dubai airport from Nepal two days prior to the surprise reunion. Krishna was in complete disbelief when he saw his wife Rina emerge from a sliding panel following a short video call in the studio. “I’ve not seen her for almost one and a half years,” he said. “I’m so happy.”

Henna Bhojwani, 47, a homemaker in Dubai, tagged her brother Rajesh Lalwani, a 43-year-old overseas recruitment consultant in India when she entered the competition. “It’s all because of you that I won this prize,” said Rajesh, who flew in from Delhi along with his wife Sneha.

“Oh my God!” Henna shrieked in surprise as the siblings embraced with hugs and tears after more than a year and a half apart. “For me, everything has been so overwhelming, so emotional, I just don’t know how to thank Etisalat,” she said.

Hala Hassan, a 24-year-old homemaker in Abu Dhabi, nominated her sister Reham to win the smartphone. To her surprise, Etisalat had flown in Reham, a 31-year-old teacher in Egypt, along with their 65-year-old mother Sameeha Salem Ali. “I hadn’t seen my mother and sister for over a year,” Hala said. It was an intensely emotional and heartwarming family reunion after such a long time of them being apart, especially since Reham got married during that time and Hala couldn’t attend her wedding in these difficult times.

Carmela dela Cruz, a 27-year-old nanny in Sharjah, cannot wait to be reunited with her family in the Philippines. She had won a smartphone for her 54-year-old father Crisanto who was unable to fly to Dubai. Because ‘Together Matters’, Etisalat took it up a notch by surprising Carmela with an airline ticket so she could hand over the phone to her father in May.

“Etisalat, thank you so much for everything,” Carmela said, trying to smile through her tears after a video call with her parents and cousin. “This is so big. My family will be happy because I’m going home. I can’t imagine this is happening to me now. I’m so excited because I had not seen my family for almost two years.”

• Multi-layered approach of cyber defence is in place to protect Dubai government entities
• Partnership proactively safeguards ongoing citywide smart transformation initiatives

Etisalat has partnered with Smart Dubai to provide a comprehensive suite of multi-layered cyber security services and skilled expertise that will further strengthen Dubai government entities’ resilience to cyber attacks. The services will be offered by Help AG, the cyber security arm of Etisalat Digital.

Smart Dubai is the government department tasked with spearheading Dubai’s digital transformation and leading the efforts to build a world-leading smart city in the emirate, with cybersecurity being a key part of this mandate. A preferred partner of major enterprises and government entities, Help AG offers strategic consultancy, analysis, system integration, project implementation, governance and operations of tailored security solutions and services.

Etisalat will leverage the extensive experience and real-time visibility into the regional threat landscape to deliver robust round-the-clock protection for Smart Dubai’s critical digital assets. A unique advantage for Smart Dubai, considering the nature of its mandate, is that Etisalat’s services are in full compliance with the UAE government’s regulatory frameworks.

As Dubai government agencies communicate through the Government Information Network, managed by Smart Dubai, this partnership will serve to proactively safeguard ongoing citywide smart transformation initiatives.

A multi-layered approach of cyber defence is in place to provide protection, support the UAE Vision 2021 and its digital transformation objectives, and help reinforce the UAE’s National Cyber Security Strategy and the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy.

Commenting on the partnership, Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President/Government Sales at Etisalat said: “Etisalat is proud to work with one of the most innovative government entities in the UAE and the world. Smart Dubai is a partner with a great set of expectations and requirements, which drives us to optimise our service offerings to the benefit of the greater customer community.

"We look forward to effectively empowering Smart Dubai’s cyber security infrastructure and delivering tangible value to all Dubai government entities, enabling smarter and more secure transformation initiatives that will help drive the digital economy.”

His Excellency Wesam Lootah, CEO of the Smart Dubai Government Establishment (Smart Dubai’s technology arm), said: “Smart Dubai’s mission consists of exploring advanced technologies and channelling them into services that make life easier and happier for Dubai’s citizens, residents, and visitors. It is a significant undertaking that calls on various government entities to work together and coordinate, and with that in mind, Smart Dubai launched the Government Information Network and a host of digital infrastructure projects to connect these entities and allow them to transfer and exchange data.”

“This makes matters of cyber security a top priority for us and for our partners and we are constantly working to further enhance the safety and security of our network. This partnership we are signing with Help AG, Etisalat Digital’s cyber security arm, is a significant step forward in that direction, allowing us to benefit from the company’s extensive expertise in the field,” H.E. Lootah added.

Smart Dubai is the government office in charge of facilitating Dubai’s citywide smart transformation to empower, deliver and promote an efficient, seamless, safe and impactful city experience for residents and visitors. The office has been innovative and pioneering in acting as a trusted advisor, as well as creating information security and cyber resilience standards for government and semi-government entities. The robust set of governance requirements in place have set a benchmark for the entire region.

Iconic ‘golf balls’ or the spherical structures atop Etisalat’s office buildings across the UAE proudly lit up in red in commemoration of the arrival UAE’s Hope Probe to Mars.

Etisalat is supporting the nationwide “Arabs to Mars” campaign, with an aim to raise awareness on a historic UAE and Arab achievement through its official social media channels, eLife and SMS. Etisalat will change its network name in honour of the Arab world’s major breakthrough in space exploration.

The Hope Probe – the first-ever Arab interplanetary mission – is expected to enter the orbit of Mars on 9th February, making the UAE the fifth nation ever to reach the red planet and in time for the country’s golden jubilee celebration. It carries the aspiration of millions of people across 56 Arab and Islamic countries for the UAE mission’s role in establishing an Arab presence on the global space map.

Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications Etisalat, said: “Etisalat is honoured to be part of the nationwide ‘Arabs to Mars’ campaign by lighting up in red the iconic spherical structures atop our buildings across the UAE, along with other initiatives, to mark such a historic moment for the UAE and the entire Arab world. The Probe’s arrival to Mars is the dream of the late UAE founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and would not have been possible without the guidance and vision of the UAE’s leadership and support for our young talented Emiratis.”

Upon arriving in Mars after travelling 493 million km in a seven-month journey since its launch on July 20, 2020 from Tanegashima Island in Japan, the probe will provide the first-ever complete picture of the Martian atmosphere. The unmanned spacecraft will explore the planet’s climactic dynamics in daily and seasonal timescales for a full Martian year (687 earth days) – the first by a mission.

Etisalat today announced its support for the International Human Fraternity Virtual Summit as its official telecom partner.

The summit, held on 4th February, was organised by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, in cooperation with the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity. It is under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.

The insightful sessions and interactive webinars shed light on current issues that need to be addressed with a special focus on ongoing issues around the world, including COVID 19 and its shortcomings upon the communities, as well as the persisting issues of racism, gender equality, policies, intolerance, persecution, and other issues.

In celebration of UN's International Day of Human Fraternity, Etisalat changed the network name to ‘Fraternity Etisalat’, extensively promoted the summit on its official social media channels and on radio, and launched an SMS campaign.

Etisalat’s bundle of initiatives and services for consumers and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic had a positive impact on all segments of society. It enabled 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. Etisalat supported business continuity by providing the necessary apps in a work-from-home environment and providing entertainment to families at home. Etisalat is also actively involved in local and international humanitarian and charitable initiatives.

Dr Ahmed bin Ali, Group Senior Vice President, Etisalat, said: “We are delighted to be the official telecom partner of the International Human Fraternity Virtual Summit, which is in line with Etisalat’s overall strategy of ‘Driving the Digital Future to Empower Societies’. This event, under the theme ‘Human Fraternity for Working Together to Achieve a Better Future, is closely aligned with our corporate social responsibility strategy to support the communities we serve. We at Etisalat join the UAE in its efforts to promote peace and spread the principles of fraternity and peaceful coexistence worldwide.”

Dawood Al Shezawi, President of the Organising Committee of the International Human Fraternity Summit, said: “It is our pride to have Etisalat as our Official Telecom Partner. I believe that our strong collaboration with one of the world's leading telecom groups is greatly instrumental in realising our commitment to provide world-class events for our global audiences. They have always given us the full support and trust we need to be able to competently fulfill the vital role we play in the events industry. As we bring events that aim to generate opportunities for different sectors, Etisalat has allowed us to maximise our utmost potential and achieve greater flexibility and resilience during these challenging times.”

Etisalat today announced its sponsorship of the third edition of UAE Tour 2021, which demonstrates the UAE’s capabilities in international sport and highlights its role in bringing people together in the country.

Etisalat is the official sponsor of the race’s Green Jersey (general individual classification by points), to be worn daily starting from Stage 2, by the fastest sprinter who has obtained the best positions in each stage and intermediate sprints.

As one of the leading telecom groups in emerging markets and ranked the most valuable telecom brand as well as one of the world’s strongest brands, Etisalat’s strategic sponsorship is in line with its endeavor to be at the forefront of sporting events. Etisalat’s support for one most prestigious competitions in the global sporting calendar also reinforces its deep commitment to initiatives that positively enhance the UAE’s global reputation.

The one and only World Tour race in the Middle East will be held from 21-27 February 2021. This year’s edition will see the riders start and finish in Abu Dhabi and compete over seven diverse stages that showcase the unique landscapes of the UAE. The organising committee will follow all necessary Covid-19 precautions to safeguard the safety of the riders, teams and staff. The seven-day race came into existence when the Dubai Tour and Abu Dhabi Tour merged in 2018.

• Makes it to the global top 25 strongest brands
• Ranks among the global top 5 strongest telecom brands
• Portfolio of brands now touching AED 40 bn
• Most valuable telecom portfolio brand in MEA for 5th year in a row
• Only brand in MEA to retain AAA brand rating

Etisalat has made history by emerging as the strongest brand across all categories in Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. This feat puts Etisalat among the top 25 brands globally in the strongest brands index by Brand Finance, the world’s leading independent brand valuation and strategy consultancy.

This global accomplishment was made possible due to Etisalat’s brand strength and performance with continuous efforts and investments in accelerating its value by engaging with consumers across markets with launching many successful innovative global branding initiatives.

With this ranking from Brand Finance, Etisalat is now among the world’s strongest brands including Ferrari, Coca Cola, Apple, among others making it to the global top 25 strongest brands in the world. Continuing its growth streak, Etisalat is turning its sights on transforming into a truly global player and climbed 17 spots in the global 500 brand value ranking this year from 225th to 208th . Another noteworthy achievement this year is being ranked among the top five strongest telecom brands across global markets and the strongest telecom brand in MEA region.

Etisalat has also retained its title as the most valuable telecom portfolio of brands for the fifth year in a row with an impressive portfolio of brands touching more than AED 40 bn including Etisalat Misr, Mobily, Ufone, Maroc Telecom, PTCL and is also the only telecom brand to retain AAA brand rating.

David Haigh, CEO, Brand Finance said: “When COVID struck in 2020, Etisalat led from the front ensuring business continuity, digital and innovative solutions, enablement of smart cities and remote learning to help drive the digital future of the UAE. Staying relevant and enabling the nation with the fastest network on the planet, Etisalat has earned its place as the region’s ‘Strongest Brand’, ready deliver on its ethos of ‘Together Matters’ as the UAE welcomes the world at Expo 2021.”

Eng. Hatem Dowidar, CEO, Etisalat Group said: “This is a historic achievement for Etisalat to be recognised on such a global platform among the best in the world and the region. Our efforts to bring innovation and digital transformation for all our customers have also led to Etisalat being ranked as the strongest brand on a global scale.”

“The previous year has demonstrated our strength and commitment in delivering uninterrupted high quality services to all our customers adding value to our brand while focusing on our vision to ‘Drive the digital future to empower societies’ realising our digital ambitions to reality,” Dowidar added.

“Recognised as the strongest brand in Middle East and Africa region is another testament to our efforts in sustaining a healthy portfolio that maximises synergies, creating brand loyalty and enhancing customer experience. Thanks to the UAE leadership’s support, vision and encouragement that has helped Etisalat achieve this significant milestone despite the headwinds posed by today’s extraordinary times realising our digital goals and surpassing many of the top global and regional brands.”

Operating in 16 countries with 149 million subscribers across Asia, Middle East and Africa, Etisalat’s success can also be attributed to its continued efforts to provide the best solutions and services in the various markets in which it operates, its support for community initiatives and events, and its adoption of digital transformation strategies in its various operations.

Etisalat has led the telecom sector and the region with the deployment of the 5G network setting a major benchmark in the industry. Most recently Etisalat made a huge leap forward with the landmark announcement of achieving the world’s fastest 5G download speed of 9.1 gigabits per second.

Etisalat’s pioneering 5G efforts in the region and delivering one of the fastest, smartest and best-connected places on earth for the upcoming 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 millions of visitors.

The success and growth of Etisalat’s brand value is 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 brand 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.

Etisalat today rolled out its vaccination programme for eligible employees across the UAE in co-ordination with the Ministry of Health.

The inoculation drive began today at Etisalat’s Abu Dhabi headquarters Building A where a station was set up for employees to conveniently get the vaccine free of charge. The initiative is in line with UAE's plan to vaccinate more than 50 per cent of the country's population by the end of March.

Etisalat is making the Sinopharm vaccine accessible to its employees at selected buildings across the UAE. While vaccination is optional, Etisalat is encouraging its employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine jab to protect themselves and their families. So far, more than 2,500 employees have signed up for the first dose of the vaccine.

Since the start of the pandemic, Etisalat has been implementing multiple layers of safety measures to ensure the health and safety of customers and its employees. As a company, Etisalat’s priority is to work closely with all relevant stakeholders responsibly in keeping its customers, employees and communities safe. Etisalat puts business continuity plans in place to respond to disruptive incidents such as COVID-19, while protecting the health of its employees, ensuring connectivity and minimising the impact of the delivery and quality of services.

• Available on Etisalat’s Business Online portal, offers real-time visibility and control
• Company admins can manage mobile accounts, usage consumption, set alert notifications online

Etisalat today announced the launch of the region’s first-of-its-kind Mobile Service Centre, offering real-time visibility and control over business customers’ mobile usage all conveniently accessible online.

This feature, available on Etisalat’s Business Online Business Online Portal, allows customers to manage their mobile accounts, check their subscription details and usage consumption, as well as receive real time alerts on high allowance utilisation and provide service subscription recommendations in order for the company admin to take action.

They can also create custom rules to trigger automated actions or notifications to avoid unexpected out of bundle usage charges and ensure uninterrupted connectivity.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, Small and Medium Business, Etisalat, said: “We are pleased to introduce the region’s first-of-its-kind Mobile Service Centre, which provides business customers the flexibility to manage their accounts at their convenience online and the transparency to view all their subscribed services and usage details. Today’s launch is part of Etisalat’s continuous efforts to empower businesses with scalable and tailored advanced solutions to grow their business and increase revenue while managing their costs.”

Company admins can customise their mobile setting per employee needs and take real time action based on the customised usage rules they have set.

Etisalat today announced that it is building the region’s first open and autonomous and secured network. Cisco AI/ML automation is used to simplify Etisalat Emirates Internet Exchange (EMIX) operations with a set of innovative use cases aimed at providing an intent-based and closed-loop automation solutions to EMIX network.

As Etisalat advances in the automation journey, the network intelligence and refined analytics will improve operational decision making and reduce time-to-outcomes, which is critical in preparing the network for future 5G capacity demands and service agility to deliver always-on connectivity to EMIX customers and partners.

The new automation framework is built on the proven foundation of open APIs in Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO), Cisco’s WAN Automation Engine (WAE), and Cisco AI/ML Platform to incorporate big data consolidation, machine learning, event correlation, and closed-loop change automation.

With the support of intelligent ‘capacity planning’ application, Etisalat will manage to quickly scale the infrastructure which will translate into being able to maintain service levels when traffic levels are in flux. While predicting network capacity demands based on the recent usage patterns and trends, which can be very unpredictable during peak utilisation times, and maintaining a high level of the service quality by automatically routing the critical applications using AI to predict the best network paths for high applications quality and customer experience.

“Advanced automation is at the heart of Etisalat’s strategy in every corner in the network. It is critical to 5G success for improving operational efficiency and driving new services,” said Haitham Abdulrazzak, Chief Technology Officer, Etisalat. “We are focusing on service performance metrics and the real time experience of our customers with immediate and long-term benefits to transform our infrastructure and deliver the best in class customer experience.”

“We opted for Cisco solution due to the outcome driven approach in automation that will have a major impact on network capacity management,” said Saeed Al Zarouni, Senior Vice President - Mobile Network, Etisalat.

“The next-generation networks that we're driving supports our customers stay ahead of the curve and create new, ground-breaking experiences for their customers and end users for decades to come,” said Adam MacHale, VP of Service Providers in EMEAR region, Cisco. “We worked closely with Etisalat to realise their vision for open, autonomous and secure EMIX network that can proactively handle upcoming demands, improve operational decision making and reduce time-to-outcomes, to deliver the best in class customer experience.”

• Stay connected to Israel, the Middle East and North America with i24NEWS

Etisalat today announced the launch of the Israel-based network i24NEWS on eLife and Switch TV.

eLife customers can now enjoy watching i24NEWS (English) on channel 537 and i24NEWS (Arabic) on channel 520 for free. Switch TV users can watch TV i24NEWS (English) on channel 264 and i24NEWS (Arabic) on channel 265 at no extra cost.

The partnership between Etisalat and i24NEWS comes after the UAE signed a peace agreement to normalise ties with Israel in September.

Launched in 2013, i24NEWS is an international news network based in Israel that broadcasts in Arabic, English and French from studios in Jaffa Port, the US and Europe. In addition to up-to-the-minute news, the channel also features a wide variety of current affairs shows and reports on such subjects as economy, defense, sport, hi-tech, and culture.

i24NEWS is part of the Altice Group, owned by businessman Patrick Drahi and since its inception has been led by CEO Frank Melloul. In 2017, i24NEWS expanded into the North American market and opened bureaus in the United States. Today, the channel has studios in Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Paris, New York, Washington and Los Angeles and deploys correspondents all over the world.

Etisalat today announced its partnership with Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company, to provide Managed Wi-Fi and networking solutions to its customers in the UAE embedded with advanced analytics across the retail, healthcare, and hospitality verticals.

The strategic partnership with Aruba involves the state-of-the-art Aruba Central Platform hosted at Etisalat’s data centre. The locally hosted platform ensures data privacy and residency, guaranteeing a more secure and resilient user experience. The platform also provides a network management dashboard, enhanced Wi-Fi analytics and monetisation tools powered by Faraday Networks. Etisalat has also onboarded CADD Emirates as the system integrator and support services provider.

Etisalat’s customers will benefit from high speed network access, high-density wireless coverage, in-built IoT support, and comprehensive security among others, through the latest generation of access points, switches, user experience sensors, and other solutions. Businesses can take advantage of the bespoke solution architecture designed to meet their specific requirements.

Salvador Anglada, Group Chief Business Officer, Etisalat said: “We are pleased to offer Aruba’s solutions to our customers as it complements Etisalat’s agile and cloud-native Wi-Fi solution and LAN network designed to accommodate high speed, low latency, and comprehensive security. Through this collaboration, we look forward to empowering our clients with the latest digital technologies and smart solutions aimed at increasing operational efficiency and enhancing user experience.”

Ahmad AlKhalafi, MD, HPE UAE, said: “We are pleased to support Etisalat accelerating the launch of MSP services across the UAE leveraging our innovative solutions. Together we can offer a curated suite of solutions specifically designed to help enterprises in the UAE migrate to a more agile, cost-effective cloud-based IT models.”