e& completes acquisition of controlling stake in PPF Telecom and 100% acquisition of GlassHouse, expanding its footprint to 38 countries

e& today announced its Q3 2024 consolidated financial results, reporting consolidated revenue of AED 14.4 billion, growing 10 per cent year-over-year in constant currency, while consolidated revenues for the first nine months of year 2024 recorded AED 42.7 billion, growing 9 per cent YoY, reflecting continued growth across most verticals.

e& completed an important milestone by closing the transaction of PPF Telecom that will enhance the group portfolio diversification while it continues to grow its digital services across enterprise solutions, fintech, and media and entertainment sectors. This diversification will allow it to pursue its strategic ambition of transitioning to a global technology player.

e&’s total subscriber base witnessed a YoY increase of 6 per cent, reaching 177.3 million. The total number of e& UAE subscribers reached 14.7 million, representing a YoY growth of 5 per cent.

Financial Highlights

Hatem Dowidar, Group Chief Executive Officer, e&, said: “e& continued its strong momentum in the first nine months, with consolidated revenue growing 9 per cent in constant currency to AED 42.7 billion.

We scaled up e&’s telecom footprint to 20 countries, bringing our overall reach to 38 markets. This growth, coupled with our solid performance in both local and international markets, drove our consolidated net profit to reach AED 8.5 billion growing 10 per cent during the first nine months. Furthermore, consolidated EBITDA reached AED 19.4 billion, resulting in EBITDA margin of 45 per cent, while our telecom EBITDA margin remained resilient at 49%”.

“Now that we have completed the acquisition of a controlling stake in PPF Telecom Group, we look forward to the opportunities that will arise as we expand our global horizon, impacting the lives of over 1 billion people across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and now Central and Eastern Europe—marking our first operational foothold in Europe. By combining our expertise with PPF Telecom's strong local presence, we're well-positioned to drive digital transformation and empower societies across this region,” added Dowidar.

He concluded, “e& remains dedicated to championing the UAE’s leadership vision as the country continues to advance its digital agenda as a role model of digitalisation. Our investment in cutting-edge infrastructure and strategic partnerships will ensure that we continue to deliver futuristic solutions and digital services that drive sustainable progress and transformation.”

Key Operational Highlights

e&

e& successfully completed its landmark partnership with PPF Group, acquiring a controlling stake (50 per cent plus one economic share) in the service and infrastructure companies of PPF Telecom Group (“PPF Telecom”) across Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Slovakia. This acquisition marks a significant step in e&'s ongoing global expansion ambitions, diversifying and growing its geographical presence to 38 countries. This milestone is poised to transform the telecom landscape in the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region and deliver enhanced value to over 10 million customers across the four markets.

e& signed a US$ 1 billion-plus (AED 3.7 billion) agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) over the next six years to accelerate the impact of cloud-driven innovation and digital transformation across the Middle East region. The alliance will focus on delivering core cloud services like storage, computing, networking, cybersecurity, and AI and machine learning (ML). Part of this investment will be dedicated to training and certifying up to 60,000 individuals—including 6,000 UAE nationals—in cloud technologies and AI.

e& and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have partnered to promote digital inclusion and sustainable development in the Arab States region. The collaboration will focus on bridging digital divides, supporting MSMEs, using AI for climate resilience, and fostering public-private partnerships for digital cooperation.

e& has become one of the first telecom operators to the GSMA’s Responsible AI (RAI) Maturity Roadmap. The roadmap enables telcos to assess where they currently stand in terms of their existing maturity in using AI responsibly against where they want to go. It then provides clear guidance and measurement tools to help fulfil those ambitions while ensuring industry-wide best practice in the responsible use of the technology.

A new year-long partnership between e& and Nokia’s research arm, Nokia Bell Labs, will see both parties collaborating on research and development to create AI-based use cases for strategic industrial sectors. The goal is to develop responsible AI solutions for sustainable enterprise and industrial automation applications and accelerate innovation concepts toward real world deployments.

e& UAE

The opening of the second AI-powered autonomous store, EASE (e& Autonomous Store Experience), at Dubai Mall set  new standards in customer experience. The store powered by state-of-the-art AI technology, offers a unique and seamless shopping experience with more advanced features, such as FastPass and visitor line activation via biometrics or the e& UAE app.

e& UAE launched the Fibre-To-The-Room (FTTR) service, which enhances the performance of Wi-Fi networks. This innovative service is ideal for smart homes, gamers, and other tech-dependent users who require high-speed internet connections with minimal latency to ensure optimal performance.

The introduction of the self-activated instant eSIM with 10GB of complimentary data for visitors gave them a Free Visitor Line eSIM immediately upon passing through immigration by scanning a QR code and completing a quick facial recognition step, thereby eliminating queues and streamlining the process.

e& UAE achieved Platinum status in TM Forum’s Open API certification, making it the first telecommunications operator in the MENA region to receive this level of accreditation for 20 unique APIs.

Building on Smiles' position as the UAE's leading everyday rewards SuperApp, a new subscription model was introduced. Called "Smiles Unlimited," it is the only super subscription that unifies all the benefits of unlimited free food and grocery delivery, service fee waiver for home services, and unlimited Buy-One-Get-One on thousands of brands into one subscription package.

e& UAE unveiled 'Care Plus,' a support service designed specifically for business customers, a pioneering offering that empowers businesses to tailor their support levels precisely to their unique requirements and critical priorities.

e& enterprise

e& enterprise successfully completed its 100 per cent acquisition of GlassHouse, a leading Türkiye-based provider of managed cloud, business continuity and SAP Infrastructure services. The acquisition strengthens e& enterprise’s capabilities in private cloud and managed services, bolstering its overall value proposition with the addition of SAP capabilities and vertical expertise within the banking and financial services sector. It also marks a significant milestone in e& enterprise’s international growth strategy, following successful market entries into Saudi Arabia in 2019, Egypt in 2023, and now Türkiye, Qatar and South Africa.

e& enterprise launched its Utility Co-Pilot, an innovative utility virtual assistant, available in the Microsoft Marketplace. This cutting-edge solution leverages Generative AI (GenAI) and advanced data management techniques to revolutionise utility management, offering unprecedented efficiency, transparency, and customer satisfaction.

e& enterprise’s “end to end (E2E)” digital transformation team successfully completed Emirates Transport's consulting engagement, helping define their digital transformation roadmap and positioning it as a preferred tech partner for its implementation. This involved providing consulting services to define technical requirements through its “3+1” transition model, bridging the gap between digital strategy and execution.

Help AG, the cybersecurity arm of e& enterprise, has achieved significant recognition by winning the ‘Best Managed Security Provider Award’ at the Future Security Awards 2024, solidifying its position as a leader in the cybersecurity space. Additionally, Help AG has received Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) authorisation for Zscaler, further enhancing its ability to deliver cutting-edge security solutions to clients and ensuring they remain protected in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Beehive has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing AED 3 billion in total SME funding across the GCC. This achievement highlights the company's success in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in the region. Additionally, Beehive's partnership with ADCB as its first key account banking partner further solidifies its position as a trusted partner in the financial services industry.

e& life

e& life delivered robust growth, driving the group’s expansion across all consumer digital verticals. e& money achieved substantial progress, tripling its Total Gross Transaction Volume (GTV) and increasing remittance GTV by 2.4x year-over-year. The platform has issued 703,000 cards to date and attracted 1.29 million registered users, further strengthening its position in the digital financial services market and aligning with e&'s strategic vision for fintech.

Careem demonstrated exceptional growth in Q3 2024, with GTV surging 177 per cent year-over-year and GTV per user rising by 122 per cent, underscoring a strong and engaged user base. Additionally, Careem Plus, its monthly subscription programme’s monthly active users now surpassed 50 per cent of the total active user base, reflecting all-time high user engagement and platform traction.

STARZ ON has quickly gained momentum in the GCC streaming market. Since its launch in January 2024, it has amassed over 4.1 million installs, becoming the most downloaded SVOD/AVOD app in the region. With over 1,000 hours of new content and an increase of 103,000 monthly active users compared to Q2 2024, STARZ ON has solidified its position as a leading OTT platform with 1.44 million active users. Through its partnership with evision, the group acquired premium new content, including The History Channel, History 2, and Crime+Investigation, and broadcasted the Cricket World Cup (ICC) exclusively across in MENA.

e& international

In Pakistan, Upaisa, the digital financial services platform of Ubank and Ufone, launched a new debit card in conjunction with Mastercard. The innovative offering is a step forward in advancing Pakistan’s digital economy, offering consumers a secure, convenient, and seamless way to conduct digital transactions both locally and globally.

PTCL announced the launch of Pakistan’s first-ever AI-enabled Customer Services platform, developed in collaboration with STech.ai, which sets a new benchmark in digital innovation and customer experience excellence. In addition, PTCL Flash Fibre (FTTH) crossed the milestone of 600,000 subscribers in September.

Transforming Egypt’s Mediterranean coast, e& Egypt has signed a landmark agreement with Modon Holding to spearhead the development of cutting-edge smart city infrastructure for the Ras El Hekma project. e& Egypt has also been awarded the “Best Workplace Environment in Diversity and Inclusion” by Global Business Outlook.

e& capital

e& capital and AT&T Ventures announced a strategic investment in Derq, the leading provider of real-time AI-powered intelligent transportation system (ITS) solutions. The investments will be used to expand Derq’s activities in the US, GCC, and beyond, and accelerate the company’s investments in product development and growing its intellectual property (IP) portfolio.

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About e&

e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. With the group's financial performance in 2023 showing a consolidated net revenue of AED 53.8 billion and a net profit of AED 10.3 billion, e& continues to maintain its position as a financial powerhouse, reflected by its strong credit rating and solid balance sheet.

Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group. Its footprint now spans 38 countries, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services ranging from advanced connectivity, entertainment, streaming and financial services to AI-powered solutions, cloud computing, ICT, cybersecurity and IoT platforms.

The Group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise and e& capital, each catering to distinct customer and market needs. These pillars empower e& to lead in various sectors, from telecom and digital lifestyle to enterprise services and venture investments. The ongoing strategic investments in AI, IoT, 5G and cloud services reinforce its leadership in the global technology landscape, driving the future of smart connectivity and innovation.

Driven by innovation, sustainability and a commitment to digital empowerment, e& is set on creating a smarter, more connected future for individuals, businesses and communities.

To learn more about e&, visit eand.com. 

Derq, the leading provider of real-time AI-powered intelligent transportation system (ITS) solutions, today announced strategic investments from e& capital; the venture capital arm of e&, a global technology group headquartered in the UAE; and AT&T Ventures, the venture capital arm of AT&T, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world.

The investments from e& capital and AT&T Ventures will be used to expand Derq’s activities in the US, GCC, and beyond, and accelerate the company’s investments in product development and growing its intellectual property (IP) portfolio.

“Derq is a global innovator, and our investment is a testament to our commitment to supporting visionary businesses that move the world forward. By backing Derq, we are not only investing in

a company at the forefront of intelligent transportation technology but also contributing to the development of innovative solutions that will benefit communities globally,” said Kushal Shah, Managing Director of e& capital. “We believe in Derq’s vision of creating safer and smarter road networks. Their AI-powered ITS solutions are perfectly aligned with e& capital’s strategic focus on investing in companies that are disrupting industries through emerging technologies like AI, connectivity, and IoT.”

“We’re excited to make this strategic investment in Derq, a significant innovator in intelligent transportation solutions. Their solutions are transforming how cities and industries approach mobility, safety and efficiency,” said Vikram Taneja, Head of AT&T Ventures. “We look forward to collaborating with their team to drive forward innovations that will shape smarter, more connected infrastructure.”

Derq’s offerings address the immediate safety and efficiency needs of today’s roads and lays the groundwork for a safer and more efficient connected transportation ecosystem in the future. By integrating state-of-the-art AI and IoT with connected infrastructure and sensing technologies, Derq’s platform provides road owners and operators with critical road safety insights, innovative traffic control capabilities, and advanced connected vehicles applications.

“We are thrilled to have the support of e& and AT&T, two global telecommunication and technology leaders,” said Dr. Georges Aoude, co-founder and CEO of Derq. “These strategic relationships not only validate the progress made to date but empower us to scale our operations and enhance our ability to deliver next-generation intelligent transportation solutions to customers around the world.”

To date, Derq has more than 25 active deployments in 16 states across the United States as well as several international deployments. The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced Derq as a winner of the agency’s Intersection Safety Challenge as well as was named Derq among its Allies in Action as Derq joins the country’s National Roadway Safety Strategy (NRSS) and U.S Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg’s call to action to reverse the spike in crashes and traffic-related fatality rates.

“We have bold plans to harness digital infrastructure and usher in a future where our roads are safer and more efficient,” said Aoude. “We are well-positioned to continue leading this charge and develop and deploy intelligent transportation solutions at scale.”

· e& aims to achieve Level 4 autonomy by 2030 across international operations

· Collaboration focuses on AI for 5G and sustainability initiatives

e& International has signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global tech leaders Huawei, Ericsson, Nokia, and Intel to transform its mobile networks using artificial intelligence (AI).

Centered around a shared ambition to revolutionise e&’s mobile network infrastructure, this landmark collaboration is set to redefine the telecommunications landscape by laying the groundwork for an "autonomous network" strategy that aligns with the Group’s digital transformation objectives.

Backed by TM Forum, an alliance of 800+ global companies this association aims to help e& achieve Level 4 autonomy in its mobile networks by 2030, a major milestone in its digital transformation journey to becoming a tech-driven organisation.

Sabri Yehya, Chief Technology Officer, e& international, said “This multilateral partnership is a game-changer for e& international and a bold move that will lead the industry into a new era with networks that think, adapt, and evolve in real-time. e&’s goal to achieving Level 4 autonomy is not just about staying competitive; it’s about leveraging the transformative power of AI to deliver frictionless, intuitive experiences for our customers as we set new industry standards for how we connect, communicate, and create.”

George Glass, Chief Technology Officer, TM Forum said “This is not just a technological milestone; it represents a fundamental shift towards AI-first operations that empowers telcos to unlock efficiency and growth. e&’s bold vision for achieving AN Level 4 by 2030 with Huawei, Ericsson, Nokia and Intel is a perfect example of what can be achieved through industry collaboration. TM Forum is committed to supporting the global telco industry on this journey by providing the frameworks, tools, and guidance needed to build an end-to-end, AI-first operational model that will unlock new growth opportunities.”

An autonomous network uses AI and advanced technologies to manage, optimise, and repair itself with minimal human intervention. It can automatically adjust settings for optimal performance, detect and fix issues to minimise disruptions, adapt to new devices or updates, and predict maintenance needs before problems arise.

Achieving Level 4 autonomy means e&’s networks will largely run themselves, handling most operational tasks automatically, with human oversight for only the most complex or strategic situations. This level of autonomy will enable e& to deliver more efficient, reliable, and responsive services to its customers.

e& international and its partners will work together to set the standards for achieving this high level of autonomy. This includes evaluating current capabilities, identifying challenges, and planning the steps needed to enhance network autonomy. All partners will also test real-world AI use cases that can improve customer experiences, boost efficiency, and support sustainability.

The telecom partners will also create a detailed white paper outlining e&'s current network capabilities and its plans for the future. This includes leveraging AI to accelerate the rollout of 5G in key markets and exploring AI-driven solutions to reduce carbon emissions, supporting e&’s sustainability goals.

e& and PPF Group (“PPF”) today announced the successful completion of their landmark partnership, with e& acquiring a controlling stake (50% plus one economic share) in the service and infrastructure companies of PPF Telecom Group (“PPF Telecom”) across Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Slovakia. This acquisition marks a significant step in e&'s ongoing global expansion ambitions, diversifying and growing its geographical presence to 38 countries. 

This milestone is poised to transform the telecom landscape in the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region and deliver enhanced value to over 10 million customers across the four markets. The partnership will provide them access to cutting-edge technologies, expanded product offerings, and innovative digital services to accelerate digital growth and empower businesses and communities alike.

A partnership built on mutual strengths

The conclusion of this transaction is a significant leap forward for both e& and PPF Telecom. By combining e&'s global scale, extensive sector expertise, and digital capabilities with PPF Telecom's deep regional knowledge and proven track record of organic growth and operational excellence, this partnership is set to accelerate future growth while opening new avenues for advanced digital services, IoT solutions, and enhanced B2B offerings.

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e&, added: "The completion of our transaction to partner with PPF Telecom is a momentous point in e&’s journey, extending our telecom footprint to 20 countries and the overall footprint of e& operations to 38 countries, across the Middle East, Asia and Africa, and now Central and Eastern Europe. PPF Telecom's regional expertise and e&'s global capabilities create a powerful platform for growth and innovation across these dynamic markets. We are all committed to providing enhanced value to our customers through cutting-edge digital services.

I am delighted to welcome Balesh Sharma, CEO of PPF Telecom and his talented team to the e& family. Their deep understanding of the local markets will be invaluable as we move forward on this exciting new chapter.”

Khalifa Al Shamsi, CEO, e& international, said: “We are excited to welcome the PPF Telecom team to the e& family. This partnership opens tremendous opportunities for cross-pollination of ideas, best practices and innovative solutions and strengthens our ability to provide state-of-the-art and reliable telecom, cutting-edge technology and digital services to millions of new customers, fostering economic growth and digital inclusion across the region.

I look forward to working with Balesh Sharma and the PPF Telecom team to leverage our combined strengths, drive greater operational efficiency and accelerate the rollout of next-generation networks and digital services. Together, we are well-positioned to drive digital advancement and explore new growth opportunities across our expanded global network.”

A new era for PPF Telecom

A key differentiator of PPF Telecom is its unique asset separation model in the telecom world. This strategically innovative approach enables greater focus and specialisation, leading to potential performance enhancements and value creation in both infrastructure and service areas.

This asset separation model will enable the new partnership to optimise resource allocation, streamline decision-making, and enhance overall efficiency.

PPF's proven lean management practices combined with e&'s global scale and resources will be a cornerstone of this partnership’s operational strategy to drive significant operational synergies and cost efficiencies. This synergistic approach is set to deliver efficient and high-quality services while maintaining agility in the dynamic telecom market.

Jiří Šmejc, CEO, PPF, said: "I welcome e& as our partner in the telco business in CEE. Together, we have created a platform to drive value creation in fast-developing telecommunications markets. Our partnership with e& testifies to the quality of PPF's industry expertise and local knowledge. In return, PPF's telco teams will benefit from the global scale and technology know-how of e&, enabling us to meet our ambitions for further growth. It took more than a year and a half since our initial discussions to close this extremely complex transaction. The result is hugely rewarding, and I would like to thank both teams for their great work."

Jiří Šmejc reiterated that PPF's telco assets in the Czech Republic will remain outside of e& PPF Telecom and will be wholly owned by PPF.

Under the terms of the partnership, Balesh Sharma, PPF Telecom CEO, and his PPF Telecom management team will retain their roles at e& PPF Telecom. This will ensure the continuity of the operations while drawing on the broad expertise of PPF Telecom’s teams in their respective markets.

Balesh Sharma, CEO PPF Telecom, said: "Today marks an important milestone, not only in the journey of e& PPF Telecom, but for the broader telecom sector in the region. As a result of this partnership, our customers will get even better services, including access to the e& suite of products, and will benefit from better international roaming offers. For our employees, the partnership opens new learning and development, and career opportunities, thanks to e&’s global footprint.”

Value creation through strategic partnership

This deal will leverage synergies in network operations, procurement and customer service, driving increased operational efficiency and unlocking new opportunities for growth, innovation and enhanced customer experiences across the region. e&’s expertise in digital services, AI and IoT will further enhance PPF Telecom’s offerings, ensuring a seamless transition and continued access to best-in-class services. Customers will benefit from an expanded portfolio of world-class products and services, including advanced B2B and IoT solutions.

This partnership is also set to bring great value to e& and PPF Telecom’s employees and unlock new opportunities for career growth, cross-continental learning, and integration into a global talent network. The new joint entity, e& PPF Telecom, will operate as a standalone entity, retaining its current management team and employee base. 

e& and Nokia Bell Labs were recognised by SAMENA Council in the ‘MEA Business Technology Achievement’ under the ‘Innovative Collaborations and Partnerships’ award category  for its contribution towards the innovative advancements in AI and R&D across industries.

MEA Business awards celebrate a diverse range of technology achievements from a range of sectors including telecommunications, AI and machine learning, Cyber Security, cloud computing satellite technology, robotics, e-commerce and many more.

This award is a testimony to e&’s continuous efforts and achievements in the field of AI, specifically the recent partnership with Nokia’s research arm ‘Nokia Bell Labs’. This partnership brings together the advanced industrial research and innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, with e&’s deep understanding of the market and industry sector.

Most recently e& announced the launch of the #AI4SD platform developed by e& in collaboration with UNDP & MBZUAI, an #AI powered solution to help countries and NGOs better predict and respond to natural disasters. Nokia Bell Labs is an industry leader in Responsible AI and has defined six principles to guide AI research in the future along the lines of fairness, reliability, privacy, transparency, sustainability and accountability.

SAMENA council serves as a unified voice for telecom operators and a platform for indusry decision makers to help bring about a consensus-driven policy and required regulatory change for enabling digital transformation in the SA-ME-NA (Subcontinent, Asia, Middle East and North Africa) region.

e& UAE today announced the launch of next generation enterprise connectivity platform designed to enable businesses to build secure, scalable, and efficient hybrid or multi-cloud architectures over public, private and hybrid networks.

The platform comprises of TrustNet, 5G and AI Net to provide seamless network connectivity, connecting corporate branches, data centres, and third-party locations with leading cloud providers, such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and others. This fully managed private and public network service ensures reliability, robust security, and 24/7 comprehensive support, making it ideal for organisations aiming to optimise performance and business continuity.

“The launch of this platform will undoubtedly transform the way enterprises operate,” said Haitham Abdulrazzak, Chief Business Officer, e& UAE. “The growing demand for secure, high-speed connectivity is a priority for us. Our new services, particularly the expansion and integration of private, public and hybrid network capabilities with multi-cloud connectivity, led by API integration and automation ensure ultra-fast, reliable, and secure connections for our clients, even in the most demanding multi-cloud environments.

“This is particularly relevant and will provide a robust connectivity backbone to UAE government initiatives towards building smart cities incorporating IoT and AI enabling innovation and growth across industries from finance to healthcare.”

In today’s digital landscape, businesses are adopting hybrid and multi-cloud strategies to drive innovation and stay competitive. However, these strategies bring challenges like security risks and performance bottlenecks. TrustNet addresses these challenges head-on, offering private and public and secure connectivity with built-in AI that ensures optimal performance, predicts traffic surges, and automates adjustments for maximum efficiency.

The integration of 5G and AI into the platform also supports in future proofing the platform allowing enterprises to experience the future of enterprise connectivity with private mobile edge and 5G slicing. With AI revolutionising industries ranging from real-time analytics to automation and machine learning, the full capabilities can only be realised with appropriate network infrastructure.

The combination of AI and private & public connectivity opens doors to new capabilities like advanced data analysis, predictive insights, and automation, while private & public connectivity ensures that these AI models can be trained, accessed, and scaled securely and efficiently. Together, they allow businesses to accelerate innovation cycles, enhance customer experiences, and optimise operations. By securely connecting to public clouds, businesses can access cutting-edge AI tools and models, driving better decision-making and unlocking new revenue streams, all while maintaining compliance and security. 

First collaboration of it’s kind in the manufacturing sector

e& UAE, the telecommunications arm of global technology group e&, and EMSTEEL Group, the UAE’s largest steel and building materials manufacturer have come together for a first of a kind collaboration in the manufacturing sector to design & deploy the next generation of advanced 5G network.

e& UAE’s 5G private virtual network significantly reduces operational expenses and improves worker health, safety, and environment (HSE). This network will set to enable the Industry 4.0 advanced digital use cases which will significantly reduce operational cost increase productivity and enhance ensure Health & safety of workers.

EMSTEEL will be the first to utilise the power of the 5G Slicing of the UAE. Under the agreement, e& UAE's industrial connectivity proposition will also feature customisable 5G slicing, enabling EMSTEEL to cost-effectively tailor network resources for specific applications and optimise performance across various manufacturing processes.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer, e& UAE, said: “This partnership with EMSTEEL marks a significant milestone in our journey to redefine the boundaries of industrial connectivity. By expanding the reach of 5G private virtual networks into the manufacturing sector, we're empowering businesses to unlock unprecedented levels of efficiency, safety, and sustainability.”

Eng. Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO, EMSTEEL, said: “Partnering with e& UAE is a defining step in EMSTEEL’s journey toward a future of advanced, connected manufacturing. This collaboration enables us to pioneer Industry 4.0 capabilities that enhance operational efficiencies and drive sustainability. By integrating real-time communication and predictive automation, we are setting new benchmarks in productivity and environmental stewardship, aligning with our commitment to innovative and sustainable growth for the UAE’s industrial sector”

By harnessing the power of a dedicated 5G private virtual network and advanced 5G slicing, EMSTEEL can revolutionise its manufacturing operations. Real-time communication and automation across production processes become a reality, significantly enhancing safety through immediate monitoring of equipment health and worker conditions, allowing for timely interventions.

5G's ultra-low latency and high bandwidth facilitate seamless integration of AI-driven machinery and predictive maintenance, optimising efficiency and minimising downtime. Furthermore, the integration of IoT sensors and smart analytics enables EMSTEEL to monitor and reduce energy consumption and emissions, aligning with its sustainability objectives. In essence, 5G private networks and slicing empower EMSTEEL to create a more connected, intelligent, and sustainable manufacturing environment.

Building upon the successful partnership with ADNOC to create the energy industry's largest 5G private network, the MoU with EMSTEEL further expands e&'s commitment to leveraging 5G technology across various sectors, including manufacturing.

e& UAE, telecommunication arm of e&, is pioneering the future of wireless technology and high-speed connectivity with the world’s first Wi-Fi 8 prototype, showcased at GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest technology exhibition.

The Wi-Fi 8 prototype aims to deliver data rates of up to 100 Gbps, making it ideal for high-bandwidth applications such as 4K and 8K video streaming, and low-latency applications such as virtual and augmented reality.

Marwan Bin Shakar, Senior Vice President/Access Network Development, e& UAE said: “The Wi-Fi 8 prototype at GITEX represents a leap forward in connectivity, offering ultra-fast speeds that unlock a world of possibilities. This prototype demonstrates our commitment to providing exceptional value to our customers and driving meaningful change in the digital era. We are dedicated to deliver innovative solutions that empower our clients and foster the adoption of advanced technologies throughout the UAE and beyond."

Wi-Fi 8 is set to revolutionise wireless technology, outperforming its forerunners in numerous ways. Among its anticipated advancements is a remarkable increase in data transmission rates. Built on the achievements of earlier versions, Wi-Fi 8 aims to provide ultra-high throughput, advanced modulation techniques, and expanded spectrum usage. The new mm Wave frequency band enhances Wi-Fi 8 by providing access to a larger spectrum of frequencies, facilitating increased bandwidth and enabling data transfer speeds of up to 100 Gbps.

To ensure the security of enhanced connectivity, Wi-Fi 8 will incorporate cutting-edge protective measures, including next-generation encryption standards, quantum-resistant security, and enhanced authentication methods. 

Partnership will leverage 5G, AI, and IoT technologies to enhance operations, safety and sustainability across the sector

In a transformative move to advance the UAE’s maritime sector, e& UAE, telecommunication arm of e&, Maqta Gateway, digital arm of AD Ports Group, and UAE-based space technology company, Space42 have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at GITEX GLOBAL 2024. This strategic partnership aims to revolutionise maritime operations by leveraging cutting edge technologies, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for maritime innovation and digital transformation.

Focused on developing smart solutions for the maritime sector, this joint initiative leverages advanced 5G connectivity, IoT, and AI technology to transform operations and services, enhancing both safety and environmental sustainability. The partnership will explore and deploy innovative solutions such as smart marine buoys, 5G-powered surveillance systems, drone technology, IoT-enabled, marine transportand satellite connectivity for marine vessels. By embedding these smart technologies into operations, the collaboration will also drive cost reduction across the sector.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO at e& UAE said: “This collaboration represents a strategic milestone as we join forces to drive technological progress across the region. Through our partnership with Maqta Gateway and Space42, we are dedicated to exploring and adopting advanced solutions in artificial intelligence, 5G, and satellite technologies to bolster Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector. This reaffirms our commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology to transform industries and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s role as a global leader in the maritime field.”

Dr. Noura Al Dhaheri, CEO of Digital Cluster and CEO of Maqta Gateway, AD Ports Group, said: “This partnership between Maqta Gateway, e& UAE and Space 42 enables us to collectively spearhead advanced innovations for Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector. By enabling IoT, 5G, and satellite connectivity on smart aids to navigation (AtoN) equipment, maritime assets and public transportation, we aim to provide all round visibility and real time monitoring of Abu Dhabi’s waterways.”

Under the guidance of our wise leadership, this collaboration allows Maqta Gateway to further our vision of digitialising and positively disrupting trade and logistics sectors through adoption of advanced technologies that offer increased transparency, efficiency, and predictability.”

Hasan Al Hosani, CEO, Bayanat Smart Solutions, Space42, said: “Aligned with Abu Dhabi’s ambitions to become a global leader in logistics and maritime innovation, this partnership supports the emirate’s goals of economic diversification and strengthens its position as an international trade hub. By leveraging AI, 5G networks, IoT technologies, and satellite communication, the collaboration aims to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency and environmental sustainability, while also driving cost reduction across the sector.

Announced at GITEX GLOBAL 2024, the partnership is dedicated to advancing the National Youth Agenda 2031

The Federal Youth Authority and e& signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating the National Youth Agenda 2031 during the ongoing GITEX Global 2024. This partnership represents a significant milestone in empowering Emirati youth by introducing initiatives that allow them to explore their potential in addition to gaining access to the skills and opportunities essential for actively contributing to the UAE’s long-term development vision.

Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority, said: “The UAE government’s development policy places significant emphasis on youth as a central force in our national pursuit of global leadership across key sectors. This commitment stems from our belief in their capability to lead and drive our development goals forward. Empowering young Emiratis through guidance and support is a fundamental approach, engaging them as active participants in the nation’s journey of growth and progress.

“Such partnerships underscore the value of multi-sector collaboration to support our youth by providing them with the opportunities and resources essential to unlocking their full potential. Through this partnership, we aim to develop youth capabilities that encompass creative and professional skills, equipping them to navigate the rapid changes in the industry. Our vision is to prepare a generation with both technical and hands-on skills, establishing them as a cornerstone for sustainable and innovative achievements.”

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “At e&, the investment into our youth is into the future of UAE. Through our partnership with the Federal Youth Authority, we are equipping young Emiratis with the resources and opportunities they need to maximise their potential and build essential leadership and professional skills.

“This also reflects e&’s dedication to addressing the youth’s needs through initiatives that foster innovation, cultivate leadership, and prepare future business leaders. In line with the National Youth Agenda 2031, it focuses on skills enhancement, entrepreneurial thinking, and enabling young Emiratis to contribute to national development.”

This strategic partnership establishes a framework for launching educational programmes and workshops that foster professional skills, alongside youth-led initiatives aimed at serving the community. Both the Federal Youth Authority and e& are dedicated to empowering Emirati youth by providing access to advanced resources and exceptional opportunities aligned with the nation’s vision for growth and prosperity.

Through this shared commitment, the partnership invites stakeholders—including educational institutions, decision-makers, industry partners, and the wider community—to champion youth-focused initiatives. Grounded in global best practices, it unites public and private sectors to empower youth to drive progress and contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s development.

New agreement means Mercedes-Benz customers will benefit from Vodafone’s IoT connectivity services in the territory

Vodafone Business IoT will collaborate with e& UAE, the telecommunications arm of global technology group e&, to supply automotive IoT connectivity services to Mercedes-Benz in the UAE. This agreement – which will be commercially available for Mercedes-Benz’s customers in the first half of 2025 – uses Vodafone’s Global SIM+ eSIM solution to provide seamless in-vehicle connectivity and enhanced digital services for drivers which is compliant with local regulation in the country.

Under this agreement, e& UAE will grant access to its extensive coverage in the territory and advanced IoT capabilities through its mobile network to Vodafone Business IoT customers. This partnership expands the footprint of Vodafone Business IoT’s connectivity and provides e& UAE with a broader reach to serve the cutting-edge digital automotive solutions of global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

The announcement between Vodafone Business IoT and e& UAE builds on the strategic relationship that Vodafone Group Plc and e& announced last year. The strategic relationship allows the two companies to collaborate across a broad range of growth areas, where e& and Vodafone can benefit from each other's respective operational scale and complementary geographic footprint.

By leveraging the innovative Global SIM+ eSIM proposition, Vodafone Business IoT and e& can provide seamless cross-border connectivity, making it easier and more efficient for customers to access connected services globally. 

Erik Brenneis, Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone Business IoT, said: “We’re delighted to build on our existing relationship with e& to provide seamless IoT connectivity to more customers in more countries. This agreement means that OEMs – like Mercedes-Benz – will be able to deploy their connected cars to their customers in the UAE, while being assured that their customers will reap the benefits of reliable, fully-compliant connectivity. We look forward to our continued relationship with e&, and hyperscaling our managed IoT connectivity service in the region.”

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer of e& UAE, said: “This strategic partnership with Vodafone marks a significant step in the evolution of automotive connectivity. By amplifying Vodafone's global IoT capabilities with e& UAE’s secure connectivity services and reliable network, we’re set to deliver a truly seamless and innovative solution for Mercedes-Benz in the country. This partnership will continue to bring cutting-edge solutions to the connected car industry, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and enhancing safety, efficiency, and the overall driving experience.”

This agreement ensures that customers will have a reliable and secure experience, through locally configured connectivity that complies with local connectivity requirements – governed by the local expertise extended by e&. This enables OEMs to deploy compliant IoT services, as well as offering customers assurance that their services will run seamlessly. It will also allow drivers to take advantage of fully integrated in-car services such as popular music streaming apps, personalised infotainment and for the vehicle manufacturer to have access to telematics services and over-the-air software updates.

About Vodafone Group

Vodafone is a leading European and African telecoms company. We provide mobile and fixed services to over 330 million customers in 15 countries (excludes Italy which is held as a discontinued operation under Vodafone Group), partner with mobile networks in 45 more and have one of the world’s largest IoT platforms. In Africa, our financial technology businesses serve almost 79 million customers across seven countries – managing more transactions than any other provider.

Our purpose is to connect for a better future by using technology to improve lives, businesses and help progress inclusive sustainable societies. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact to reach net zero emissions by 2040.

For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com, follow us on X at @VodafoneGroup or connect with us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/vodafone.

e& UAE and Public Safety and Security (PSS), Airbus’ business unit dedicated to critical communications, announce a landmark partnership to deliver state-of-the-art communication solutions to the enterprise market.

The formal MoU was signed during a ceremony at GITEX Global 2024 on e& booth, in the presence of Abubaker Mohamed Almarzooqi , Vice President, Government Sales-Security, Critical Infrastructure & Public Safety, e& UAE , and Thibaut Faivre, Head of Sales and Program Delivery for the Middle East, Africa, and India,  PSS, that marked  the beginning of this strategic collaboration, highlighting its importance to the industry.

By introducing mission critical Push-to-talk and push-to-video (MC-PTX) services its portfolio, e& UAE aims to spearhead the digital transformation of the enterprise landscape, equipping users with reliable audio & video critical communication, cutting-edge features and capabilities essential for thriving in today’s dynamic business environment.

Thibaut Faivre expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to partner with e& UAE to deliver MC-PTX platform, Agnet to their enterprise customers across UAE. This partnership not only drives the adoption of advanced communication and collaboration solutions but also bolsters digital transformation efforts across diverse sectors, fostering increased efficiency and innovation.”

Abubaker Mohamed Almarzooqi, Vice President/Government Sales-Security, Critical Infrastructure & Public Safety added: “This collaboration with Airbus confirms our commitment to delivering cutting-edge communication solutions that empower our enterprise clients. By harnessing the capabilities of a multi-tenant, critical communication solution, we are poised to enhance operational efficiency and accelerate digital transformation, further solidifying our leadership position in the enterprise market. This partnership not only reflects our dedication to innovation but also our focus on delivering tangible benefits to our customers, enabling them to thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.”

Launches RPA as a managed service at GITEX 2024 to support SMBs

UiPath [NYSE: PATH], a global leader in enterprise automation and AI-powered software, has deepened its strategic partnership with e& UAE, the telecommunications arm of e&. Through this partnership, e& UAE becomes the first UiPath partner in the region to offer Robotic Process Automation (RPA) combined with AI as a managed service, hosted on e& UAE’s cloud infrastructure.

“Our collaboration with UiPath demonstrates our commitment to empowering businesses of all sizes, including SMBs,” said Hazem Gebili, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Service Solutions.  “By integrating RPA with AI, we are enabling businesses to streamline their operations, reduce manual errors, and boost overall efficiency. This lowers operational costs, allowing businesses to focus on their core tasks, optimise resources, and drive higher productivity—all while accelerating their digital transformation.”

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB said: “Through our unique agreement with UiPath, we now have access to the latest AI-powered solutions, allowing us to offer businesses an affordable entry point to automate their processes. e& UAE’s latest RPA managed services are supported by a comprehensive team of RPA/AI professionals. It simplifies the adoption process, enabling SMBs to benefit from automation regardless of their technical expertise or budget. This is about empowering businesses to focus on growth and innovation while we manage the complexity of automation.”

Building on their successful partnership since 2018, e& UAE has extended its Enterprise License Agreement (ELA) with UiPath for another three years, reinforcing its commitment to making automation more accessible.

By integrating AI with Robotic Process Automation (RPA), e& UAE will further implement advanced solutions such as test automation, task mining, process mining, and document processing across its internal operations as well.

"Our expanded partnership with e& UAE represents a significant step forward in our mission to accelerate human achievement through automation,” said Zakaria Haltout, Area Vice President MEA at UiPath. “By combining e&’s extensive reach and infrastructure with UiPath's cutting-edge automation technologies, we're poised to drive unprecedented digital transformation in the region."

This alliance also establishes e& UAE as UiPath’s largest install base in the Middle East & Africa (MEA), with over 1,200 robots in production and nearly 1000 automated processes.

e&’ UAE’s partnership with UiPath is transforming how businesses, particularly SMBs, leverage automation. The launch of RPA as a managed service creates a powerful digital workforce, complementing human strengths in creativity and decision-making by taking over repetitive, error-prone tasks. This blend of human talent and automation drives efficiency, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Partnership to deliver cloud solutions, supporting AI deployment and digital transformation across the region

e&, the global technology group which serves more than 175 million subscribers in 34 countries, today announced a strategic partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), the world's most comprehensive cloud provider. This follows AWS’s launch of its second Middle East cloud region in the UAE in 2022, with a planned US$5 billion (AED 20 billion) investment in the local economy through to 2036. 

The new alliance combines AWS’s cloud infrastructure and solutions, which are sovereign by design, with e&’s network capabilities to address the most stringent customer requirements across the public sector and regulated industries including healthcare, finance, and oil and gas in the Middle East. Together, the companies will provide cloud solutions that align with industry regulations, meeting the growing demand for secure and scalable infrastructure. By aligning with AWS, e& solidifies its role as a key enabler of the UAE’s digital economy, unlocking new growth opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

As part of the collaboration, AWS and e& signed a US$1 billion-plus (AED3.7 billion) agreement over the next six years to accelerate the impact of cloud-driven innovation and digital transformation across the region. The alliance will focus on delivering core cloud services like storage, computing, networking, cybersecurity, as well as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).

The agreement enables e& to leverage AWS’s 200-plus fully featured services to modernize platforms such as Starzplay Arabia, a TV streaming service of which e& has a majority stake; and Careem, the Middle East ‘everything app’ offering millions of customers easy access to food, mobility, digital payments, and more. e& will also deploy Amazon’s technologies to expand its AI capabilities and to advance its Smart Home services, while e&’s Smiles points can be earned when shopping on Amazon.

AWS will enable hundreds of small-medium-sized businesses, supported by e&, to access the AWS Marketplace. This will help these businesses discover, deploy, and manage software which runs on AWS, democratizing access to the cloud.

Just like how AWS democratized access to cloud computing services, it is transforming access to building and using generative AI technology so that companies of all sizes, across all industries, with developers of all skillsets, can take part in this transformation and grow their businesses. The two companies will also leverage AWS’s unique Amazon Bedrock generative AI solutions to empower e&’s Middle East customers, large and small, with advanced AI to drive productivity and improve customer experiences. Amazon Bedrock provides foundation model choice from leading AI providers via a single Application Programming Interface (API) for companies to build and scale generative AI applications.

The AWS and e& collaboration arrives at an integral time as cloud adoption continues to transform both public sector services and enterprises.  According to PwC, nearly 70 percent of Middle East companies plan to migrate most of their operations to the cloud within the next two years, while a 2023 report by Telecom Advisory Services predicts public cloud adoption to unlock US$733 billion in economic value by 2033 across the Middle East and North Africa.

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO of e&, said: “This agreement with AWS demonstrates our shared long-term strategic goal to create an ecosystem that supports today’s digital needs and lays the foundation for future growth. We are enabling businesses across the region to lead in an AI-powered, data-driven economy.  By investing in both critical infrastructure and talent development, we’re again supporting the region’s economy, digital resilience, and, most importantly, its people, who will be instrumental in realizing the UAE’s vision of becoming a world-leading digital powerhouse.”

Tanuja Randery, Vice President, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, AWS, said: “This collaboration marks another significant step in our ongoing investment in the UAE, which has emerged as an international force driving innovation. Our partnership with e& underscores AWS’s deep commitment to both the UAE and the wider Middle East, particularly in fast-tracking UAE Vision 2031. Our security infrastructure and expertise in AI and ML empowers public sector organizations, regulated industries, and enterprises with the tools they need to innovate securely and drive progress across the region.”

Accelerating digital transformation, empowering talent, and driving regional growth

With a bold vision and commitment to accelerating talent development, AWS and e& will also work on developing a local upskilling initiative, with plans to provide training opportunities to thousands of individuals – including UAE nationals – in cloud technologies and AI.  

“This initiative aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2031, aimed at positioning the nation as a global economic hub while driving digital transformation across key sectors,” added Randery. “Our investment in developing the skills of UAE nationals will have a positive impact on the region’s economic growth and technological leadership.”

Salvador Anglada, CEO of e& enterprise, said: “Our partnership with AWS is a game-changer for our customers. By combining AWS’s advanced cloud capabilities with e&'s local expertise, we will empower businesses across the region with the tools and infrastructure to accelerate their digital transformation and become more agile to scale as they innovate faster. And most importantly, our shared commitment to investing in training ensures that the region will have a highly skilled workforce ready to lead in the AI-driven economy of the future."

e&, the global technology group, is set to make a significant impact at GITEX Global 2024, the world's largest technology event. Building upon a year of remarkable growth and innovation, e& will unveil its latest advancements in AI, connectivity, and digital transformation.

This year, e&’s GITEX participation is focused on “demonstrating AI in action” by highlighting its practical applications and showcasing AI’s real-world impact in driving innovation, enhancing connectivity, transforming industries, and delivering tangible value across all sectors of the digital economy.

In addition to announcing several strategic partnerships at GITEX, e& will showcase a suite of groundbreaking, real-world AI-powered solutions across various industries, including intelligent connectivity, digital finance, smart cities, healthcare, and workplace transformation. These cutting-edge technologies demonstrate the company's commitment to innovation and its ability to leverage AI to drive digital transformation.

One of its prize technology exhibits is the e& UAE’s 'Human Digital Advisors,' which leverages AI and 5G to deliver personalised, real-time assistance in a fully immersive holographic format. Visitors will also be able to interact with the digital advisors that will be launched as the first ‘Human-Digital Customer Service’ for a UAE-based telco in the region.

The e& pavilion will feature an "AI Zone," including the "Mini AI Museum." This interactive experience offers a journey through the history of AI, demonstrating how e& is harnessing intelligent technology to revolutionise various sectors. Moreover, the AI Zone will highlight the diverse applications of AI across various sectors. From empowering People of Determination to transforming industries like healthcare, education, and finance, the AI Zone will showcase the seismic potential of this technology.

Expanding on its 5G achievements at past GITEX events, e& UAE, the telco arm of e&, is poised to solidify its connectivity leadership by announcing a groundbreaking network speed upgrade. The company will unveil the fastest aggregated 5G-Advanced speed of 50Gbps, setting a new benchmark for mobile network performance.

e& money, the fintech arm of e& life, will introduce two innovative features to its financial super app. The EasyCredit microlending service empowers users to access microloans seamlessly, offering a convenient solution for urgent financial needs. Furthermore, the new gold investment feature provides a secure and user-friendly platform for tracking and investing in gold, all within the convenience of the app.

e& enterprise, the digital transformation arm of e&, will showcase its pioneering public-private sector partnerships. Collaborations with key government entities highlight the company's role in driving digital transformation across various sectors. Additionally, e& enterprise will offer an immersive experience at GITEX, showcasing its innovative sustainability solutions. Visitors can explore key features such as GHG reporting, ESG, and the Vyzrd climate intelligence platform.

In addition to showcasing its latest innovations, e& will also announce strategic partnerships aimed at driving digital transformation across the Middle East region. The company's focus on cloud solutions, AI deployment, and collaborative partnerships will deepen its position as a leader in the technology industry.

The e& pavilion is located at Dubai World Trade Centre, Zabeel 1, stand no: Z1-A10 & Z1-A20.

e& UAE, the telecommunication arm of e& announced a groundbreaking achievement ahead of GITEX Global 2024 with the fastest aggregated 5G-Advanced Speed of 62Gbps, making UAE residents the first to experience landmark speeds globally.

Utilising cutting-edge hardware and sophisticated algorithms like MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple input, multiple output), e& UAE successfully aggregated multiple carriers across high-band and low-band over simplified architecture, reaching a new record speed of 62 Gbps. This achievement marks e& UAE's collective efforts in driving progress to create a better tomorrow, transforming industries and stimulating creativity with no delay in this fast-paced information driven age. In the digital transformation era, this accomplishment will pave the way for technology innovations that will make a difference across sectors, not only within the UAE but also across the globe.

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology & Information Officer, e& UAE said: “We are thrilled to announce e& UAE's achievement of the world's fastest 5G-Advanced network speed. With the target of 10Giga nation, we are poised to unleash the boundless potential of technology, empower innovative services and applications that will transform the fabric of society and the economy.”

The backbone of this endeavor lies in e& UAE's advanced network, ensuring stable performance at every step. But the innovation doesn't stop there - e& UAE is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver seamless and personalised experiences to every customer. Moreover, AI technologies will spearhead intelligent energy-saving initiatives, driving environmental responsibility and technological excellence to new heights.

Aligned with the UAE's ambitious digital agenda, e& UAE's relentless investment in its network and technologies underscores its commitment to delivering premium digital services. e& UAE has one of the largest 5G-Advanced ready network. "By adopting the latest 5G-Advanced solutions, we are not only delivering unparalleled experiences to individuals and organisations today but also paving the way for ultra-high download speeds in the future, amplifying their overall experience," added Murshed.

This achievement solidifies e& UAE's position as a trailblazer in the telecommunications industry, reaffirming its dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering connectivity solutions for the digital age. It also aligns with the company's mission to contribute to the UAE's leadership efforts in technological innovation, thus establishing the nation as a hub for innovation, connectivity, and digital progress.

‘Smart Home’ booth will feature an immersive journey into the future of living with AI technology

e& UAE is set to showcase its new AI-driven Smart Home experience at GITEX GLOBAL, which will be taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 14^th to 18^th October. The Smart Home booth will offer an immersive look into the future of living, where AI anticipates and adapts to user needs. By learning and understanding mood, preferences, habits, and health, the home adjusts itself to create a personalised environment, it simplifies everyday tasks – optimising safety, comfort and convenience to improve quality of life.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: “We understand that today’s consumer is looking for technologies that go beyond automation – to create home environments that are not just smart, but also intuitive, providing personalised comfort and efficiency. Our new Smart Home concept embodies this vision, seamlessly integrating AI technology into daily life to redefine the future of living. We’re very excited for attendees to experience this pioneering technology in action at GITEX 2024.”

GITEX attendees will embark on an immersive journey through e& UAE's AI-driven Smart Home experience. Across five interactive zones, powered by more than 80 smart devices, they’ll discover how AI creates personalised environments for work, relaxation, entertainment, and the kitchen. The Smart Home will intuitively understand the mood, health conditions, and other preferences, adjusting ambiance, lighting scenes, and even aromatherapy to enhance the way of living.

This innovative showcase highlights how smart home devices work together to create a dynamic environment that evolves with its users. The Smart Home concept, which is the first in the region to use AI-driven adaptive living to customise the home environment, demonstrates how advanced AI seamlessly adapts to individual needs. By leveraging interconnected devices, this pioneering innovation reimagines the future of living, where homes evolve in harmony with their users.

The Smart Home Booth will be exhibited at e&’s stand ( Zabeel Hall – Stand no:Z1-A10 & Z1-A20) during GITEX GLOBAL 2024.

With cutting-edge data throughput, minimal latency, and high network capacity, the technology promises optimal performance and support

e& UAE, the telecommunications arm of e&, today announced the launch of its Managed Wi-Fi 7 services. Designed to meet the growing demands of businesses, this next-generation wireless solution offers up to four times faster speeds and twice the capacity of previous Wi-Fi generations, delivering enhanced operational efficiency and scalability.

Hamad Mohamed Almarzooqi, Senior Vice President of Pre-Sales and Business Operations, e& UAE, said: “Wi-Fi 7 marks a transformative leap in wireless networking with faster speeds, greater capacity, and enhanced adaptability. This technology is integral for those looking to optimise virtual conferencing, cloud applications, AR/VR experiences, and other data-intensive applications. The launch of our Managed Wi-Fi 7 services underscores e&’s commitment to providing cutting-edge connectivity solutions, designed to meet the evolving demands of diverse industries.”

Backed by e& UAE’s managed services expertise, the newly launched Managed Wi-Fi 7 services are set to introduce a new era of high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity and improved network stability. These services enable organisations to handle higher device density and increasing digital demands with ease. As a result, businesses can boost productivity, enhance collaboration, and drive innovation.

With a team of dedicated professionals overseeing deployment and management, e& UAE ensures that customers fully leverage the capabilities of the Managed Wi-Fi 7 services.

By investing in a robust WiFi and cloud infrastructure, organisations can fully harness the potential of modern workplace applications while strategically positioning themselves for future advancements. This technology sets a new benchmark in connectivity, supporting businesses with tangible advantages as they adapt to an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Digital inclusion and universal access, transitioning to a more digital economy and employing AI for climate resilience, among key areas of collaboration

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and e&, signed a cooperation agreement on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly to leverage digital technologies for sustainable development in the Arab States region. Cooperation will focus on enhancing digital inclusion to bridge digital divides; promoting transition to a digital economy, focusing on enabling solutions for medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs); expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for climate resilience, and fostering robust public-private partnerships for digital cooperation—under the rubric of the Digital for Sustainable Development (D4SD) initiative, which UNDP is leading alongside key partners in the region.

“The pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals in the Arab States region requires urgent action at scale, which requires expanded and effective partnerships, especially with the business sector,” said Abdallah Al-Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States in UNDP. “We value this new partnership with the e& as an eminent provider of digital services across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa—leveraging its market leadership to harness digital solutions to promote sustainable development, particularly in the realms of AI, financial inclusion and digital capacity building.”

The new partnership will support the AI for Sustainable Development (AI4SD) platform –one of the lead initiatives of the D4SD partnership— by providing transformative digital solutions, data, and technical support to promote the ethical use of AI for the public good in key areas related to the pursuit of the SDGs.  It will also support the development of the Climate & Natural Disaster Crises (CNDC) Platform, aimed at improving resilience to climate-related challenges like floods, earthquakes, and droughts through AI-powered insights and data visualisation tools.

e& will also work with UNDP on pilots in Egypt through its subsidiary, Erada Microfinance focusing on increasing financial inclusion and women entrepreneurship in Egypt’s Upper Region, accelerating SDGs implementation through developing accessible health insurance products, green transformation and financing of risk facilities. The cooperation will also extend the reach of the Arab Knowledge Project, part of UNDP’s FutureSkills4All initiative. e& Egypt and UNDP are working to provide free access to FutureSkills4All’s online courses.

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e& said: “We are incredibly proud to partner with UNDP on such vital initiatives. This collaboration represents an integral step towards harnessing advanced technologies to foster economic growth, enhance public services and empower communities, both developed and underserved. By working across these initiatives to promote a digital economy, sustainable development and build digital capacity, we aim to drive meaningful change and unlock new opportunities across the Arab states. Together, we are committed to creating a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future for all."

The partnership will also boost digital capacity building efforts through initiatives like the Arab Knowledge Project and promote sustainable development goals through active stakeholder engagement and the dissemination of best practices, driving innovation and fostering knowledge exchange through expanding strategic digital public-private collaborative efforts.

e UNDP MoU PR_eng clean.docx

e& UAE has unveiled 'Care Plus,' a support service designed specifically for business customers, a pioneering offering that empowers businesses to tailor their support levels precisely to their unique requirements and critical priorities.

Care Plus is a service that allows customers flexibility to customise their support experience. Businesses can choose from a range of premium support packages and features, ensuring their specific needs are met with the highest level of care and responsiveness.

Care Plus is the latest addition to e& UAE comprehensive business-to-business (B2B) portfolio of managed services. As the initial layer, it provides an essential foundation that supports businesses from the ground up, evolving until reaching full-fledged managed services delivered by a team of experts and the latest technologies. This ensures that e& UAE’s customers can focus on their core business activities without worrying about their network and infrastructure environment.

Marwan Al Zaabi, Vice President of Business Care, e& UAE, said: “With Care Plus, we are not just responding to customer needs—we are anticipating them and setting a new standard in customer support within the MENA region’s telecommunications industry. This service is a testament to e& UAE’s relentless commitment to innovation and our unwavering focus on delivering exceptional experiences for our B2B clients."

Key benefits of the 'Care Plus' service include:

• Dedicated team to provide personalised, priority support for Care Plus customers
• Accelerated resolution of technical and billing issues
• Tailored features and services to address specific business requirements
• Seamless integration with customers' operations for maximum efficiency

The launch of 'Care Plus' has already generated considerable excitement and positive feedback from the business community, underscoring e& UAE's position as the leading provider of transformative managed services in the region.

e& UAE continues to innovate and expand its comprehensive B2B service offerings to support businesses across the region. Care Plus represents e& UAE’s dedication to delivering top-tier managed services that meet the evolving demands of its diverse clientele.

By placing its customers at the heart of innovation, e& UAE is redefining the standards of customer support in the industry, focusing on empowering businesses and enabling their success.

For more information about Care Plus and its business benefits, please visit the e& UAE website.

The HISTORY Channel, HISTORY2 and Crime+Investigation expand evision’s programming lineup

evision and Hearst Networks EMEA today announced a multi-year strategic partnership to bring the flagship channels, The HISTORY Channel, HISTORY2, and Crime+Investigation, to audiences in the UAE.

The channels, available on eLife TV, expand evision’s already extensive library of over 600 channels, enabling subscribers to enjoy high-quality programming with captivating historical narratives and thrilling crime documentaries.

Olivier Bramly, CEO, evision, said: “Combining our extensive distribution network with Hearst Networks EMEAs’ exceptional content, we are excited to bring these world-class channels to a wider audience in the UAE. This collaboration demonstrates our shared focus on delivering exceptional entertainment experiences.”

HISTORY is a global leader in factual entertainment with over 500 hours of new and exclusive programming and a roster of A-list talent. The channel continues to captivate audiences worldwide with immersive explorations of human history and achievement. 

HISTORY2 complements the flagship brand by offering a curated viewing experience into specific areas of historical inquiry.

CRIME+INVESTIGATION delivers a compelling mix of true crime programming to over 100 territories worldwide, providing exclusive insights into criminal investigations and notorious criminals.

Adrian Pilkington, Chief Operating Officer, Hearst Networks EMEA, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with evision to launch our portfolio of premium channels. Viewers will now have access to our amazing content featuring captivating and entertaining history and thrilling true crime investigations.”

Sunil K. Joy, Head of Content, evision, said: “Traditional linear TV remains a dominant force in the entertainment business due to its broad reach and established audience base. The perceived brand credibility associated with such premium network TV channels along with compelling narratives and insightful analysis continue to draw significant viewership and is a great value addition to our Pay TV services.” 

The channels will be available on eLife TV, through Western, Western Plus and Asiana Premium Packs.

Extending the partnership, Hearst Networks EMEA also plan to launch free ad-supported television (FAST) in the MENA region through STARZ ON, enabling a wider audience to discover incredible shows for the first time.

e& UAE has introduced an instant eSIM with 10GB of free data for visitors. The free instant eSIM can be self-activated by simply scanning a QR code and seamlessly connecting via facial recognition technology.

This innovative solution by e& UAE enables visitors to activate their Free Visitor Line eSIM as soon as they pass through immigration. By scanning the QR code and completing a quick facial recognition step, visitors are automatically connected—eliminating queues and time-consuming processes. The free eSIM also comes with 10GB of complimentary data valid for a day, ensuring visitors can connect with loved ones and access essential services immediately.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE said, “The introduction of a self-activation feature for our Free Visitor Line eSIMs is an important milestone in our journey towards digital transformation. This exemplifies our commitment to innovation while reinforcing our dedication to providing exceptional convenience for our customers. As the UAE continues to be a premier destination for tourists worldwide, we believe this initiative sets a new standard for mobile connectivity. We are proud to lead the way in offering such advanced solutions to our valued visitors."

Over the years, the UAE has established itself as a leading tourist destination in the Middle East. Last year, Dubai alone welcomed over 17.15 million international visitors, according to the latest data published by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

e& UAE’s latest offering is set to redefine the way tourists interact with digital and mobile services, making their stay in the country more enjoyable and convenient. This innovation further solidifies the UAE's status as a premier global tourism hub.

Global technology group e& is set for a match day takeover when the Four-In-A-Row Premier League champions, Manchester City meet Brentford on Saturday, 14^th September at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, UK.

Manchester City fans will be able to engage with a host of exciting match day activations centred around the joy of high-speed moments in football.

The takeover will feature dynamic LEDs at the stadium showing the speed of shots immediately after they happen - so fans will be able to see exactly how fast an Erling Haaland thunderbolt is travelling. There will also be an e&-branded centre circle flag at kick-off, along with participants from City Football Schools who will have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of walking out with the players while wearing e& branded shirts.

Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, UAE, fans will be able to watch the game at a live screening at City Challenge in Yas Mall. Supporters will be joined by host and influencer FG to watch Pep Guardiola’s team in action - and also take part in some speed-related activities at City Challenge for a chance to win great prizes.

In addition, e& will present a live link-up between Manchester and Abu Dhabi, with fans competing together in a half-time quiz - a first for Man City.

e& firmly believes in the power of football to engage with its customer base. The group reaches 175 million subscribers in 33 countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, regions where football followership is among the strongest in the world and serves as a common language.

The e& and Manchester City partnership is celebrating its 15^th year, a collaboration that has yielded significant results both on and off the pitch. The match day takeover is a prime example, engaging fans in the UAE, the UK, and globally through TV, social and digital channels. This kind of initiative reinforces e&'s commitment to connecting with football fans worldwide.

This weekend’s match between Manchester City and Brentford kicks off at 3:00pm (6:00pm UAE) on Saturday, 14^th September 2024, and will be screened live at City Challenge, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

e& UAE has announced the grand opening of its second AI-powered autonomous store, EASE (e& Autonomous Store Experience), at Dubai Mall. Following the success of its first AI-powered telecom store, a world first launched in 2023 at the Al Kifaf building, e& UAE continues to pioneer the future of retail with this innovative concept, which offers an effortless shopping journey with no wait times.

Hatem Dowidar, Group Chief Executive Officer, e&, said: “We’re expanding the EASE concept and making it more accessible to people by launching in Dubai Mall. EASE is more than a store; it's a glimpse into the future of shopping, where innovation meets customer experience as we're blurring the lines between the digital and the physical, creating a shopping journey that is frictionless, intuitive, and totally personalised.”

Setting new standards in customer experience, the second EASE store, powered by state-of-the-art AI technology, machine learning, smart shelves, robotics, smart dispensing and trade-in machines, offers a unique and seamless shopping experience. It comes with even more advanced features, such as FastPass and visitor line activation via biometrics or the e& UAE app allowing customers to enter the store, explore, pre-authorise payments on the app and purchase a wide variety of products and services, including mobile and fixed-line products, accessories, handsets, devices, and trade-ins. Upon completing their shopping, customers can use an easy self-service check-out and exit the store at their convenience. Additionally, the facial recognition feature is streamlined with the visitor line purchase journey.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer, e& UAE, said: We are transforming the future of retail by leveraging AI and advanced technology to elevate the customer experience like never before. Our EASE store in Dubai Mall is a bold statement of intent: that AI and cutting-edge technology can elevate the shopping experience to unprecedented heights. With AI-driven insights and a customer-centric approach, we are digitally transforming retail and simplifying our customers’ journey.”

To enhance payment options, Apple Pay and Samsung Pay are now supported on the e& UAE app. Furthermore, customers can conveniently purchase items and opt for delivery to their preferred location through the self-assisted station (SAS).

Located in the world’s most visited mall, the EASE store represents the convergence of AI and the future of retail. EASE can be found on the second floor of Dubai Mall.

• e& enterprise enters Türkiye with a 100% acquisition of GlassHouse, reinforcing its ambition to become a regional leader in end-to-end digital transformation
• With this acquisition, e& group expands its operational footprint to 34 markets
• GlassHouse will operate independently as a subsidiary of e& enterprise, retaining its brand identity

e& enterprise, the digital transformation arm of e&, today announced the successful completion of its US$ 60 million acquisition of GlassHouse, a leading Türkiye-based provider of managed cloud, business continuity and SAP Infrastructure services.

The acquisition, originally announced in June this year, strengthens e& enterprise’s capabilities in private cloud and managed services, bolstering its overall value proposition with the addition of SAP capabilities and vertical expertise within the banking and financial services sector – supported by GlassHouse’s deep understanding and specialist skills in this space. It also marks a significant milestone in e& enterprise’s international growth strategy, following successful market entries into Saudi Arabia in 2019, Egypt in 2023, and now Türkiye, Qatar and South Africa. This acquisition also expands e& group’s operational footprint to 34 markets.

Now part of the e& enterprise family, GlassHouse is well-positioned for growth with a strategic focus on augmenting e& enterprise’s SAP capabilities in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. As the new wholly-owned subsidiary of e& enterprise, GlassHouse will retain its brand identity and continue to operate independently.

Salvador Anglada, Chief Executive Officer, e& enterprise, said: "We are thrilled to welcome GlassHouse into the e& enterprise ecosystem as we continue to bolster our value proposition by reinforcing our capabilities, adding vertical expertise, and expanding into high-growth markets. This acquisition is another bold step in our journey to becoming a regional leader in end-to-end digital transformation.”

Alp Bağrıaçık, CEO, GlassHouse, said: “I am both proud and delighted to announce the successful integration of our company into the e& enterprise ecosystem. By harnessing e& enterprise's robust portfolio, we will provide our customers with cutting-edge security solutions and innovative strategies to accelerate their digital transformation journey.”

Founded in 2004, GlassHouse has established itself as a prominent player in the cloud services sector. It offers managed cloud, business continuity, on-premise backup, private sovereign cloud, and SAP Infrastructure services to over 2,000 enterprises in select geographies. The company boasts a robust presence in the financial services sector, serving nine of the top 10 banks in Türkiye. With over 150 professionals operating across offices in Türkiye, South Africa, and Qatar, GlassHouse is a trusted partner for industry giants such as Microsoft, Dell, and SAP. 

e& Youth Council today welcomed representatives from the Emirates Global Youth Council in the United Kingdom to its ‘Open Innovation Centre’ in Dubai bringing together more than 50 Emirati students pursuing studies in the UK to highlight the various future opportunities across e&. 

By aligning the e& Youth Council with the UAE Ministry of Culture’s Global Youth Council, the visit coinciding with International Youth Day 2024 aims to attract potential UAE Nationals studying at top UK universities and emphasise on e&’s commitment to Emiratisation.

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Emirates Global Youth Council in the UK to our Open Innovation Centre. This event marks a significant milestone in our commitment to Emiratisation as we connect with talented UAE students in the UK. By sharing our vision for digital transformation and the opportunities within e&, we aim to inspire the next generation of tech leaders and encourage strong collaborations between the UAE and the e& youth councils.”

Abdulla Albastaki, President of the Emirates Global Youth Council in the United Kingdom, expressed: "This visit is a significant step towards strengthening the connection between Emirati youth in the UK and the e& Group. By fostering communication and collaboration with various entities, we aim to help our youth realise their aspirations and empower them to contribute effectively to the UAE's sustainable development.

“We believe it’s essential to build bridges of knowledge and experience between our youth and the technology sector back home. Initiatives like this create new opportunities for youth to be part of the UAE's ongoing journey of innovation and growth. Our objective is to equip them with access to the latest global technologies and trends, enhancing their capacity to play a key role in the digital transformation of our nation."

Hessa Ali Nasser, Senior Analyst, Global Connectivity and Projects, e& UAE, and President of e& Youth Council, said: “It's been an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow Emirati youth, exchange ideas, and work towards our shared goal of inspiring the next generation of tech leaders. By bringing members of the Global Youth Council to our Open Innovation Centre, we showcased our innovative solutions, inspired creative thinking, and fostered a collaborative spirit among young minds.”

During the visit the Global Youth Council were introduced to the e& Youth Council, engaging in an open dialogue with e&'s executive leaders during a ‘Jalsa’ session. This was  followed by an inspiring Youth Talks and concluded with a guided tour of the Open Innovation Centre, showcasing e&'s cutting-edge technology, accompanied with a  visit to the autonomous retail store, EASE.

This event provided all participants with valuable insights and a wealth of networking opportunities. They connected with industry leaders, build relationships with fellow youth council members, and gain insights into e&'s dynamic culture.

The e& Youth Council, launched in 2022, is an initiative designed to empower and engage the youth within e& in alignment with the UAE's National Youth Agenda. Following the appointment of the UAE’s first Youth Minister in 2016 and the establishment of the Federal Youth Authority in 2019, the council serves as a platform for young leaders to make their voices heard.

The e& Youth Council has played an integral role in amplifying the voices of young employees and cultivates a strong sense of ownership and responsibility among them. By investing in the energy and creativity of young talent, the council significantly enhances employee engagement and contributes to the company’s innovation and success.

e& UAE has launched a Fibre-To-The-Room (FTTR) high-speed internet solution that supercharges the performance of in-home Wi-Fi networks.

The new service solves the challenges of inconsistent Wi-Fi coverage and speed in large residential spaces, including apartments and villas, serving a variety of customer needs. Additionally, Fibre to the Room (FTTR)  is an ideal solution for smart homes, gamers, and other tech-dependent users who require high-speed internet connections with the lowest possible latency to ensure peak performance.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: “Fibre to the Room (FTTR) is a significant leap forward in fast Wi-Fi for homes, and we're excited to bring it to UAE residents. By bringing fibre optic connectivity directly to every room, we’re ensuring every home is a hub for work, entertainment, and limitless possibilities.”

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer, e& UAE, said: “High-speed connectivity is the cornerstone of our vision to create a digitally empowered future for all. The new Fibre-To-The-Room solution is a transformative step towards realising this vision, empowering our customers to unlock the full potential of next-generation performance and capabilities at home.”

This innovative service tackles the challenge of Wi-Fi coverage in large spaces. Unlike traditional Wi-Fi solutions that can struggle with distance and interference, Fibre to the Room (FTTR) delivers fibre optic connectivity directly to each room. This bypasses the limitations of Ethernet cables and ensures robust, high-speed internet access throughout the entire home, guaranteeing a seamless and uninterrupted connection in every room.

e& UAE’s Fibre-To-The-Room service is available for a monthly rental fee of AED 129 (excluding 5% VAT) on a 24-month contract.  For users with very large homes, multiple Fibre-To-The-Room units can be ordered to serve the same premises seamlessly.

e& enterprise today announced the launch of its Utility Co-Pilot, an innovative utility virtual assistant, now available in the Microsoft Marketplace. This cutting-edge solution leverages Generative AI (GenAI) and advanced data management techniques to revolutionise utility management, offering unprecedented efficiency, transparency, and customer satisfaction.

The e& enterprise Utility Co-Pilot seamlessly integrates AI into existing infrastructure, providing access to underutilised data from Smart Grid implementations. By harnessing the power of AI and data, the Utility Co-Pilot enhances operations, streamlines reporting, and empowers key departments with real-time assistance for utility management.

Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise commented “By combining our extensive domain knowledge with Microsoft's advanced AI innovations, we are ushering in a new era of smart utility management. This robust solution will enable our clients to fully leverage their data, leading to more efficient operations, improved customer experiences, and sustainable growth. We are opening the door for utilities to embrace the limitless possibilities of generative AI and redefine the future of their industry."

Key features of the Utility Co-Pilot include advanced tools that streamline operations and enhance decision-making across departments. It helps transform data into comprehensive reports for informed management decisions. Supported by a team of data scientists, data engineers, prompt engineers, domain experts, and business leaders, e& enterprise have utilised the Microsoft’s OpenAI services and Azure services to create a scalable, trustworthy GenAI solution for various business use cases.

The system offers real-time updates and collaboration, allowing immediate updates on applications, operations, and maintenance, improving visibility and response time. This enables efficient tracking, monitoring, and process management. Powered by GenAI, the Utility Co-Pilot improves efficiency and productivity by automating repetitive tasks, integrating systems, and enhancing communication.

The Utility Co-Pilot brings the power of AI-driven insights to business users, field personnel, and operations specialists, enabling them to seamlessly perform tasks and better serve their customers.

As for end-users, the Utility Co-Pilot offers benefits such as usage alerts, 24/7 availability, outage reporting, energy-saving tips, personalised experiences, billing control, and a feedback loop for service enhancements. Usage alerts keep customers informed with daily and weekly consumption notifications for data-driven choices. It also provides energy tips to help customers cut costs and optimise usage.

Smiles, the UAE’s premier everyday rewards SuperApp, has launched a unified subscription model that combines its Unlimited Free Delivery and Unlimited Buy-One-Get-One subscriptions into one super subscription.

Called "Smiles Unlimited," the new subscription model is the only super subscription that unifies all the benefits of unlimited free food and grocery delivery, service fee waiver for home services, and unlimited Buy-One-Get-One on thousands of brands into one subscription package. Priced at just AED 29 per month with a 14 day free trial period, the service saves over AED 300 per month on delivery fees, service fees and Buy-One-Get-One deals, rewarding back more than 10 times.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: “Building on Smiles' position as the UAE's leading everyday rewards SuperApp, we are excited to introduce Smiles Unlimited, our new super subscription that enhances customers’ everyday lives. This offering goes beyond traditional rewards programmes by consolidating all the benefits our customers love into one convenient package, on top of the earning and redemption of points that are currently available with Smiles. It reaffirms our commitment to being an essential partner, supporting and rewarding people for simply living their lives in the UAE.”

In the UAE's dynamic market, consumers are increasingly focused on maximising their savings while managing multiple subscriptions for essential services. However, managing a fragmented landscape of subscriptions is cumbersome and costly. Smiles Unlimited solves this by introducing a single, convenient package that unifies all these benefits, simplifying subscription management and increasing customers' savings.

As part of its evolution into a full-service lifestyle SuperApp, Smiles enables customers to earn and redeem points for everyday activities like ordering food and groceries, booking home services, dining out, shopping, entertainment, travelling, and much more.

"Reward Your Everyday" underscores Smiles' commitment to enhancing every aspect of daily life and integrating the SuperApp more deeply into the lifestyles of UAE residents by making each interaction convenient and rewarding.

With over five million loyal members across the UAE, Smiles has become a premier lifestyle SuperApp in the region. Backed by an extensive network of over 11,000 restaurants, 500+ grocery stores and pharmacies, 35+ home services and 6,500 brand partners nationwide, members can access a vast selection of everyday essentials and experiences

Smiles further sets itself apart through its uniquely generous rewards structure. Customers can also earn points through their e& UAE bill and recharge payments, co-branded credit card usage, and orders and purchases made through Smiles.

By making rewards truly achievable for everyday living, Smiles delivers unmatched value to customers in every aspect of their lives.

e& today announced its consolidated financial results for the first half of 2024, reporting consolidated revenues of AED 28.3 billion, a year-over-year (YoY) growth of 6 per cent, demonstrating strong performance across all business verticals.

Reflecting the effectiveness of its strategic focus on growth in local and international markets, the group's consolidated net profit grew by 17 per cent to AED 5.5 billion. Furthermore, consolidated EBITDA reached AED 12.9 billion, resulting in a healthy EBITDA margin of 46 per cent.

e&’s robust financial results are driven by its relentless focus on maintaining its growth momentum with a strong commitment to drive innovation while enabling a digital future for customers across its markets. This is further evidenced by the group’s growing subscriber base, with total subscribers reaching 175 million in a significant YoY increase of 6 per cent while the total number of e& UAE subscribers reached 15 million, representing a YoY growth of 5 per cent.

Financial Highlights for H1 2024

(*) At constant exchange rates, revenue increased by 8 per cent and EBITDA increased by 3 per cent year-over-year.

Delivering on its promises of maximising value to its shareholders, e&’s Board of Directors approved an interim dividend of 41.5 fils per share for the first half (January to June) of 2024, in accordance with the new dividend policy that was greenlit by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) earlier this year.

The newly approved dividends policy stipulates an incremental increase of AED 0.03 per share every year for the fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026. 

H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, Chairman, e&, said: “e& showcased remarkable resilience and sustained its upward trajectory in the first half of 2024, achieving consolidated net profits of AED 5.5 billion, representing a year-over-year growth of 17 per cent. This robust performance was driven by our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation”.

“We are proud of the progress made in the first half of 2024, which was bolstered by our recent acquisitions, partnerships, and strategic expansion of our digital services portfolio. These efforts significantly strengthen e&'s position as a leader in digital transformation, providing state-of-the-art solutions to our diverse customer base”.

Reflecting on e&'s growth trajectory and future prospects despite challenges in some of its markets, H.E. Alzaabi commented, "e& remains committed in delivering top-tier services and advanced technologies with a focus on purpose and value. Our ongoing investments in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies position us as a driving force for innovation and growth, making us the preferred partner in advancing the digital economy. With the support and vision of the UAE leadership, we will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the digital landscape and driving socio-economic progress, thereby reinforcing the UAE's status as a global innovation hub".

Hatem Dowidar, Group Chief Executive Officer, e&, said: “e&'s performance in the first half of 2024 highlights our dedication and efforts to foster growth and efficiency while demonstrating resilience and adaptability to the various challenges in some of our markets”.

“e& achieved impressive results with consolidated revenue increasing by 6 per cent to AED 28.3 billion, and consolidated EBITDA rising by 2 per cent year-over-year to AED 12.9 billion. Our success is driven by our relentless pursuit of technological innovation, delivering tangible value to our customers and shareholders. We have embraced advanced and emerging technologies, launching numerous AI-driven initiatives and platforms, underscoring our leadership in digital transformation. Strategic partnerships have enhanced our service portfolio, while we continue to expand our global presence through successful acquisitions”.

“Looking ahead, I am confident that our dedication to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities through technology will pave the way for growth and create a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Despite the challenges in some markets, we will focus on seizing the opportunities ahead. With the unwavering efforts of our teams, we can accelerate our progress, take bold actions to enhance our value proposition, and expand access to connectivity. We are deeply grateful to our customers and shareholders for their continued support and trust as we explore new avenues and achieve new milestones,” added Dowidar.

 Key Operational Highlights

e&

e& was crowned the Fastest Growing Tech Brand and the Most Valuable Brand Portfolio in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), according to the 2024 Brand Finance Global 500 Report in recognition of the group's exceptional performance in increasing the value of its brand portfolio to US$17 billion in 2024, reflecting the confidence of investors and partners in e&, which has also been named the world's Strongest Telecom Brand in the World for 2024 with a score of 89.4 out of 100 on the BSI Index with a leadership rating of AAA. e& was also named a Great Place to Work® by the Great Place to Work Institute in recognition of the company’s efforts to foster a positive, supportive, and engaging work environment for its employees.

e& and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) joined forces to build the world's largest private 5G network for the energy sector. This groundbreaking initiative will revolutionise the industry by enabling blazing-fast data transfer and connectivity across ADNOC's 11,000-square-kilometre operation. This powerful network will empower ADNOC's AI solutions to access remote onshore and offshore sites, driving significant technical advancements and innovation.

e& and Vodafone joined forces to empower other regional and international operators to adapt  to the evolving voice landscape with cross-border managed voice solutions. The group also signed an agreement with Dell Technologies to drive 5G innovation through Dell’s Open Telecom Ecosystem Lab (OTEL) and another with Huawei to build green and energy-efficient networks.

In a major move for the telecom industry, e& and its partners in the Global Telco AI Alliance formed a joint venture in H1 2024. This venture aims to develop cutting-edge Large Language Models (LLMs) specifically designed to revolutionise customer service through advanced AI solutions.

e& Carrier & Wholesale (C&W) has made advancements in accelerating the growth of connectivity with milestone agreements in the subsea cable space with  2Africa subsea cable, the most extensive subsea cable system landing in the UAE to date, making a huge leap forward in positioning the UAE as a global hub for digital connectivity and providing advanced digital infrastructure that supports economic development and innovation.

A collaboration with Ooredoo will introduce the Gulf Gateway Cable (GGC-1), connecting data centres in Abu Dhabi and Doha while facilitating seamless communication and data exchange. In addition, C&W launched the region’s first Smart Connect (Bandwidth on Demand) service, allowing operators to scale their connectivity requirements on the go with unmatched flexibility and control over bandwidth provisioning.

e& joined forces with Telecom Egypt, Indonesia's Telin, and a major unnamed Indian telecom company to develop the ICE IV subsea cable project. This ambitious project aims to connect Southeast Asia and India seamlessly to the Middle East. Additionally, e& has expanded its state-of-the-art Tier III SmartHub network to Abu Dhabi. This expansion strengthens the region's entire digital ecosystem by providing advanced infrastructure.

e& Carrier & Wholesale continued its ascendancy, winning the ‘Edge Innovation of the Year’ Award at the 2024 Data Centre Solutions (DCS) Awards, followed by ‘Middle East Regional Operator of the Year’ and ‘Best Regional Data Center Operator’ at the Carrier Community Global Awards (CCGA). In addition, e& group won top positions in the MMA MENA Smarties Awards for its innovative solutions in customer and user experience and design.

e& UAE

e& cemented its leading position in telecommunications and technology, shattering speed records by achieving the world's fastest data transfer rate of 30.5 Gbps on its live 5G network in the UAE. This breakthrough strengthened the country's reputation as a global hub for digital innovation and reinforced e&'s leadership in 5G technology.

Setting an industry benchmark in the Middle East, e& UAE announced a network upgrade capability that will deliver speeds of up to 50 Gbps. Powered by the successful completion of the Middle East’s first symmetric 50-Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Networks (50G-PON) broadband service, e& UAE is set to accelerate the digital experience for households and businesses.

Further demonstrating its commitment to advancing 5G technology, e& UAE released a comprehensive whitepaper highlighting the transformative potential of 5G networks in driving progress across various sectors and providing the advanced infrastructure needed for the UAE's prosperous digital future.

e& continued to play an integral strategic part in the UAE’s global leadership in Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) penetration, cementing the country’s top position with a penetration rate of 99.3 per cent. e& UAE remains squarely focused on realising the nation's connectivity ambitions, enabling homes and businesses to benefit from the latest high-speed internet services, enhancing productivity, and enriching the customer experience.

Championing innovation, e& UAE partnered with Corning Incorporated to bring cutting-edge Fibre-to-the-Yacht (FTTY) services to the water’s edge at Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi. This collaboration utilises Corning's advanced fibre optic cables to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to all yachts docked there.

e& UAE also collaborated with Nokia to bring Multi-Access Edge Slicing, a first for its network, and also broadened its partnership with Oracle to fuel AI advancements, deploying NVIDIA H100 GPU clusters within e& UAE’s Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) Dedicated Region, located at its data centres.

e& UAE set a new benchmark as the first company outside North America to deploy Microsoft’s Azure Operator Nexus and Azure Operator 5G Core solutions. Continuing its efforts to elevate customer experiences using custom Generative AI (GenAI), e& UAE partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

In a strategic move to enhance global connectivity, e& UAE became the first operator to join Yahsat’s Direct-to-Device (D2D) ecosystem, which brings satellite coverage to standard smartphones.

Spearheading advancements in aerial mobility and autonomous systems across the country, e& UAE announced a partnership with Multi Level Group (MLG) to drive innovation in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and drone development, as well as integrated solutions utilising its leading 5G network and digital expertise. The partnership was revealed in live demonstrations of eVTOL aircraft and drones powered by e& UAE’s 5G network.

Demonstrating its commitment to delivering outstanding customer service, e& UAE continued to drive innovation, expanding its market reach and opening the second AI-powered autonomous telecom store, ‘EASE,’ in Dubai Mall. The self-service telecom store is designed with cutting-edge technology to help customers seamlessly purchase products and services.

e& UAE has successfully implemented AI-driven solutions to enhance customer experience, resulting in over 30 per cent fewer technical calls and a 40 per cent reduction in technician visits.

In a strategic collaboration to foster economic growth, the company partnered with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry to empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), leveraging its expertise in digital technologies to facilitate digital transformation processes for SMEs in Abu Dhabi.

e& UAE brought Copilot for Microsoft M365, the transformative AI tool, to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprises. Copilot is an AI-powered assistant that integrates with various Microsoft 365 applications, seamlessly boosting productivity, creativity, and overall workflow efficiency while extending the data privacy and security of the Microsoft cloud.

Supporting Small and Medium Businesses, e& UAE celebrated business excellence by launching the third edition of its SMB Awards 2024, a benchmark for recognising and celebrating outstanding achievements of SMBs in the UAE.

Demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility and digital inclusion, e& launched an AI-powered browser extension called "Wider Web" to support an autism-friendly browsing experience. The free-to-use browser extension empowers autistic users and caters for their needs by offering a customisable, sensory-friendly web-browsing experience.

Marking an important step towards digitised education in the country, e& UAE launched its groundbreaking AI-powered platform, GoLearning. The e-learning platform redefines the learning experience, offering a vast library of over 10,000 accredited courses, including a generous selection of more than 4,000 free courses focused on professional and personal development. GoLearning empowers everyone to pursue endless learning opportunities and skill development, focusing on maintaining the highest quality content.

In its continuous effort to support young Emirati talents and empower them with opportunities in the private sector, e& held the 2024 edition of its virtual coding camp to enable students and teachers with the essential technical skills to navigate and succeed in today's dynamic digital world. It also announced the opening of applications for the sixth cohort of its AI Graduate Programme, which is set to commence in September 2024.

In recognition of its efforts to provide a supportive work environment for employees, e& UAE attained the highest position in Brand Finance’s inaugural Employer Brand Report 2024 ranking as the Top Global Telecom Employer, marking yet another important milestone in its track record.

e& life

e& life, the business pillar of e& that enriches people’s digital lives, continued to embrace its vision of simplifying its services, releasing the updated version of the e& money app, which became the UAE's number one fintech app in terms of monthly active users. e& money 2.0 now boasts full Arabic language support, making it accessible to a wider audience.

evision, the media and entertainment streaming arm of e& life, continued to enhance and develop its content library to meet the diverse requirements of MENA audiences. In the first half of 2024, evision recorded significant growth, surpassing 5.5 million subscribers. STARZ ON, its ad-supported streaming platform in the Middle East and North Africa, has been a key driver of growth.

The STARZ ON free experience was enhanced with a diverse range of content, including sports, Arabic and Turkish programming with Noor Play, and Mandarin and Korean programming with iQIYI. The strategic partnership with Noor Play also extends to cover a diverse range of premium content across Starzplay, eLife, SwitchTV and other e& platforms

To cater to the sub-continent audience, evision secured exclusive rights to the ICC Cricket World Cup and acquired exclusive rights to exciting Hotstar (Disney Star), Zee, and Viacom 18 content.

evision further solidified its entertainment offerings by signing multi-year deals with major studios including Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM. These deals bring the latest blockbusters, renowned classics, and family favourites from both cinema and television to Starzplay, eLife and Switch TV.

In addition, evision strengthened its sports portfolio by acquiring exclusive rights to UFC for the MENA region.

 e& enterprise

e& enterprise remains a powerhouse for digital transformation in the private and public sectors. Its innovative tech solutions and enhanced digital services continue to empower businesses across industries to achieve their goals and accelerate growth.

e& enterprise marked a significant step towards regional digital transformation leadership. It expanded its global footprint by acquiring GlassHouse, a leading Turkish provider of managed cloud, business continuity, and SAP infrastructure services. This strategic move grants e& enterprise entry into the pivotal Turkish market, positioning it for significant growth and expansion.

In the first half of 2024, e& enterprise signed two landmark collaboration agreements with Burjeel Holdings, including the launch of a pioneering telemedicine services project and an MoU to transform delivery models and redefine healthcare in the UAE and beyond. This strategic collaboration represents a transformative approach to healthcare that prioritises accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability across the region.

Pioneering a new approach to digital payments, e& enterprise forged a strategic partnership with Fils. This partnership establishes a sustainable digital payments model, empowering companies to provide customers with greater transparency.  Companies can now share the carbon footprint associated with each transaction, along with the option to offset emissions through reliable methods.

With Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (ADSSA), e& enterprise developed the "House Visits and Interviews Management System." marking a significant milestone in ADSSA's digital transformation journey. The system streamlines social workers' field visits, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and impact of social support services for low-income families in Abu Dhabi.

e& enterprise continues to champion digital innovation in the region. Through a strategic partnership with SAS, it brings cutting-edge AI solutions and advanced data analytics to businesses in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This partnership empowers companies across various sectors to leverage the power of AI and data for operational improvements and informed decision-making. e& enterprise also signed an agreement with Dubai Public Prosecution (DPP) to develop the world's first central digital system for remote investigation and litigation, streamlining the justice system and enhancing its efficiency and speed.

Reaffirming its commitment to accelerating Saudi Arabia's digital transformation, e& enterprise entered a strategic partnership with the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and the International Data Corporation (IDC). This project focused on analysing the Kingdom's current digital landscape, e& enterprise's investments in the region, and its alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Creating jobs and boosting customer experience, e& enterprise opened a new state-of-the-art Contact and Customer Experience Centre in Riyadh equipped with the latest technologies to deliver exceptional customer service. The new facility is designed to support Saudisation and is expected to create over 1,500 new local job opportunities across administrative, technical, and specialist roles.

e& enterprise partnered with NICE to bring cutting-edge customer service solutions and the Contact Centre as a Service (CCaaS) platform to businesses in the UAE.

e& enterprise has joined forces with Payit, the leading e-wallet from First Abu Dhabi Bank, to streamline digital payment processes for businesses across the UAE. This strategic partnership leverages e& enterprise's Payment as a Service (PaaS) platform to increase customer satisfaction and boost digital payment adoption rates.

Demonstrating its commitment to innovation, e& enterprise unveiled haifin, the new brand identity for its leading blockchain-based trade finance platform. Previously known as UAE Trade Connect, haifin simplifies and facilitates trade across the MENA region.

haifin welcomed three new members to its consortium which included two banks and one fintech, including Sharjah Islamic Bank which became the 14^th bank to join the platform. Haifin is now ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified and has 18 members including commercial banks, Islamic banks and fintechs.

e& enterprise, in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Company (Daman), has launched a global first – Hayakom, a revolutionary digital service chain for the health insurance sector. This innovative platform aims to significantly enhance customer service experiences within the UAE's health insurance landscape.

e& international

e& international marked a significant step forward in its global expansion during the first half of 2024.

Uzbekistan's Perfectum joined e& international's Partner Market Programme in a strategic move designed to accelerate digital transformation within the country's telecommunications sector. The programme offers Perfectum access to e& international's extensive expertise and cutting-edge solutions. By leveraging this partnership, Perfectum can fuel business growth, drive innovation across industries, and play a key role in Uzbekistan's digital future.

PTCL launched a new combined UPTCL app that covers PTCL, Ufone, and Flash Fibre in one app. The app is the first platform of its kind in Pakistan that serves as a single digital channel for wireless and fixed line customers to manage their connections, profiles, payments, and more.

e& Egypt launched e& Neo, in conjunction with Mashreq Bank , the first digital banking services in Egypt.

e& Egypt received the “Business Excellence Award - Egypt 2024”, earning special recognition for outstanding Culture and People Practices.

Onic, e&’s digital brand in Pakistan, secured a double victory at the Pakistan Digital Awards, clinching Best Mobile App and Digital Ambassador of the Year.

Etisalat Afghanistan acquired 15 MHz of spectrum in the 1800 and 2600 bands, holding the largest spectrum in the market.

e& capital

e& capital, the investment arm of e&, has become a major player in the Middle Eastern venture capital (VC) ecosystem. It has invested nearly US$ 150 million in startups that are shaping the future of technology in the MENA region and the world.

e& capital’s investments cut across various exciting technology-led industries, including AI, SaaS, edtech, healthtech, telecommunications, and entertainment, strategically complementing the group's wide range of services. Key investments include Ikigai, an AI platform developed from MiT research that delivers highly accurate forecasts and time series predictions; Airalo, the global leader in travel eSIMs; and Traydstream, a platform digitising and automating the trade finance industry globally.

e& UAE has received TM Forum’s coveted Platinum Open API certification, making it the first telecommunications operator in the MENA region to attain this level of accreditation for 20 unique APIs.

This certification is designed to foster enhanced connectivity, interoperability, and system portability across the global telecommunications sector. e& UAE has consistently led the way in embracing these standards, propelling the industry toward a more streamlined and innovative Open Digital Architecture (ODA).

Khaled Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer, e& UAE, said: “Achieving the TMF Platinum Certification is a testament to our strategic vision and operational excellence. Integrating TM Forum Open API has significantly streamlined our operations, minimised manual errors, and boosted the quality of our services, positioning e& UAE as a pioneer in technological advancements within the telecom sector.”

e& UAE launched a state-of-the-art Developer Portal, that will provide free access to a suite of well-defined, standardised, and interoperable APIs. The portal serves as a central hub for digital innovators to discover, explore, and utilise an extensive range of APIs in service management, customer management, product catalogue, billing, and network exposure. It fosters an ecosystem where developers and startups can thrive, creating cutting-edge solutions that drive the future of connectivity.

The certification underscores e& UAE's commitment to providing standardised APIs that facilitate seamless integration and optimise the development and operational processes of complex services.

Since initiating its adoption of TM Forum Open API standards in late May 2023, e& UAE has rapidly achieved 20 unique certifications in just 12 months, culminating in its Platinum Tier certification—an essential step towards the elite Diamond Tier.

George Glass, Chief Technology Officer, TM Forum, said: “As the global telco industry looks to reignite growth, industry standard Open APIs enable the seamless connectivity, interoperability and portability needed to streamline operations, speed up time to value and accelerate the deployment of new products and services. Achieving Platinum Tier status for TM Forum Open API certification is a testament to e& UAE's commitment to building a scalable and future-proof technology stack that will enable it to realise its strategic vision built on ODA.”

This achievement is a critical component of e& UAE’s broader ODA journey, which focuses on system decoupling and application simplification. By adopting TM Forum Open APIs, e& UAE not only ensures easier integration and enhanced interoperability among its systems but also drives innovation by facilitating secure, standardised access to data and functionalities. This milestone is a significant leap in e& UAE’s ongoing digital transformation, setting new benchmarks for excellence and innovation in the region.

e& UAE has received TM Forum’s coveted Platinum Open API certification, making it the first telecommunications operator in the MENA region to attain this level of accreditation for 20 unique APIs.

This certification is designed to foster enhanced connectivity, interoperability, and system portability across the global telecommunications sector. e& UAE has consistently led the way in embracing these standards, propelling the industry toward a more streamlined and innovative Open Digital Architecture (ODA).

Khaled Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer, e& UAE, said: “Achieving the TMF Platinum Certification is a testament to our strategic vision and operational excellence. Integrating TM Forum Open API has significantly streamlined our operations, minimised manual errors, and boosted the quality of our services, positioning e& UAE as a pioneer in technological advancements within the telecom sector.”

e& UAE launched a state-of-the-art Developer Portal, that will provide free access to a suite of well-defined, standardised, and interoperable APIs. The portal serves as a central hub for digital innovators to discover, explore, and utilise an extensive range of APIs in service management, customer management, product catalogue, billing, and network exposure. It fosters an ecosystem where developers and startups can thrive, creating cutting-edge solutions that drive the future of connectivity.

The certification underscores e& UAE's commitment to providing standardised APIs that facilitate seamless integration and optimise the development and operational processes of complex services.

Since initiating its adoption of TM Forum Open API standards in late May 2023, e& UAE has rapidly achieved 20 unique certifications in just 12 months, culminating in its Platinum Tier certification—an essential step towards the elite Diamond Tier.

George Glass, Chief Technology Officer, TM Forum, said: “As the global telco industry looks to reignite growth, industry standard Open APIs enable the seamless connectivity, interoperability and portability needed to streamline operations, speed up time to value and accelerate the deployment of new products and services. Achieving Platinum Tier status for TM Forum Open API certification is a testament to e& UAE's commitment to building a scalable and future-proof technology stack that will enable it to realise its strategic vision built on ODA.”

This achievement is a critical component of e& UAE’s broader ODA journey, which focuses on system decoupling and application simplification. By adopting TM Forum Open APIs, e& UAE not only ensures easier integration and enhanced interoperability among its systems but also drives innovation by facilitating secure, standardised access to data and functionalities. This milestone is a significant leap in e& UAE’s ongoing digital transformation, setting new benchmarks for excellence and innovation in the region.

e& UAE announced the winners of its third edition of ‘SMB Awards 2024’ celebrating the outstanding talent and innovation within the Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) in the UAE. Held at the prestigious Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai, the gala ceremony highlighted the exemplary accomplishments of SMBs across 14 distinct categories.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB of e& UAE, said: "The SMB Awards celebrate the energy and success within our industry. Every organisation we recognised exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience that drives the UAE’s economic growth. As we navigate an increasingly competitive landscape, SMBs will continue to play a vital role in shaping the nation’s dynamic and forward-thinking future. e& UAE is committed to supporting and enabling their continuous success, empowering them to set bold goals and embrace new challenges.”

SMB Awards 2024 proudly recognised outstanding businesses across various sectors, with winners including Little Diamond Nursery (Emirati Business Award), FURCHILD Food Stuff Supply (Women in Business Award), Xoom Delivery Services (Sustainability Award), Emirates Cancer Society (Social Impact Award), Qorden AI (Artificial Intelligence Award), Reliable Robotics (Robotics and Automation Award), Tawasal (Technology Award), MASSAED (Construction & Real Estate Award), Ahalia Medical Group (Healthcare Award), V Perfumes (Retail Award), Maristo Hospitality (Hospitality Award), MarineHub Fishing Equipment (E-Commerce Award), and Friends of Cancer Patients (Media & Marketing Award).

Finally, the highly coveted SMB of the Year title was claimed by Black Tulip Flowers.

This year, SMB Awards witnessed an overwhelming response, with around 300 nominations from diverse sectors across UAE. Each submission was meticulously evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges consisting of industry leaders and experts from various fields; including H.E Alia Abdulla Al Mazrouei, CEO of Khalifa Fund; Marwan Al Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Science Park; Nasser Al Madani, Chief Advisor at Dubai Integrated Economic Zone; Suhail Bin Tarraf, Chief Operating Officer of First Abu Dhabi Bank; T J Wilson, Executive Director at Aster DM Healthcare; V. Nandakumar, Director of Marketing and Communications at LuLu Group International; and Yousuf Ahmad Lootah, CEO of Corporate Strategy & Performance Department at Dubai Economy & Tourism (DET).

The rigorous judging process was managed and audited by Kreston Menon, a leading audit, business consultancy, and accounting firm affiliated with Kreston Global.

SMB Awards 2024 underscores e& UAE's dedication to fostering innovation and excellence within the SMB sector. By celebrating these outstanding achievements, e& UAE aims to inspire businesses and entrepreneurs to strive for excellence and compete on regional and global stages, ultimately attaining long-term success and contributing to the UAE's vision for a diverse and resilient economy.

e& Group has expressed its disappointment with the Court of Appeal of Casablanca's decision on 3 July 2024, which rejected the appeal filed by Maroc Telecom “MT”, a subsidiary of e&. This decision upholds the Commercial Court of Rabat's ruling from 29 January 2024, mandating MT to pay 6.368 billion Moroccan dirhams (approximately USD 645 million) to Wana Corporate for alleged anti-competitive practices.

As a major shareholder in MT, with a 53% stake, e& Group remains confident in its continuous compliance with all regulatory laws and regulations across its operating markets. The group firmly believes in the validity of Maroc Telecom's legal position and intends to pursue all available legal avenues to appeal this ruling and protect e&'s investments in Maroc Telecom. e& assures its shareholders that this court decision will not impact the consolidated results of e& Group for the second quarter of 2024 or subsequent periods, due to adequate coverage of international regulatory risks.

H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, Chairman of e& Group, stated: "It is unfortunate that while global capital is looking to leverage the transformative power of technology to enhance digital infrastructure, smart government services, and digital solutions for people, a challenging regulatory environment negatively affects the future outlook of our investments in Morocco."

Hatem Dowidar, CEO of e& Group, added: "e& Group is committed to fully complying with the laws in the markets where we operate. Empowering communities digitally has been a cornerstone of e&’s success over the past decades. We affirm that driving the digital future requires constructive cooperation between service providers, regulators, and legislators to foster the desired development of communities and individuals."

Hatem Dowidar also emphasised that all options are on the table regarding e&'s investment in MT due to the repeated setbacks caused by regulatory penalties, legal judgments, and resolutions that limit Maroc Telecom’s ability to compete in the market. Over the past few years, this has cost MT more than MAD 12 billion (more than USD 1.2 billion) in penalties — one of the highest in the telecom sector worldwide — impeding Maroc Telecom’s future investments.

Early careers initiative builds leadership principles, digitalisation, and AI skills

e& attracted students from across the UAE of different academic levels in its early careers initiative ‘Bidayati’ giving them a unique opportunity to gain practical grounding in leadership principles and next-generation fields like AI.

By empowering the youth through knowledge sharing and skills development initiatives like Bidayati, e& equips tomorrow’s leaders with the tools they need to kick-start their careers in the digital age. This fosters innovation and ensures a prepared workforce for the evolving digital economy.

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “The main asset in any organisation’s growth is its people, and at e&, we are dedicated to nurturing a digitally fluent workforce. Through innovative initiatives like Bidayati, we demonstrate our commitment to equipping the youth with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in this rapidly evolving digital landscape. This programme is a crucial platform for the next generation to actively contribute and leverage the opportunities within this dynamic environment.”

Meaning 'My beginning' in Arabic, e& has welcomed more than 130 trainees to the Bidayati programme  as it seeks to develop the next generation of technological talents. The programme was open to a broad range of students, including those studying at the high school level and diplomas, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees at the tertiary level. By providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge, e& aims to empower these young individuals to make meaningful contributions to the tech industry and help shape the future of innovation.

The Bidayati programme provides trainees with practical leadership and AI courses and hands-on experience developing innovative, AI-based solutions for real-life use cases. It was open to all nationalities and offers on-the-job training, online and in-person webinars, and learning sessions. The programme lasted between four and 16 weeks.

Bidayati follows several e&-led initiatives which drive skills development and nurture a future-ready workforce, including the Ministry of Education-endorsed virtual coding camp, and its partnership with Code.org to promote computer science education for the next generation of students and academics.

e& UAE has successfully deployed 50G PON (50-Gigabit-capable passive optical networks) technology in live network. 

50G PON technology represents a significant leap from the previous GPON and XGS-PON technologies, which have been fundamental in delivering broadband services globally. It aims to increase internet speeds up to 50 Gigabits per second (Gbps) substantially, enabling faster streaming of high-definition videos, quicker downloads and uploads, and a more responsive online experience. Furthermore, it supports the growing number of smart devices at homes, from smart TVs to connected appliances, ensuring everything runs smoothly without interruptions.

Marwan Bin Shakar, Senior Vice President Access Network Development, e& UAE, said, "At e&, we are committed to evolving and meeting the ever-growing demands for faster, more reliable, and widespread connectivity. With the deployment of 50G PON technology, we are leading the charge in transforming our network infrastructure and being future ready."

e& UAE’s deployment of 50G PON is among the pioneering initiatives globally, reflecting the UAE’s leading position in telecommunications and connectivity. While most markets are still in the process of rolling out 10G PON technology or are in the early stages of adopting 50G PON, this live network deployment positions the country with a significant lead.

“As we transition into an era of hyper-connectivity and digital transformation, 50G PON technology is beyond an upgrade—it's a revolution. It redefines the possibilities of fibre optic communication, paving the way for ultra-high-speed internet access across all sectors and industries. This advancement positions us at the forefront of global innovation, ready to unlock the future of connectivity,” added Bin Shakar.

50G PON technology brings a wide array of benefits. For consumers, it means seamless streaming of high-resolution content, faster downloads and uploads, and a more responsive online experience. Additionally, businesses will benefit from quicker data transfers, enhanced cloud-based applications, and robust support for bandwidth-intensive operations like video conferencing, remote collaboration, and data backups.

• GoLearning powered by e& offers eLearning platform with 10,000+ certified courses, including 4,000+ free courses
• Users can access the industry-leaders courses from renowned institutions in business, languages, strategy, technology and AI
• Powered by an AI engine, GoLearning will lead innovation in personalised learning for the region

e& UAE today announced the launch of GoLearning, an innovative and revolutionary eLearning platform that marks an important step towards digitised education in the UAE.

GoLearning offers a comprehensive catalogue of more than 10,000 courses focusing on professional and personal development topics through partnerships with global EdTech leaders like Coursera, edX, and Busuu.

The platform caters to diverse learning styles and goals, powered by advanced AI algorithms for a personalised experience.

GoLearning can be accessed by anyone from their desktop or mobile to enjoy + 10,000 courses and certifications from renowned institutions and industry-leaders. The platform includes a special focus on AI and technology courses, providing users with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

With the freemium model, users can access over 4,000 courses completely free, pay for individual premium courses or subscribe to one of the packages starting from AED 25, with the flexibility to cancel their subscription whenever they choose.

Khaled El Khouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: “We are excited to launch GoLearning, showcasing our commitment to provide innovative global EdTech solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. GoLearning represents a unique initiative aimed at bridging the gap in the eLearning market by offering a diverse range of courses from international institutions and universities on a single platform. This helps to ensure that learners have access to a one-stop-shop for a comprehensive range of educational courses.”

In addition, GoLearning offers a variety of courses for children, ensuring that learners of all ages have access to valuable educational resources. GoLearning's competitively priced subscription packages present a more economical alternative to direct purchases from its partner platforms. At a monthly fee of AED 25 , the 'Languages Package' offers expert-led courses in 14 languages, adhering to CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) standards, while the 'Starter Package' provides key digital skills courses with certificates from prestigious universities like Johns Hopkins, all at AED 99 per month. .

Kais Zribi, Coursera’s General Manager for the MEA region, said: “In today’s rapidly changing economy, it’s more important than ever for individuals to cultivate creativity, increase productivity, and thrive in their careers. We are thrilled to partner with e& UAE to offer some of our top courses through the GoLearning platform. These courses, offered by leading universities like Duke University and companies such as IBM, Google, and Meta, will provide learners with the business, technology, and data science skills needed to upskill and succeed in the new digital economy. Our commitment to education and professional development remains unwavering, and we look forward to supporting even more learners in achieving their personal and career goals.”

Anant Agarwal, Chief Academic Officer, 2U and Founder, edX said: “Online education has the unmatched power to democratise knowledge, bridging borders and breaking barriers. By joining e& UAE’s eLearning initiative, we're unlocking a universe of opportunities for learners through world-class programmes on edX on topics from AI and computer science to leadership and sustainability, from top institutions and industry leaders worldwide. In today's interconnected world, platforms like GoLearning become crucial bridges, connecting global talent to high-quality educational resources. Through this collaboration, we aim to propel learners toward rewarding careers, nurture their most transformative ideas, and be the spark that ignites global innovation.”

GoLearning has set its ambitions to become a leading player in the eLearning industry with its freemium model, personalised learning paths, and partnerships with global leaders. This reflects e& UAE’s commitment to providing a world-class learning experience. This launch is just one step in our ongoing journey to revolutionise education and provide continuous learning opportunities for everyone.

For further information or to sign up for courses, visit www.golearning.ae.

e&, the global technology group, and Ericsson have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch ‘Excelerate&’, a 12-month programme aimed at developing the technological skills of Emirati talents.

e&’s top youthful Emirati talents have been selected to participate in the Excelerate& programme. The programme focuses on building essential knowledge of trending technologies such as 5G, data science, and cloud. Led by expert instructors, it aims to cultivate the knowledge and expertise required to develop innovative in-house solutions, transforming trainees into subject matter experts across current and emerging technologies.

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “e& has a longstanding commitment to Emiratisation and our partnership with Ericsson to launch Excelerate& is another leap forward in building the next generation of Emirati tech leaders. We're relentlessly committed to upskilling these bright minds, empowering them to lead the UAE’s digital future. This collaboration is a springboard for their success, providing comprehensive training and ensuring a smooth integration into e&’s innovative culture and the broader tech sector.”

Ekow Nelson, Vice President of Ericsson MEA, Head of Global Customer Unit, e&, said: “Ericsson is proud to be participating in this programme to develop young Emirati talent and to contribute to the development of human capital in the UAE. For nearly 50 years we have been part of the fabric of the UAE’s technological evolution. The Excelerate& Program is the latest chapter in our storied collaboration with e& and represents a step-change to develop the next generation of technology leaders and equip them with the knowledge, skills and global best practices to enable them excel in an increasingly competitive world. Together with e&, we are not just building networks; we are building a sustainable digital future and enabling a generation of problem-solvers equipped with the skills to tackle global challenges through technology.”

Excelerate& follows the launch of several programmes geared towards driving the Emiratisation agenda at e&. Its partnership with the National Programme for Emiratisation (NAFIS), an initiative by the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC), exemplifies the company’s commitment to attracting and empowering UAE talents.

Building on a strong foundation of 53 per cent Emirati talent in its UAE workforce, e& aims to enhance the presence of Emiratis in the technology sector, ensuring they actively contribute to and lead the progress and growth of the UAE. In addition to having one of the highest Emiratisation rates within its industry, senior management positions at e& are held by over 61 per cent of Emirati citizens. Notably, Emirati women comprise 79 per cent of the total female employees, marking the highest percentage in the company's history.

e& fosters a positive, supportive, and engaging work environment by pioneering next-generation innovations and driving positive changes for its talent. The company is nurturing a future-ready workforce through various upskilling and reskilling initiatives like the AI Graduate Programme, CitizenX Programme for boosting skillsets, License to Lead, and Group Organisational Leadership Development (GOLD).

Leading the way in employer branding and talent development in UAE, e& recently attained the highest position in Brand Finance’s inaugural Employer Brand Report 2024 with its UAE entity ranking as the Top Global Telecoms Employer.

• AI Graduate Programme nurtures future leaders of tomorrow to drive the digital future
•  12-month programme equips Emirati talents with skills to become future AI leaders

e& announced the opening of applications for the sixth cohort of its AI Graduate Programme, commencing in September 2024. Emirati university graduates from all fields are invited to apply via LinkedIn.

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “As we drive technological progress and Emiratisation, the AI Graduate Programme embodies e&'s commitment to a future powered by innovation and shaped by Emirati talent. We are proud to support the UAE's efforts to elevate Emiratis’ involvement and long-term future within the workforce while fostering diversity and creating opportunities for all. For university graduates, this programme is a launchpad to a full-time AI career within e&."

The exclusive AI Graduate Programme is expanding this year, offering over 30 new seats to nurture the next generation of AI leaders through a deep dive into practical learning, cutting-edge AI and emerging technologies, and a strong leadership foundation. Designed to immerse Emirati graduates in technology, cybersecurity, AI, big data, and analytics, the elite 12-month programme equips and empowers trainees with the skills and knowledge to become future leaders in the field.

Programme applicants are selected via challenging ‘HackAI’ and ‘ThinkAI’ assessments, in which they are required to deliver a functional case study and present solutions to the business. The programme gives successful candidates the opportunity to work on real-world AI projects, providing the next generation of leaders with authentic learning experiences that replicate the skills required of tomorrow’s digital business pioneers.

Divided into two phases, the programme offers Emirati graduates hands-on learning across AI technologies, machine learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), big data and analytics, and cybersecurity. Graduates also have the opportunity to deepen their soft skills in communication and decision-making, emotional intelligence, and leadership development. Each graduate receives a personal development plan, mentoring, coaching, and regular feedback.

The AI Graduate Programme was designed in collaboration with leading educational partners such as Udacity, Alliance, Harvard Business Review, MIT, LinkedIn, and Udemy. Since launching in 2021, it has trained more than 200 future AI leaders and is part of several e&-led initiatives geared towards driving the Emiratisation agenda.

Building on a strong foundation of 53 per cent Emirati talent in its UAE workforce, e& aims to enhance the presence of Emiratis in the technology sector, ensuring they actively contribute to and lead the progress and growth of the UAE. In addition to having one of the highest Emiratisation rates within its industry, senior management positions at e& are held by over 61 per cent of Emirati citizens. Notably, Emirati women comprise 79 per cent of the total female employees, marking the highest percentage in the company's history.

e& has called on candidates to apply to join the sixth cohort of the AI Graduate Programme through its LinkedIn page. The AI Graduate Programme seeks talented individuals with a strong academic foundation. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from a top institution accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education, completed within the past two years. A minimum GPA of 2.8 is required and relevant professional experience of up to 2 years is an added advantage.

• Acquisition entails 100 per cent ownership of GlassHouse
• GlassHouse to bolster e& enterprise’s cloud services portfolio and boost its SAP capabilities

e& enterprise, the digital transformation vertical of e&, today announced 100 per cent acquisition of GlassHouse, a leading Türkiye-based provider of managed cloud, business continuity and SAP Infrastructure services. This landmark move underscores e& enterprise’s dedication to expand its global footprint to Türkiye and enhance its digital transformation capabilities.

The acquisition of Glasshouse is a decisive step in e& enterprise’s journey towards becoming a regional leader in end-to-end digital transformation, establishing Türkiye as a key new market. This expansion follows the company's successful market entries into Saudi Arabia in 2019 and Egypt in 2023, reinforcing its position as a formidable player in the regional digital transformation market.

Established in 2004, GlassHouse Technologies is a leading provider of managed cloud, data backup, business continuity, and SAP infrastructure services. With a team of over 150 employees and offices in Türkiye, South Africa, and Qatar, GlassHouse serves more than 2,000 enterprises, including nine of the top ten banks in Türkiye. Its capabilities extend to on-premise backup and managed services, private sovereign cloud solutions, customer private cloud management, and SAP professional services. As a trusted partner for industry giants like Dell Technologies, and SAP, GlassHouse delivers unparalleled expertise and support.

Glasshouse’s acquisition centres on key pillars of e& enterprise’s strategy of strengthening capabilities, adding vertical expertise, and expanding into high-growth markets. The acquisition reinforces our capabilities in private cloud and managed services, and also bolsters our overall value proposition, with the addition of SAP capabilities and vertical expertise in financial services segment to e& enterprise portfolio.

Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise, said: “Following our expansions into Saudi Arabia and Egypt, this acquisition underscores our commitment to entering high-growth markets and advancing our cloud innovations and services as we aim to become a MENA leader in end-to-end digital solutions.  Türkiye”, `s dynamic market offers tremendous potential, and integrating Glasshouse into our portfolio will significantly enhances our capabilities.”

Alp Bağrıaçık, CEO, Glasshouse, said: “It has been great working with Mediterra Private Equity to build GlassHouse into Türkiye’s leading IT infrastructure service company over the last 6 years. As we become part of the e& enterprise family, we will continue to serve our customers with our world class managed cloud capabilities. Being part of the e& enterprise family will allow us to benefit greatly from expanded portfolio resources as well as better geographic reach. We look forward to this new chapter of our journey.”

e& enterprise is committed to maximising value through comprehensive solutions in cybersecurity, cloud, Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI). By undertaking large-scale projects, e& enterprise drives the digital transformation of governments, large-scale enterprises, and corporations, fostering innovation and growth in the digital age.

• Microsoft research finds 79% of business leaders agreeing that their company needs to adopt AI to stay competitive.
• Copilot for Microsoft 365 unlocks productivity and unleashes creativity, while benefitting from security provided by the trusted Microsoft cloud.
• e& UAE offers expert guidance, seamless integrations, and round-the-clock support

e& UAE today announced it will bring Copilot for Microsoft M365, the transformative AI tool, to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprises. Copilot is an AI-powered assistant that integrates with various Microsoft 365 applications, seamlessly boosting productivity, creativity, and overall workflow efficiency, while extending the data privacy and security of the Microsoft cloud.

As a certified partner of Copilot for Microsoft M365 in the UAE, e& UAE offers businesses expert guidance, seamless integrations, and round-the-clock support, ensuring continuity. e& UAE offers a one-stop service, including the convenience of a single invoice and consultative sales support through its specialised team.

Oscar Garcia, Senior Vice President of Business Marketing and Product Innovation, e& UAE, said: “We are committed to driving the growth and success of businesses across the UAE. Innovative solutions, such as Microsoft Copilot, are designed to accelerate their digital transformation, amplify employee productivity, and optimise operational efficiency.

““Microsoft’s Copilot for M365 is an AI-powered productivity tool that is set to revolutionise the way businesses operate. By harnessing the power of generative AI, Copilot empowers enterprises of all sizes and across multiple sectors to enhance their productivity and efficiency across a large number of use cases, from email management to meeting facilitation, learning and training, workflow simplification, accessibility enhancements among others.”

Additionally, workshops and webinars are being conducted in collaboration with Microsoft to demonstrate how Copilot can boost productivity and drive business success.

Yvonne Chebib, Global Partner Solutions lead, Microsoft UAE, said: “AI tools like Microsoft Copilot can greatly enhance the productivity and efficiency of employees, but they also require the right skills and mindset to leverage them effectively. Business leaders need to adopt a more agile approach to skilling their workforce and enabling them to use AI in a strategic and secure way. Otherwise, they risk missing out on the full potential of AI and the benefits it can bring to their organization such as enhanced cybersecurity and data privacy.”

Microsoft’s Copilot for M365 is an AI-powered productivity tool that streamlines workflow, document creation, and data analysis. It integrates with Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams, and automates repetitive tasks, provides intelligent insights, and fosters collaboration. Copilot also captures and summarises meeting minutes, provides personalised learning, and improves work quality and productivity. According to Microsoft, 77 per cent of employees did not want to give up using Copilot, showing its transformative impact in the modern workplace.

Microsoft Copilot is available for AED1,323 per year: https://www.etisalat.ae/en/smb/marketplace/productivity/microsoft-copilot.html.

• e& UAE is the Top Telecoms Employer Brand in Brand Finance rankings
• e& ranked 16^th in the Top 20 employer brands across all categories in 16 countries
• Achievement reflects the broader reputation of UAE as a global talent hub

e&, the global technology group, attained the highest position in Brand Finance’s inaugural Employer Brand Report 2024 with its UAE entity ranking as the Top Global Telecoms Employer.

The group also secured the 16^th spot among the Top 20 Employer Brands across measured employer brands across financial services, telco, media, and tech (TMT), oil, gas, and energy, professional services, retail, automotive, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Ali Al Mansoori, Group Chief People Officer, e&, said: “This recognition as an employer of choice reflects the incredible dedication and passion of our people, who are our greatest assets. It also reaffirms our commitment to cultivating a unified company culture where every employee is empowered to think differently, experiment fearlessly, and innovate continuously. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, having a talented workforce is more critical than ever.”

David Haigh, CEO of Brand Finance, said: “Middle Eastern telecom brands are increasingly overtaking their European and American counterparts as desirable places to work. This reflects the career opportunities and exciting technological developments created by consistent, high-quality investment in the Middle East.”

Leading the way in employer branding and talent development in UAE, the group scored highly across several considerations, including as a 'prestigious brand,’ an ‘inspiring vision,' ‘enjoyable and rewarding work,' and a ‘well-managed and governed company.’ e&’s achievement reflects the broader reputation of the UAE as a global talent hub and the preferred destination for people seeking to shape a prosperous future.

“At e&, we are committed to equipping our team with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in the digital age. Our vision is not just to keep pace with change, but to lead it. We are building a resilient, forward-thinking workforce capable of driving our company and our community towards greater heights. Our strategy includes comprehensive training programs, partnerships with educational institutions, and an environment that rewards creativity and bold thinking. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for professional growth and supporting our team as they develop the technological skills and mindset essential for the future,” added Al Mansoori.

The inaugural “Employer Brand Index” report showcases the world’s top brands with global and regional league tables. The research-driven study is the first of its kind, measuring internal and external perceptions of employer brands from 16 countries. The Index is derived from responses from an anonymous survey of the public across various industries conducted via independent online panels.

The Brand Finance 2024 Employer Brand Index follows the release in January of the global brand rankings in which e& UAE was rated the strongest telecom brand globally (AAA rating) and the strongest brand in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) across all categories.

Brand Finance is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. For more than 25 years, it has been bridging the gap between marketing and finance by evaluating the strength of brands and quantifying their financial value to help organisations of all kinds make strategic decisions. Every year, Brand Finance conducts more than 5,000 brand valuations, supported by original market research, and publishes over 100 reports that rank brands across all sectors and countries. 

e& enterprise is set to host an exclusive one-day conference titled "Unleashing Digital Potential with AI and Smart Data," on 12 June 2024 at the Etihad Museum, Dubai. The event will provide a platform for industry leaders, government officials, and data professionals to discuss the latest advancements and strategies in AI and smart data.

"As we navigate an era of constant technological evolution, AI and smart data are emerging not only as tools, but also as the critical foundations for business insights, informed decisions and future success.” said Salvador Anglada, CEO of e& enterprise. "This conference is a call to action for leaders and innovators across industries to embrace these transformative technologies. By doing so, they can unlock new realms of operational excellence and develop the strategic foresight needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.”

This event is set to provide valuable insights into crucial topics, including strategies for consolidating disparate data sources into a single source of truth, ensuring data integrity and governance in the digital age, the impact of AI on supply chain operations, and AI-driven sentiment analysis, among others. Tailored for CDOs, CTOs, CIOs, CEOs, data scientists, analysts, IT, and data management professionals, the conference will feature a series of high-level panel discussions and specialised sessions.

The rapid growth of data is undeniable, with over 2.5 quintillion bytes of data created globally each day. In the UAE specifically, a recent report from the Dubai Data Establishment highlights that the active use of Big Data analytics in major industries could boost the economy by AED 10 billion annually. Further emphasising this trend, a study by PwC Middle East projects that by 2030, AI is expected to contribute $320 billion to the Middle East economy, representing 11 per cent of the region's GDP.

This substantial impact underscores AI's transformative potential in enhancing operational efficiencies and driving significant economic growth. Consequently, the integration of AI and Smart Data is increasingly seen as a strategic imperative for businesses and governments alike, aiming to harness the full spectrum of data insights for informed decision-making and innovative solutions.

The event is supported by technology leaders Algo, Alteryx, Datalyticx, Denodo, Informatica, SAS, and Snowflake, whose pivotal contributions are instrumental in shaping and advancing the industry dialogue on AI and Smart Data.

For more information and to register for the event, please visit ‘Unleashing Digital Potential with AI and Smart Data’.

• Collaboration will boost uptake in digital payment options for diverse industries and empower businesses of all sizes with secure payment solutions
• Partnership supports the UAE’s transition to a cashless society with accessible payment options for all

e& enterprise announced a strategic partnership with Payit from First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) to transform payment acceptances and elevate customer satisfaction for businesses across the UAE.

By integrating with e& enterprise’s Payment as a Service (PaaS) Layer, businesses can offer their customers a simplified and secure payment experience through Payit’s advanced digital wallet technology. The partnership will increase digital payment adoption rates, boost conversion rates and enhance overall customer satisfaction.

Miguel Angel Villalonga COO of e& enterprise, said: “We're excited to partner with Payit, taking a big step towards enabling digital transformation and cashless payments for businesses. Our Payment as a Service platform plays a key enablement role in this process, providing a secure and comprehensive payment acceptance ecosystem. With this partnership, we aim to offer businesses enhanced payment acceptance instruments, empowering them to provide their customers with a frictionless payment experience. By leveraging our strengths and expertise, we’re confident that we can revolutionise business transactions, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.”

Nitin Bhandari, SVP and Head of Wallet at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), said: “We are happy to partner with e& enterprise and be part of their PaaS platform for online payment processing, bringing our digital wallet technology to businesses across the UAE. All current and future merchant partners using e& enterprise’s PaaS Platform can now also accept digital payments directly from Payit wallets, with no additional requirement for technical enhancements or extra investments. Our Payit digital wallet has already introduced many individuals to the convenience of cashless transactions, and we look forward to expanding its reach with e& enterprise’s PaaS platform.”

e& enterprise’s vision is to enable businesses of all sizes with secure, reliable, and customisable payment acceptance solutions, facilitating their digital transformation. With its strong customer focus and innovative digital payment tools, e& enterprise is set to be a valuable digital transformation partner to UAE businesses by providing a frictionless payment experience, catering to the unique requirements of each customer.

With deep experience in the region and its proprietary PaaS platform, e& enterprise is driving the adoption of digital payments for industries such as retail, fashion, tourism, hospitality, insurance, real estate, and car rentals.

Launched in 2018, FAB’s Payit is the UAE’s first fully featured digital wallet created to support the transition to a cashless society. Payit offers cash-dependent consumers an accessible alternative to traditional bank products, including international money transfers, peer-to-peer payments, merchant payments, bill payments, and local bank transfers.

e& today announced a strategic partnership during International Telecoms Week (ITW) in the United States with network security company, Cato Networks, marking a significant milestone that will establish a new Point-of-Presence (PoP) within the global technology group’s SmartHub Data Centre.

As one of the UAE's premier carrier-neutral data facilities, e&’s SmartHub will serve as a crucial platform for Cato Networks' business customers enabling them to access enhanced interconnectivity and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) technology.

Nabil Bacoucche, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, e&, said: “We are excited to share our partnership with Cato Networks, which reflects our dedication to building a connected world that nurtures growth for both businesses and individuals. Leveraging our extensive network of strategically located data centers, we provide access to a significant portion of the global population through top-notch infrastructure. We are enthusiastic about supporting Cato Networks with a competitive advantage by seamlessly linking them to international digital networks.”

This collaboration is set to unlock  numerous global interconnection opportunities for Cato Networks' customers. Customers will benefit from SmartHub's extensive ecosystem, which offers access to interconnected communities and ensures a broad reach to international markets. The integration into e&'s SmartHub will allow Cato Networks' customers to enjoy the advantages of reduced latency and superior connectivity performance, optimising their global communications and data transfer capabilities.

“Our partnership with e& provides organisations with unparalleled connectivity and a seamless network security stack, setting a new standard in flexibility and agility. Organisations today require the efficiency and effectiveness of a cloud-native platform, delivering a comprehensive network and security infrastructure within minutes and hours. Cato is dedicated to supporting the Gulf region and recognises the significance of collaborating with global leaders such as e& to deliver secure digital services in an ever-expanding interconnected world,” said Kanwar Loyal, VP for Northern Europe & MEA.

The robust infrastructure of SmartHub, embedded in submarine landing stations and terrestrial borders, connects the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, and serves as an ICT bridge between continents. Ensuring seamless connectivity and continuity across regions, SmartHub offers a community-based ecosystem encompassing reliable caching servers and edge nodes serving internet users, hyper-scalers, content delivery networks (CDNs), video streaming and gaming platforms, and financial services providers.

• First e& live demo of several use cases for fully autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing  (eVTOL) aircraft and drones powered entirely by e& UAE's 5G network
• Strategic partnership marks a significant step in positioning the UAE as global hub for aerial mobility innovations
• Collaboration will enable development of integrated solutions that maximise the potential of autonomous systems in UAE

e& UAE and Multi Level Group (MLG), today announced a landmark partnership to drive innovation in aerial mobility and autonomous systems across the United Arab Emirates.

This agreement will see e& UAE combine its world-class 5G network and digital expertise with MLG's leadership through Advanced Mobility Hub (AMH) in eVTOL and drones  development as well as integrated solutions. Together, the two organisations aim to transform sectors like air passenger transport, logistics, surveillance, and various other applications, including agriculture, firefighting, gaming drones and training.

The collaboration was unveiled at an event hosted by MLG at Advanced Mobility Hub in collaboration with Emirates Falcons Aviation in Al Ain, where both entities also plan to establish the first Vertical Port (V-port).

Attendees witnessed for the first-time several live demonstrations of Advanced Mobility Hub for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and drones powered by e& UAE’s 5G network.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO e& UAE, said: “Innovation is at the core of everything we do. We are constantly seeking opportunities to harness the power of our cutting-edge 5G technologies to drive the UAE’s progress into the future. We are excited to work closely with MLG to revolutionise transportation, shaping a future-forward autonomous aerial vehicles ecosystem. e& UAE will enable MLG with the power of our 5G network capabilities of ultra-fast, highly reliable, and low-latency connectivity to enhance the efficiency of their advanced autonomous solutions. This partnership represents an important step towards realising our country’s ambitious vision, positioning the UAE as a hub for next-generation aerial mobility solutions.”

5G plays a crucial role in enabling autonomous vehicles and an ecosystem by providing ultra-reliable and low-latency communication essential for vehicles to sense their environment, communicate with other vehicles and infrastructure, and make AI-based decisions. Leveraging e& UAE's 5G leadership, the companies will develop integrated solutions that maximise the capabilities of autonomous systems. e& UAE will also explore incorporating MLG’s eVTOL and drone offerings into its portfolio to offer innovative solutions to its customers.

The Advanced Mobility Hub also serves as a dynamic ecosystem for various entities, including Wings Logistics Hub, Space Falcon, Connected Vehicles, FutureTech, and Vports. As part of the collaboration with Emirates Falcons Aviation, the plan is to construct the first world-class vertical port in Al Ain.

Abdul Jabber Al Sayegh, Chairman of MLG, said: "This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our journey to revolutionise aerial transportation and drone technology in the UAE enabling us to achieve our goals in Advance Mobility Hub (AMH) and taking these solutions to a global landscape. By joining forces with e& UAE, we aim to unlock new possibilities and deliver transformative solutions that drive progress and prosperity for the nation.”

This partnership is in line with the initiative launched by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, a hub for smart mobility in the MENA region. This will position the capital as a global leader revolutionising mobility across air, land, and sea. All these use cases were also conducted in association with the Cyber Security Council (CSC) of UAE.

e& UAE will also support MLG’s expansion in the UAE through its vehicle of Advance Mobility Hub, leveraging its extensive network of public and private sector partners and expertise to maximise economic impact. Moreover, e& UAE will provide strategic support to evaluate key aspects of MLG's business model, ensuring seamless integration into the country's dynamic market.

With a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and societal progress, e& UAE and MLG are poised to elevate the UAE's leadership in autonomous aerial mobility on the global stage.

Global achievement announced at SAMENA Leaders’ Summit 2024

e& UAE today announced the world's fastest recorded speed of 30.5Gbps on its live 5G network, marking a significant milestone in its evolution towards 5G-Advanced.

This global achievement was unveiled during a demonstration held at SAMENA Leaders’ Summit 2024, showcasing the successful aggregation of multiple carriers across high-band and mid-band spectrums (1600 MHz in mmWave and 300MHz in C-band), with network speeds reaching 30.5Gbps.

This achievement underscores e& UAE's commitment to delivering unparalleled user experiences, ensuring seamless connectivity to meet the increasing demand for a broad spectrum of digital services.

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) of e& UAE, said: “We are thrilled to announce e& UAE's achievement of the world's fastest 5G network speed. With this accomplishment, we are poised to unleash the boundless potential of 5G technology, empowering innovative services and applications that will transform the fabric of society and the economy.

“Aligned with the UAE's ambitious digital agenda, e& UAE's continuous investment in its network and technologies underscores its commitment to delivering premium digital services. By adopting the latest 5G solutions, we are providing our customers with premium digital experiences today but also paving the way for the 6G era by 2030 in line with the UAE’s recently unveiled 6G Roadmap by TDRA.”

As the demand for advanced network capabilities continues to surge, e& UAE is poised to revolutionise the landscape of connectivity in the UAE. This vision integrates state-of-the-art technologies and innovative services, including network slicing, private 5G network, RedCap, mobile VPN, and premium Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) leased lines, offering a superior experience for consumers, home, and enterprise customers alike.

e& UAE has also harnessed the power of AI to deliver seamless and personalised experiences to every customer. AI technologies will spearhead intelligent energy-saving and smart network planning initiatives, driving environmental responsibility and technological excellence to new heights.

This monumental achievement solidifies e& UAE's position as a trailblazer in the telecommunications industry, reaffirming its dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering connectivity solutions for the digital era.

• For the 8^th consecutive year, UAE tops global fibre connectivity with 99.3 per cent penetration
• e& UAE continues to support the nation’s standing as a global frontrunner in high-speed fibre connectivity

The UAE has once again been recognised as the global leader in Fibre to the Home (FTTH) penetration. This marks the eighth consecutive year the country has held this top position with a penetration rate of 99.3 per cent, as reported by the FTTH Council in its latest annual report. The report analysed data from 20 countries that have exceeded 50 per cent FTTH availability and compared global statistics on fibre optic network penetration. It placed the UAE above Singapore (97.1 per cent), Hong Kong (95.3 per cent), China (92.9 per cent), and South Korea (91.5 per cent). The ranking solidifies the UAE’s position as a global leader in high-speed fibre connectivity and underscores the vision of the nation’s leadership to prioritise next-generation digital infrastructure. e& UAE has played an integral part in realising the nation's connectivity ambitions. With its commitment to digital innovation and interconnectivity, e& UAE continues to invest and develop world-class infrastructure for 5G and fibre networks. Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, said: “The UAE's proactive strategies and investments in fibre connectivity are a testament to both the nation’s visionary leadership and its confidence to empower people to thrive in the digital age. This commitment has established the country as the benchmark for how nations can enable communities through world-class digital infrastructure. As the world continues to be redefined by ever-growing connectivity needs and data demands, e& UAE’s focus remains squarely set on the future by innovating, developing, and deploying solutions that will take connectivity to new heights – from 5G to the networks of tomorrow. Through these efforts, we aim to support and propel the UAE's prominence in the global connectivity landscape.” The evolution of FTTH has fuelled the uptake of high-speed broadband, enabling businesses and individuals alike to yield substantial benefits. With their capacity to support higher data rates and readiness for future technological shifts, fibre optic cables play a critical role in the digital era. Beyond boosting performance, fibre supports energy efficiency and sustainability goals and is critical in advancing hyperscalers, 5G Advanced, data centre connectivity, smart cities, and AI-driven initiatives. e& UAE has been at the forefront of digital innovation through strategic investments in mobile and fibre networks. This robust strategy has paved the way for introducing cutting-edge services that address customers' evolving needs. A testament to its standing as a prominent player in the global connectivity landscape, e& UAE was named the Strongest Telecom Brand in the World in 2024 by Brand Finance. The company continues to push boundaries by launching 5Gbps and 10Gbps plans in the UAE. These new fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) plans offer a significant leap forward in internet speed, providing consumers with an unparalleled fibre optic experience. The telco also introduced Fibre-to-the-Yacht (FTTY) recently, seamlessly integrating e& UAE's advanced technology with pre-terminated fibre optic cables, bringing high-speed internet access directly to yachts.

e& today disclosed its consolidated financial results for Q1 2024, reporting consolidated revenue of AED 14.2 billion, growing 9% year-over-year, while consolidated net profit increased to AED 2.3 billion, a year-over-year growth of 7%. The group’s consolidated EBITDA reached AED 6.4 billion, growing 3% year-over-year, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 45%.

The number of e& UAE subscribers reached 14.5 million in Q1 2024, while consolidated group subscribers reached 173 million, representing an increase of 5 per cent over the same period last year.

Financial Highlights for Q1 2024

e& reported strong performance across its operations. This was driven by the expansion of partnerships across its verticals and continuous investments in developing critical infrastructure for future readiness.

H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, Chairman of e& said: “e& reported strong performance in Q1 with consolidated net profits reaching AED 2.3 billion, a growth of 7 per cent year-over-year. This was driven by our focus to build a progressive business model represented by our well-positioned verticals to grow and succeed throughout the year. The group’s efforts towards forming new partnerships across the business ecosystem to deploy emerging technologies that drive next-generation digital connectivity has played a significant role in this success journey. We are pushing the boundaries of technology, empowering millions of people with innovative solutions and making breakthroughs in supporting the UAE's well-defined vision for digital transformation.”

Hatem Dowidar, Group Chief Executive Officer of e&, said: “Our evolution as a tech-co that embraces the future is reflected in our Q1 financial results, building on the momentum of last year’s success. e&’s robust performance in Q1, with consolidated revenue growth of 9 per cent to AED 14.2 billion while consolidated EBITDA reached AED 6.4 billion, growing 3 per cent year-over-year. This is a testament of the strategic choices we’ve made in diversifying our portfolio, fortifying our brand, and cementing partnerships in our unrelenting efforts to digitally empower the people and communities we serve while maximising value creation for our shareholders.”

Key Operational Highlights

e&

e& was named the Fastest Growing Tech Brand and Most Valuable Brand Portfolio in MEA and has continued its growth trajectory exemplified by landmark partnerships, alliances, and large-scale infrastructural developments that position the group as a transformational force. 

In Q1 e& and its partners in the Global Telco AI Alliance announced a joint venture to develop telco-specific Large Language Models (LLMs) to revolutionise customer service through advanced AI solutions. e& also made a commitment to the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Partner2Connect Digital Coalition, pledging to invest US$ 6 billion between 2024 and 2026 in technological advancement, infrastructure development, and innovative digital solutions to extend meaningful connectivity to communities across its markets.

e& Carrier & Wholesale (C&W) has made advancements in accelerating the growth of connectivity with milestone agreements in the subsea cable space. C&W is set to anchor the 2Africa subsea cable, marking the most extensive subsea cable system landing in the UAE to date. A collaboration with Ooredoo will introduce the Gulf Gateway Cable (GGC-1), connecting data centres in Abu Dhabi and Doha while facilitating seamless communication and data exchange. In addition, C&W launched the region’s first Smart Connect (Bandwidth on Demand) service.

e&, Telecom Egypt, Telin and a major Indian operator formed a consortium to develop the ICE IV Project to seamlessly connect the Intra Asia region to India and the Middle East. e& expanded its Tier III SmartHub data centre network to Abu Dhabi, providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and connectivity to support the entire region’s digital ecosystem.

e& C&W launched a one-stop-shop solution with a new wholesale service model empowering emerging network operators with fully managed services, giving them access to the entire value chain, including Bilateral Roaming Services, Roaming as a Service (RaaS), Voice Gateway Services, A2P Gateway services, and Data connectivity for faster internet access.

e& and Vodafone joined forces to empower other operators to confidently adapt to the evolving voice landscape with cross-border managed voice solutions. e& and Dell Technologies partnered to support and strengthen e&’s mobile networks transition to open technologies. In addition, e& and Huawei signed an agreement that will see both entities collaborating on developing green and energy-efficient networks in the UAE.

Setting a new precedent in the UAE’s journey towards net-zero carbon emissions, e& also continued its sustainability efforts by partnering with Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility Company to deploy a fleet of 100 BYD electric vehicles (EVs).

Recognising that its people are central to its success, e& consistently invests in fostering a positive and supportive work environment and was recognised as a ‘Great Place to Work®’.

e& UAE

e& UAE continued to reign as the Strongest Telecom Brand in the World in 2024. ABAC Center of Excellence also awarded e& UAE the distinguished ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS) certification, a significant milestone in its commitment to ethical business practices.

As a pioneer in network technology and services, e& UAE completed multiple cloud Radio Access Network (RAN) trials, a first in the MEA region, providing network innovation and agility to operators and enterprises to improve performance in the 5G ecosystem.

Setting an industry benchmark in the Middle East, e& UAE announced a network upgrade capability that will deliver speeds of up to 50Gbps. Powered by the successful completion of the Middle East’s first symmetric 50-Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Networks (50G PON) broadband service, e& UAE is set to accelerate the digital experience for households and businesses.

e& UAE continued to drive innovation in the market, opening the second AI-empowered autonomous telecom store, ‘EASE,’ in Dubai mall. Powered by AI and ground-breaking technologies, the store is designed to help customers seamlessly purchase products and services.

The first quarter was characterised by collaborations and advancements in connectivity solutions that maximise stakeholder value and customer experience. By partnering with Cisco it will enable businesses in the UAE to digitally transform and bring efficiency in their operations. A partnership with Advanced Real Estate Services (ADRES), a PropTech venture developer, will enhance the entity’s digital framework and expand its reach through e& UAE’s digital platforms.

Additional collaborations with Huawei include a live trial of MENA’s first 800GE router, marking a major step toward moving 800GE technology out of lab tests and into practical use. e& UAE became the first company outside North America to deploy Microsoft’s Azure Operator Nexus and Azure Operator 5G Core solutions. Deepening its efforts to elevate customer experiences using custom Generative AI (GenAI), e& UAE partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

e& UAE partnered with Ericsson to implement the latest charging features across its network to boost 5G capabilities, monetise new 5G services, and provide enhanced experiences to customers in the UAE through technology, security, and operational upgrades. Both organisations also completed a Cloud RAN trial in the UAE, successfully conducting a 5G data call using Ericsson’s Cloud RAN architecture in a lab environment.

Nokia and e& UAE came together to showcase the industry’s first Multi-Access Edge Slicing on a live network. With Oracle, the partnership entailed enhancing AI capabilities by deploying NVIDIA H100 GPU clusters within e& UAE’s Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) Dedicated Region, located at its data centres.

In a trailblazing move that will enhance global connectivity, e& UAE became the first operator to join Yahsat’s Direct-to-Device (D2D) to bring satellite coverage to standard smartphones.

e& UAE unveiled new 5Gbps and 10Gbps Plans, the first of its kind in the UAE. The new Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) plans are set to significantly enhance the connectivity experience for consumers with ultra-fast fibre internet. Bringing transformative connectivity to the water’s edge, Corning Incorporated and e& UAE introduced Fibre-to-the-Yacht (FTTY) at Yas Marina, integrating 138 yachts with the latter’s advanced solutions and Corning’s pre-terminated fibre optic cables.

KEZAD Communities partnered with e& UAE to redefine the digital landscape of Razeen Residential City in Abu Dhabi, leveraging advanced technology to significantly enhance the quality of life for the city’s residents. Aqara collaborated with e& UAE to meet the region’s growing demand for smart living. e& UAE released a whitepaper to showcase its capabilities at the forefront of the UAE’s transition to 5G.

e& life

In Q1, e& life followed through on its philosophy of “simplicity being the ultimate sophistication”, refreshing the design of the e& money financial app, the number one native fintech app in the UAE in terms of monthly active users.

evision continued to fortify its content library to meet the diverse demands of the MENA audience. In an impressive Q1 performance, it showcased substantial growth, surpassing a milestone of 5.5 million users. This achievement was propelled by the resounding success of STARZ ON, evision’s ad-supported streaming platform, launched last year in the MENA region.

In addition, evision cemented its position as a pioneer in delivering world-class entertainment to MENA, catering to sports enthusiasts and thrill-seeking audiences with the launch of Red Bull TV and ‘DAZN Combat’ on STARZ ON. The channel showcases the best of boxing, MMA, and other combat sports. STARZ ON also offered the 2024 Women’s Premier League cricket tournament live and for free.

Evision reinforced its position as a leading media and entertainment powerhouse in the MENAP region by expanding its strategic collaboration with Disney Star. Under the extended partnership, evision built MENA’s home of content for the subcontinent audience, bringing the best of South Asian entertainment to audiences across the region by securing four-year MENA exclusive ICC cricket rights and becoming the home of Hotstar Specials in the region.

Directly supporting the strategic objective of e& life to be the leading consumer ecosystem player in the region, evision partnered with Cricbuzz to transform cricket broadcasting in the Middle East.

Evision successfully re-established direct Hollywood studio deals with Sony Pictures and MGM Amazon for SVOD, signalling a renewed focus on bringing high-quality entertainment to audiences in MENA. It also enhanced its Arabic portfolio with a strategic partnership with Noor Play, offering an exciting array of Ramadan content available across e& platforms, including Egyptian drama, Turkish programming, sports, cooking, and kid’s content.

 e& enterprise

Continuing its objective on digitally transforming the healthcare sector, e& enterprise and Daman launched “Hayakom Digital Booth”, a visionary concept designed to redefine health insurance accessibility and improve customer service in the UAE.

Two landmark collaborations with Burjeel Holdings, including the launch of a pioneering telemedicine services project and an MoU to transform delivery models, were aimed at redefining healthcare in the UAE and beyond. Each collaboration represents a transformative approach to healthcare that prioritises accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability across the region.

e& enterprise’s partnership with Fils is set to establish a new standard in the digital payments sector by promoting sustainability with businesses sharing precise information with their customers, including carbon emissions per transaction and the option to offset their carbon footprint using reliable methods.

Its commitment to unlocking the public and private sector’s digital potential was given increased vitality with several new partnerships and collaborations formed in Q1. The year began with the CX World Forum, where e& enterprise participated as a strategic partner, joining industry leaders and decision-makers to explore the future of customer experience.

Haifin, the freshly rebranded trade finance blockchain platform of e& enterprise, announced its broader vision to expand beyond the UAE where, in 2023, it evaluated over AED 116 billion worth of transactions, representing close to 70 per cent year-on-year growth.

A partnership with the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (ADSSA) illustrates e& enterprise’s capabilities in digitally enabling public sector entities to develop the “House Visit and Interviews Management System”.

e& enterprise and SAS joined forces to enable AI-powered and data-driven innovations in the UAE and KSA. It also reinforced its commitment to accelerating Saudi Arabia’s digital future held in partnership with the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and International Data Corporation (IDC), exploring the current state of the Kingdom’s digital landscape and highlighted e& enterprise’s investments in the region and its contribution to advancing the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

As the official host partner for the IDC Middle East CIO Summit 2024, e& enterprise reaffirmed its commitment to driving digital transformation in the region, leading discussions focused on the role of IT leaders in today’s increasingly AI-infused landscape.

 e& international

e& international continued to expand its Partner Networks Programme, aimed at extending the benefits of its extensive scale to other operators. In the first quarter there was significant progress with the new partner Ncell Nepal, now extending the programme to five operators across six countries.  

Additionally, the business reinforced its commitment to boosting partner networks at the second annual Chief Business Officer (CBO) Forum, where the Partner Network Programme was expanded with the addition of Sudatel.

PTCL became the market leader in Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) services in Pakistan. Its ascent to the forefront of this critical segment of the telecommunications market is a testament to its robust infrastructure and innovative offerings.

e& capital

Since the launch of e& capital in 2022, it has invested over US $100 million in more than 10 high-growth, technologically innovative companies, making e& capital the most active CVC investor in the Middle East.

Its portfolio companies are disrupting the technological landscape and driving substantial value to customers across MENA and globally. e& capital’s companies are the source of the most technologically advanced innovations, supported by leading global institutions and universities. It continues to source and invest in innovative founders, helping them scale and benefit from synergies across the e& group.

• Complete in-country hosting of voice and application infrastructure
• AI-driven platform offers comprehensive engagement tools and a 360-degree view of every interaction
  
  

e& enterprise today announced a partnership with NICE to collaborate on its cutting-edge CX capabilities and Contact Centre as a Service (CCaaS) platform in the UAE.

The platform's integrated engageX CX capabilities ensure sensitive customer data remains in-country, while also empowering businesses to comply with regulations across government and public-private sector projects. The NICE CXone, engageX offers an end-to-end solution, from consultancy and platform ecosystem to delivery, onboarding, and ongoing support, enabling organisations to scale their customer interactions while enhancing the quality of their services.

The solution empowers public, private and government sector customers to securely address every interaction at scale. In addition, the platform offers a rich set of capabilities including omni-channel engagement, workforce engagement management (WEM), AI-driven automation, interactive voice response (IVR), and recording. By analysing all interactions, enterprises get a 360-degree view of the user experience, removing friction and making it better and more secure on both sides.

Salvador Anglada, Chief Executive Officer, e& enterprise, said: “While navigating today’s dynamic landscape it’s a priority to focus on CX as it’s the cornerstone of business success. By partnering with NICE our teams will now be able to support all our customers and gain a competitive advantage to drive growth and profitability. We remain committed to delivering unparalleled CX, exceeding our customer expectations at every touchpoint, by not only solving business challenges but also forging long-term partnerships.”

The AI-driven platform empowers customer service agents and supervisors with a comprehensive contact centre AI copilot, driving greater focus, productivity, and engagement, and significantly elevating their CX capabilities. Furthermore, the AI-powered virtual assistant guides customers with accurate responses using a trusted company knowledge repository and natural language chat. Consolidating contact centre operations on a unified, AI-powered platform enables agents to save time and easily understand customer data through simple queries. The AI matches each customer with the best-fitted agent, leading to happier customers and better results.

Miguel Villalonga, Chief Executive Officer, e& enterprise cloud, said: “engageX is empowering customer service professionals in the UAE to work smarter, delivering a seamless experience that drives an effective, efficient operation across government and industries.”

Darren Rushworth, President, NICE International said “Interactions have grown more complex than ever. It has become increasingly difficult for organisations to manage this complexity. CXone, NICE’s state-of-the-art CX AI platform, enables companies of all sizes to manage interaction complexity at scale and deliver exceptional CX. We are proud to partner with e& enterprise to drive CX excellence in the UAE.”

Unifying e& enterprise’s engagement tools while providing 360-degree visibility of every customer interaction elevates engageX’s capabilities far above its counterparts in the market. A leader in Gartner Magic Quadrant for consecutive years, the NICE cloud platform, brings a resilient, true cloud, SLA-backed offering to the UAE market, ensuring 100 per cent adherence to local regulations. This is achieved through complete in-country hosting of voice and application infrastructure.

engageX and NICE’s powerful blend of CX expertise is designed to solve complex compliance and customer experience challenges for the government and businesses in the UAE. With NICE, e& enterprise will revolutionise AI-powered CX and customer service across industries and the public sector. 

• Whitepaper outlines e& UAE’s strategic journey in transforming telecommunications with AI
• In-depth paper offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at e& UAE’s AI and data-driven vision

e& UAE released a new whitepaper, offering a blueprint for navigating the future of telecommunications with artificial intelligence (AI). Titled “Unleashing the Power of AI: How e& UAE is Shaping the Future of AI in Telecommunications and Beyond” it offers an in-depth exploration of e& UAE’s journey towards becoming an AI-driven organisation, significantly contributing to the nation’s digital future. The whitepaper explores e& UAE’s strategic integration of more than 400 AI use cases and 160 machine learning (ML) models across its operations.

Dena Almansoori, Group Chief AI and Data Officer, e&, said:

“This whitepaper demonstrates the thoughtful approach, guiding principles, and remarkable AI achievements within e& UAE over the years. Whether adopting AI to improve customer experiences, optimise operations, scale productivity, or reduce costs, we cannot underscore enough the significant impact AI has on the telecommunications sector and beyond.”

The comprehensive document provides a meticulous overview of how AI is ushering in a new era in which telecom players like e& UAE transcend their traditional role as connectivity providers to become architects of complete digital experiences. It offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at e& UAE’s proactive AI and data-driven adoption, including key enablers, use cases, and ethics. It also provides practical guidance and best practices for businesses initiating their AI journeys.

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer, e& UAE, said: “We’re well-versed in the advantages AI can bring to telcos, and our whitepaper leaves no stone unturned in showcasing how we leverage it to deliver more sustainable, efficient, and innovative operations.”

AI in action

As of 2024, e& UAE has accelerated its AI deployment to drive sustainability in resource allocation and energy efficiency and has developed AI processes for network optimisation.

The company’s strategic AI implementations provided the telco with insights to identify improvement areas, significantly lowering operational costs. By creating a dedicated Robotic Process Automation (RPA) team and establishing a Robotics Centre of Excellence (CoE), the company successfully implemented RPA solutions across departments, streamlining tasks and reducing manual work.

e& UAE also revamped its approach to sales and marketing by leveraging AI. Whether launching the first AI-powered telecom store in the world or deploying AI-driven recommendations, e& UAE ensures every customer enjoys a seamless and personalised experience.

With more than 160 machine learning models deployed in various functions, the telco addressed challenges such as fraud. By seamlessly integrating AI and ML solutions into its Customer Value Management (CVM) models and adopting innovations such as facial recognition, voice biometrics, and Optical Character Recognition (OCR), e& UAE ensured customer convenience and protection.

e&'s application of AI and ML extends far beyond its telco vertical, permeating all business pillars, including its enterprise arm, which offers AI-as-a-Service solutions.

The company has also implemented pioneering programmes to upskill its workforce and launched initiatives such as the AI Graduate Programme in 2021, underscoring its holistic approach to AI progress and commitment to ensuring its employees are equipped with the skills needed for the digital future.

Responsible AI transformation

e& UAE's whitepaper showcases the company’s commitment to responsible AI deployment and supporting the UAE's visionary goal of becoming a global AI leader by 2031.

Prioritising ethical AI deployment and focusing on fairness and transparency, e& UAE  has implemented responsible practices to mitigate potential risks and ensure the group’s position as a trusted leader in the AI revolution.

“While this whitepaper marks a pivotal chapter in our journey with AI so far, continuing to build and deploy AI responsibly will be paramount as we navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape,” said Almansoori.

Download the complete whitepaper, Unleashing the Power of AI: How e& UAE is Shaping the Future of AI in Telecommunications and Beyond

• Dividend to reach 89 fils per share by FY 2026
• e&’s AGM to approve cash dividends of 40 fils per share for H2 of 2023

e& announced today, during the group’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), that its shareholders approved the Board of Directors’ recommendation of a new progressive dividend policy with an incremental increase of AED 0.03  every year for the fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026 bringing the dividend per share (DPS) to AED 0.89 by FY 2026.

The group’s AGM also backed the Board’s recommendation to distribute cash dividends of AED 0.40 per share for the second half (July to December) of 2023, representing a total dividend of AED 0.80 per share for FY 2023.

e& shareholders also elected four members of the e&'s Private Sector Board of Directors to fill the four Board seats designated for the non-government shareholder. The elected new members are:

1. Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Sultan Bin Suroor Al Dhahiri – Board member
2.  Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Bin Nasser Alserkal – Board Member
3.  Khalid Abdulwahid Hassan Alrustamani – Board Member
4.  Otaiba Khalaf Ahmed Khalaf Al Otaiba – Board Member

Fulfilling its vision for growth, e& continued its transformation journey to become a global technology powerhouse in 2023. The group demonstrated strong financial performance with consolidated revenues of AED 53.8 billion and a record net profit of AED 10.3 billion, affirming the success of its business strategy.

The group’s rapid evolution was further reinforced by its 2024 Brand Finance ranking as MEA's Fastest Growing Technology Brand and the most valuable TMT brand portfolio valued at US$17 billion in 2024.

H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, Chairman of e&, emphasised that creating future-ready innovations lies at the heart of e&'s mission across its key business pillars, strengthening its industry leadership as one of the top telecommunications companies in the world. He also expressed confidence that e& will continue its success journey by enhancing its performance while adding value to its shareholders.

 “The newly introduced progressive dividend structure exemplifies our confidence in e&'s success journey and our commitment to delivering growing returns to our shareholders,” said H.E. Alzaabi.

“We are confident in our efforts to make e& a symbol of innovation, progress, and growth. Our vision is anchored in the pursuit of advancing business development and driving the digital revolution. By diversifying our portfolio and introducing cutting-edge products and services, we aim to continue cultivating a technology-powered ecosystem that empowers and improves the lives of our more than 170 million subscribers across our operations,” he added.

H.E. Alzaabi concluded, “I want to express my sincere gratitude to the visionary leadership of the UAE, who remains our constant inspiration, and to our shareholders for their enduring trust. e& continues to focus on improving the lives and communities we serve. With e&’s strong portfolio of next-generation connectivity solutions, innovations, and services, I am confident that we will continue to push boundaries to drive long-term success and enable our customers and shareholders to seize the opportunities of the digital future.”

e& attributes these successes to the diligent execution of strategic initiatives and the adept navigation of market dynamics, underscored by resilience and agility. A testament to this is the group’s consolidated revenue of AED 53.8 billion in 2023, which reflects a growth of 2.5 per cent year-over-year, highlighting the group’s successful business transformation.

Hatem Dowidar, Group Chief Executive Officer of e&, highlighted the group's focus on maximising value through synergistic partnerships and a clear vision for strategic acquisitions, which led to strong performance and significant milestones in 2023. He emphasised e&’s continued focus on customer-centricity, global expansion, technology, and diversification into non-telecom verticals, contributing to a successful year.

“Our global expansion journey goes beyond extending our footprint to strategically positioning us in key markets, transcending telecoms to redefine connectivity across diverse technology sectors and empowering communities. We will continue to leverage the momentum of 2023 to deliver our promises and achieve even greater milestones in 2024,” said Dowidar.

 “With a strategic focus and an eye for purpose-driven progress, 2023 has been an incredibly remarkable and rewarding year for e&, underscoring its commitment to pursuing opportunities that create long-term and meaningful impact,” he added.

The group has taken significant steps toward realising its ambitious expansion plans by finalising key partnerships with leading global players such as Vodafone and becoming the largest shareholder in one of the strongest and most globally recognised telecom companies.

Additionally, the binding agreement to acquire the controlling stake in PPF Telecom reflects the group’s broader strategy, expanding its presence into new high-growth regions, strengthening its geographic footprint, and paving the way for the next phase of sustainable, profitable expansion.

Looking ahead, e& aims to further diversify its revenue streams beyond telco-centric operations. By investing in promising markets and leveraging digital solutions, e& seeks to enhance its global presence while harnessing the power of emerging technologies, bringing its ambitions for a connected and intelligent future to reality.

· Updated extension brings autism-friendly browsing to smartphones

· New AI-powered tool summarises information, reducing sensory overload

e& today announced the launch of ‘Wider Web’ for mobile device browsers, coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day. The free-to-use browser extension caters for the needs of autistic users by offering a customisable, sensory-friendly web-browsing experience, highlighting e&'s commitment to digital inclusion.

The launch of Wider Web for mobile follows the debut of Wider Web for desktop computer browsing. First introduced in 2021 in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development (MoCD), the groundbreaking solution revolutionised accessibility, empowering individuals on the autism spectrum to navigate the internet with ease and confidence. The free browser extension, which instantly transforms a standard web page into an autistic-friendly one, represents a project of collaborative design as it was developed with the help of local psychologists and widely tested by users with autism.

As the first tool of its kind dedicated to users with autism, the extension offers a calmer browsing experience by blocking distracting pop-ups, disabling video auto-play, customising fonts, adjusting colours, and simplifying the interface of most websites. Building on the existing benefits, the newly released mobile extension also features an AI-powered summariser, an intuitive tool that condenses lengthy articles into clear, concise paragraphs, making information easier to digest.

85% of autistic users choose to disable video autoplay

Ongoing research conducted by the University of Birmingham Dubai and Dr. Shereen Sharaan, a Postdoctoral Researcher in Psychology, have backed Wider Web’s significance in enhancing the lives of autistic individuals. The study, which focused on 160 autistic adults from diverse ethnic backgrounds, found that 85 per cent of users with autism want to exercise more control over their digital experience by disabling video autoplay. This was closely followed by the personalised 'colour schemes' feature which lets users choose their preferred colour, either dark, medium, or light grey.

Dr. Shereen Sharaan said: “The web can easily become overwhelming to people with autism. Thanks to e&, Wider Web simplifies the way some people experience the web by curating the user experience for people who are on the autism spectrum.”

Through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives like the Wider Web extension, e& empowers communities by ensuring digital experiences are inclusive and accessible for everyone. Wider Web is an open-source technology, enabling anyone to contribute to its constant improvement and wider adoption.

Download the Wider Web browser extension for Safari and Firefox now.

• Telco to leverage MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet services and LSO APIs to deliver more holistic digital solutions
• MEF is a non-profit industry collaboration forum of network, cloud and technology providers

e& UAE announced its membership in MEF, a global industry association of network, cloud, security, and technology providers. This move underscores the digital telco’s commitment to delivering world-class network solutions and enabling seamless connectivity for its customers across the region.

As a member, e& UAE will become part of MEF's exclusive ecosystem of over 200 leading technology, cloud, and network providers. It will also introduce MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet services and Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) automation API standards aligned to MEF’s Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) Industry Blueprint, reinforcing its commitment to delivering comprehensive automated digital connectivity solutions.

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO), e& UAE, said: “At e& UAE, we are dedicated to shaping the future of connectivity at every opportunity. Our membership in MEF and the launch of MEF 3.0 Carrier Ethernet services and LSO APIs reflect our commitment to delivering tangible benefits to our valued customers. This initiative enables us to lead the market with cutting-edge services, meet partner demands for reliable solutions, and expedite our digital transformation journey. Consequently, this translates into faster service delivery, enhanced customer experiences, and solidifies our position as a prominent digital service provider in the region."

Kevin Vachon, Chief Operating Officer, MEF, said: “We are delighted to welcome e& UAE as a new member from the Gulf Region, bringing unique perspectives and expertise to our global ecosystem. By leveraging MEF's standards, certifications, LSO APIs and NaaS Industry Blueprint, which enables providers to develop and deliver innovative offerings, e& UAE can unlock a range of benefits and access to a collaborative, automated ecosystem that will enable them to deliver an even more compelling value proposition to their customers. We foresee e& UAE thriving as a MEF and helping to shape the future of assured services across the region and beyond."

MEF is a global industry association of network, cloud, security, and technology providers working together to accelerate digital transformation. The organisation plays a pivotal role in delivering service standards, LSO frameworks, APIs, and comprehensive training and certification programmes for services, technologies, and professionals. Its NaaS Industry Blueprint is designed to help service providers develop, mrarket, and deliver the next generation of NaaS offerings.

Together with its members, MEF developed the MEF 3.0 global services framework, a practical approach to service delivery enabling the automation of standardised Carrier Ethernet, IP, Optical Transport, SD-WAN, Security-as-a-Service, and various other digital services across multiple provider networks.

Seamless interoperability with partner ecosystems and automation is vital in e& UAE’s strategy to delivering holistic digital innovations. With industry-backed tools and services, the MEF 3.0 connectivity service and LSO APIs will enable etisalat by e& to improve customer experience and reduce time to market on service offerings. This, in turn, will reduce operating costs, resulting in improved margins and enhanced wholesale offerings.

Third edition of the awards to recognise exemplary businesses across 14 categories

e& UAE today announced the opening of nominations for the highly anticipated SMB Awards 2024. In its third edition, the SMB Awards have become the benchmark for recognising and celebrating outstanding achievements of Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) in the UAE.

This year’s SMB Awards will feature 14 distinct categories and are open to organisations that have been operating for over three years and have successfully implemented transformative digital projects contributing to their success. The event will shine a spotlight on companies with exemplary practices in areas such as innovation, business excellence, and digital transformation among others.

Applications for the prestigious SMB Awards 2024 are now open, and companies can nominate their business at etisalat.ae/smbawards2024. A panel of judges, consisting of industry leaders from diverse sectors, will meticulously evaluate all eligible submissions based on multiple criteria. The review process will also be managed and audited by Kreston Menon, a leading audit, business consultancy and accounting firm in the UAE which is affiliated with Kreston Global.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB of e& UAE, said: “SMBs remain the backbone of the UAE’s private sector, and they continue to be an indispensable focus for us. It gives me immense pride that through the SMB Awards, which have become a hallmark of excellence, we can pay tribute to visionary leaders and outstanding companies for their relentless efforts and remarkable achievements in the business landscape.”

e& UAE will unveil the winners at an exclusive gala ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the UAE business community across 14 categories:

• Emirati Business Award
• Artificial Intelligence Award
• Robotics and Automation Award
• Technology Award
• Social Impact Award
• Women in Business Award
• Construction & Real Estate Award
• Healthcare Award
• Retail Award
• Hospitality Award
• Sustainability Award
• E-Commerce Award
• Media & Marketing Award
• SMB of the Year

SMBs play an indispensable role in driving the UAE’s economic development and diversification, and they are an invaluable part of the country’s long-term vision and growth. As of 2023, the sector contributes a significant 63.5 per cent to the nation’s non-oil GDP. Currently, they represent a significant 94 per cent of the companies operating in the country, employing approximately 86 per cent of the private sector workforce.

Over the years, e& UAE has played an instrumental role in empowering SMBs with tailor-made solutions that enable them to grow their business and stay ahead of the curve amid a competitive regional landscape. “The SMB Awards underscore our unwavering commitment to championing organisations that form the bedrock of our economic progress. By highlighting and honouring the accomplishments of SMBs, we aim to provide them with well-deserved recognition while inspiring and motivating others to strive for excellence and innovation,” said Mahmoud.

For more information about the SMB Awards 2024 and the nomination process, please visit etisalat.ae/smbawards2024.

e& enterprise and The National Health Insurance Company – Daman, part of PureHealth, the largest integrated healthcare platform in the Middle East, today unveiled the innovative Hyakum Digital Booth, a visionary concept designed to redefine health insurance accessibility and improve customer service in the United Arab Emirates.

The ‘Hayakom Digital Booth’, a first in the global health insurance sector, ushers in unparalleled 24/7 insurance service accessibility. This pioneering venture is set to commence with a Proof of Concept (POC) in two prime locations, heralding an ambitious expansion to over 20 sites within three years.

Harnessing the synergy of IoT and AI, the state-of-the-art self-service health insurance kiosks will be ingeniously connected to a central command centre, ensuring maximum operational efficiency and a high service experience. The kiosks will feature Emirates ID biometric and identity verification, interactive touchscreens, high-security video surveillance and advanced document scanning, all supported by a robust data infrastructure powered by 5G.

Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise said, "Our venture with Daman embodies e& enterprise's drive for digital innovation and commitment to creating unparalleled customer experiences. The Hayakom Digital Booth is a leap into the future, reshaping the insurance services landscape with cutting-edge technology."

Khaled Ateeq Aldhaheri, Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Company – Daman, said: "The Hayakom Digital Booth marks a milestone in the accessibility, efficiency and robustness of insurance services. This ground-breaking concept places Daman at the forefront of industry innovation and reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional customer service."

This initiative is a cornerstone of Daman's strategic progression, establishing a unique value proposition in customer engagement and operational efficiency. It marks a move towards a more cost-effective service model that aligns with the UAE's sustainability goals to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional insurance practices, while enhancing the customer experience and broadening access to services.

Together, Daman and e& enterprise will pave a new way for customer service in the health insurance industry, while setting a new standard for technology integration and user-centric convenience in everyday transactions.

• Virtual sessions, endorsed by the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE)
• Teachers and students benefit from free AI, programming, and web development workshops
• e&’s CSR initiatives empower communities by transferring knowledge and resources

e& today announced the 2024 edition of its virtual coding camp, created to empower students and teachers with the essential technical skills to navigate and succeed in today's dynamic digital world.

Following the success of previous workshops, this year, the free educational sessions took place virtually from 25^th - 28^th March, conducted by the Emirates ICT Innovation Centre (EBTIC), the ICT research and innovation centre established by e&, BT, and Khalifa University of Science and Technology and supported by the ICT Fund.

His Excellency Dr. Hassan Obaid AlMheiri, Assistant Under-Secretary for Planning and Educational Services sector at the Ministry of Education, noted that the partnership with e& will help equip students and educators with the skills and knowledge to navigate and succeed in the AI era. His Excellency AlMheiri said: “At the Ministry of Education, we believe that impactful cross-sectorial partnerships and collaborations with private sector partners pave the way to nurture future generations that can innovate, create and build a brighter future for our nation. When embracing new innovative technologies such as AI, and programming, we not only unlock the full potential of our students and educators to compete on the global stage, but also empower them to be ready to excel in our rapidly changing world”.

 Through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives like the MoE-endorsed virtual coding camp, e& empowers communities by transferring knowledge and resources through free workshops leveraging EBTIC's resources and academy.

The virtual coding camp, open to UAE public and private school students and teachers from grade seven and above, includes introductory sessions to AI (using Weka), programming (using Python), web development (using Streamlit), and optimisation (using genetic algorithms). Each two-hour session takes place between 1:15 pm and 3:15 pm over four days.

Dr. Nawaf I. Almoosa, Director, Emirates ICT Innovation Centre (EBTIC), Interim Director, Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC), and Assistant Professor, Computer & Communication Engineering, Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to offer our expertise and become part of this joint initiative by e& and the UAE Ministry of Education for the virtual coding camp for high school students. This reflects Khalifa University’s consistent commitment towards contributing to building and developing skills in essential areas relevant to creating the next generation of decision-makers. This course also reflects the advanced technology areas that EBTIC specialises in, especially machine learning, algorithms, and programming. We believe this course will immensely benefit the participants and will motivate them to explore science, engineering, and technology for further academic pursuits.”

The virtual coding camp is part of e&'s ongoing efforts to support UAE education and build on the group's previous collaborations with MoE, where virtual cybersecurity awareness sessions were held for schools to promote a culture of online safety and enhance future generations' digital resilience. In 2023, the virtual coding camp upskilled more than 700 students.

The interactive workshops will be held virtually to facilitate seamless participation for students and teachers, allowing them to conveniently engage from the comfort of their homes or classrooms.

Virtual coding camp timetable

e& UAE, the telecom arm of e&, and Corning Incorporated, a global leader in optical-communications innovation, have collaborated to introduce Fibre-to-the-Yacht (FTTY) connectivity at Yas Marina. The collaboration seamlessly integrates e& UAE’s advanced solutions with Corning's cutting-edge pre-terminated fibre optic cables, bringing transformative connectivity to the water’s edge.

With the introduction of e& UAE's FTTY solution, 138 yachts were connected with Corning’s fibre optic cables. Yacht owners at Yas Marina can now enjoy a next-generation digital experience, offering exceptional speed, unparalleled reliability, and seamless online connectivity for work, entertainment, and communication. This initiative aligns with e& UAE’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to its customers wherever they are located.

Marwan Bin Shakar, Senior Vice President, Access Network Development, e& UAE, said: “We are excited about the successful implementation of FTTY services that seamlessly combines speed, reliability and innovation ensuring uninterrupted connectivity on the water. As we embark on this new era of maritime communication, we’re excited to collaborate with Corning to bring enhanced digital experiences to all the yacht owners at Yas Marina.”

Corning's state-of-the-art pre-terminated solution has streamlined the deployment process, enabling e& UAE to offer a reliable and high-speed internet connection to yacht owners. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to efficiency and excellence.

Tadeu Viana, Vice President, Sales EMEA, Carrier Networks, at Corning said: “We are pleased that e& UAE introduced this transformative FTTY service at Yas Marina, utilising Corning's advanced pre-terminated fibre optic solution. Corning is working with our customers around the globe to bring the benefits of high-speed fibre connectivity to more and more people. It’s remarkable to see all the places fibre is going – on land and water. This collaboration marks a noteworthy milestone, as it enables access to reliable connectivity at any time for the Marina community.”

The collaboration between e& UAE and Corning underscores a dedication to future-proofing the network infrastructure, ensuring that emerging digital needs are catered for, and customers benefit from being at the forefront of technological advancements.

The Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority (ADSSA) announced the launch of the “House Visit and Interviews Management System'', developed in partnership with e& enterprise. The initiative marks a significant milestone in ADSSA’s continuous endeavours to drive digital transformation to enhance the efficiency and impact of its social support services for limited-income families in Abu Dhabi. 

The “House Visit and Interviews Management System'' is designed to help ADSSA employees streamline their field visits to beneficiary families. It provides a central interface for customers and beneficiaries, offering updated information about their requests and living conditions. The system also integrates advanced mapping technologies for precise travel planning and includes a feedback module for customers to share their visit experiences, promoting continuous service enhancement.

His Excellency Abdulla Humaid Al Ameri, Director General of Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, said: “At ADSSA, we are committed to adopting top-notch solutions to support the digital transformation of our administrative and field services and activities. This new system, developed in partnership with e& enterprise, incorporates the latest features of IoT & AI, marking a significant milestone in our continued efforts to improve our efficiency. We will continue to work diligently to ensure the satisfaction of our customers and beneficiaries with limited income in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.”

Al Ameri added: “The deployment of “House Visit and Interviews Management System” is a testament to ADSSA’s commitment to adopting innovative solutions for enhanced service delivery in line with the directives of the Abu Dhabi government. This initiative not only amplifies our capabilities but also significantly contributes to enriching the social support ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.”

Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise said: “We're proud to partner with ADSSA in this transformative project, showcasing e& enterprise's commitment to advancing government digital transformation. The successful implementation of the 'House Visit and Interviews Management System' reflects our dedication to using innovative technology for societal benefit, setting a new standard in efficient and effective social support services.”

 The system is meticulously designed to automate and optimise key processes like application management, visit scheduling, and reporting. It provides a comprehensive platform for ADSSA’s Assessment Team to efficiently manage applications, field visits, and reports.

A notable aspect of this project is the automated resource allocation and workload balancing, which facilitates accurate resource deployment, reduces the time required to provide services, and significantly boosts organisational KPIs. 

• Yahsat’s Direct-to-Device (D2D) strategy aims to enhance global connectivity by directly enabling smartphone users and IoT devices to harness the capabilities of SpaceTech, irrespective of their location
• Two leading companies join forces to drive global connectivity forward as part of Yahsat’s recently launched D2D strategy – Project SKY

Abu Dhabi, 14^th March 2024: e& UAE and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company, the UAE’s flagship satellite solutions provider signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

According to this MoU, e& UAE is set to become the first telecom operator to partner with Yahsat under its Direct-to-Device (D2D) strategy.

The collaboration includes exploring various initiatives and projects concerning Yahsat’s planned D2D ecosystem to enable voice, texting, and data satellite connectivity for standard smartphones. Through this partnership, e& UAE and Yahsat will work together on a range of innovative projects aimed at revolutionising satellite connectivity.

Ali Al Hashemi, Group CEO, Yahsat, said: “We are delighted to announce our MoU with e& UAE, a leading global telecom operator, as the first of many agreements we hope to reach with key industry players as part of our D2D strategyWe are discussing a whole host of areas where we aim to collaborate, which includes developing the ecosystem as part of our recently launched D2D strategy – Project SKY.”

 Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO, e& UAE, said: “This partnership with Yahsat unlocks a new era of global connectivity. We're proud to be the first operator to join Yahsat's D2D vision and leverage our networks to bring seamless, anytime-anywhere connectivity to people everywhere. This is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and realising our shared vision of a connected future.”

The partnership will see the two companies joining forces on Yahsat ‘s planned Low Earth Orbit (LEO) D2D system, which is designed to provide seamless connectivity (including voice, texting, and data) for standard smartphones. This technology will offer unprecedented levels of connectivity and accessibility for users around the world.

The collaboration is the latest step in the implementation of Yahsat’s D2D strategy that seeks to empower standard smartphones and Internet of Things (IoT) devices with advanced satellite capabilities in an ecosystem of services and applications that can be accessed anywhere in the world.

Great Place to Work® certification exemplifies e&’s efforts to fostering a supportive and engaging workplace

e& has been named a Great Place to Work® by the Great Place to Work Institute in recognition of the company’s efforts to fostering a positive, supportive, and engaging work environment for its employees.

With a track record in pioneering next-generation innovations and driving positive changes for both employees and customers, e&'s Great Place to Work® certification stands as a natural progression in the Group’s journey as a global tech-co, solidifying its position as a destination for exceptional minds and a true champion of a thriving workplace culture.

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e&, said: “This recognition is a strong validation of  the importance of people  in e& and our continuous efforts to empower all our colleagues. Our exciting journey as a tech-co goes beyond embracing new technologies, it's about ensuring that every member of the e& family thrives. This certification signifies that we're on the right track, creating an environment where every employee feels valued, heard, and  equipped to contribute meaningfully to our shared success.”

Ali Al Mansoori, Acting Group Chief HR Officer, e&, said: “At e&, our people are the pillars of our success. This recognition shows our dedication to prioritising employee happiness, well-being, and growth. We aim to attract top talent by introducing innovative strategies. As we grow, we'll keep raising the bar with new initiatives, ensuring e& stays a Great Place to Work®.”

As part of its ongoing initiatives to empower its workforce, e& has established a world-class AI competency hub, integrating top-tier internal AI talent with global AI leaders. The company is also focused on accelerating professional growth through leadership development initiatives like the e& Group Organisational Leadership Development (GOLD) Programme, the Women Leadership Programme, and License to Lead. Simultaneously, e& continues to promote diversity and inclusion, exemplified by the increased representation of women, People of Determination (PoD), youth, and individuals from diverse nationalities within the organisation.

In terms of ensuring employee wellness, last year, e& piloted a four-day workweek for employees across three departments in the UAE, becoming the first technology company in the country to embrace the global call for workplace flexibility. It also introduced a progressive 3:2 hybrid work model and revamped remote work policies tailored to support new parents. Additionally, the implementation of 'Green Fridays' for remote work contributed to the reduction in the company's carbon footprint while also enhancing employee well-being by easing commuting stress and fostering a better work-life balance.

The certification is grounded in genuine feedback from employees surveyed through the Trust Index™, an assessment encompassing five key dimensions: credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. 

Notably, the survey revealed that a vast majority of e& employees proudly identify with the company, indicating a strong sense of belonging and loyalty. Additionally, they feel a surge of pride when reflecting on the company's achievements, highlighting a powerful shared sense of purpose and collective accomplishment. e&'s exceptional performance in these areas speaks volumes about their success in fostering a culture where employees feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Cricbuzz to launch Cricbuzz TV channels on eLife, SwitchTV and Starzplay 

In a landmark partnership set to amplify the reach of local and international cricket in the Middle East, evision, media and entertainment arm of e& and the largest content aggregator in the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan region has joined forces with Cricbuzz, a leading global destination for cricket, to introduce CricbuzzTV, a set of 24/7 channels featuring the top global cricket competitions and events. This strategic collaboration will bring more live cricket action to fans throughout the year, directly on elife, SwitchTV and Starzplay.

Cricbuzz TV is all set to become a new destination of live cricket in the region alongside evision’s own CricLife channels, offering an unparalleled viewing experience with live coverage of major cricket events. In addition to the exclusive broadcasts of the top global cricket bilaterals and tournaments, the CricbuzzTV channels will feature exclusive and original programming produced by Cricbuzz, enriching the fan experience.

Highlighting the significance of this partnership, Olivier Bramly, CEO of evision, said: "Our collaboration with Cricbuzz marks a significant milestone in our mission to deliver exceptional sports entertainment to our audiences. evision has long been the home of cricket in the Middle East with our very own CricLife channels and now with Cricbuzz TV also available, eLife, SwitchTV and Starzplay will continue to be the preferred platforms for cricket in MENA region. After evision secures ICC Tournaments exclusively until 2027, we  now look forward to working with Cricbuzz to transform how cricket is watched, making it more accessible and engaging for fans across the region."

evision is the official broadcaster of the International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments and will host these events on its CricLife “MAX” channels through 2027.

Satyan Gajwani, Vice Chairman of Times Internet said: "We are thrilled to partner with evision to launch CricbuzzTV in the Middle East. Globally, Cricbuzz is synonymous with cricket, and we’re excited to bring a new dimension to the thrill of live cricket to the Middle East. We’re grateful to have evision as a partner, with deep roots, history, and capabilities in the region. Our goal isn’t just to deliver live cricket, but to build a trusted and compelling cricket experience to develop and enliven cricket enthusiasts in the Middle East."

The strategic collaboration between evision and Cricbuzz underscores both entities' dedication to enhancing the sports broadcasting landscape in the Middle East. CricbuzzTV is set to kick off its coverage with the Pakistan Super League, starting next week, which will be broadcast on CricbuzzTV.

STARZ ON is the first streaming platform in the MENA region to carry Red Bull TV channel

Thrill-seeking viewers can brace themselves for an adrenaline rush with evision, the media and entertainment powerhouse of e& life, as they bring the Red Bull TV channel to STARZ ON.

Olivier Bramly, Chief Executive Officer, evision by e& life, said: "We're thrilled to join forces with Red Bull, a brand known for pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations. Together, we're about to ignite a whole new level of entertainment for STARZ ON viewers across the region. This partnership with Red Bull is a game-changer for our MENA audience. We're bringing live events, inspiring stories and exhilarating moments to our consumer.”

Red Bull TV offers much more than just the spills and thrills of action sports. Viewers can look forward to diving into a diverse library of live events,  shows and documentaries exploring extreme sports, music, lifestyle and culture.  

From February 2024,  STARZ ON users can access the Red Bull TV FAST channel on STARZ ON for free. As the first streaming platform in the region to carry the Red Bull FAST TV channel, STARZ ON is offering the extreme sports content channel via its ad-supported streaming  platform.

• Updated app offers rich features, enhanced customer journeys, and personalised experience for customers
• Users can benefit from free international transfers and 1% cash rewards with the e& money card 

e& money, the fintech arm of e& life, introduced the new e& money app, now more advanced and seamless than ever. The financial super app has completely transformed, offering a fresh and customer centric look, with a personalised experience. Renewed app hosts innovative features that make managing your finances easier, faster, and smarter than ever before.

The redesigned e& money app is centered around simplifying everyday financial tasks with its user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation. Customers can now effortlessly manage their finances with just a few taps, whether it is sending funds locally or internationally, paying bills, or making card payments. They can also benefit from free international transfers and one per cent cash rewards with the e& money card. The app will also be available in Arabic shortly after its commercial release, catering to the needs of a wider audience, followed by other languages as well.

Khalifa Al Shamsi, CEO, e& life, said: “We are excited to announce the release of the renewed e& money app, underscoring our dedication to improving accessibility to financial services. This updated application streamlines various financial activities, including cross-border money transfers and prompt bill payments. By prioritising redesigned journeys, personalised features, and increased transparency, our aim is to elevate the daily experiences of our customers. Our ultimate goal is to offer customers simple solutions for their daily financial needs.”

In an exciting development, the new app is unveiling a range of cutting-edge features designed to deliver convenient and personalised experiences, ensuring each user enjoys unique and intuitive navigation for their financial needs.

e& money offers the fastest registration in the region and instant account setup without any fees.

International remittance have become even easier, eliminating unnecessary steps in the process while offering real-time tracking capabilities. Transfers can be in just three clicks. Additionally, customers can embrace hassle-free payments by overcoming the need for pre-funding accounts to complete their transactions.

Customers can add a personal touch to gifting with the option to add cards and messages, enriching with an extra layer of thoughtfulness. From a comprehensive list of billers to allowing users to manage all payments conveniently from one platform, the new app streamlines needs and makes it all simple.

These enhancements reflect e& money’s commitment to delivering the best user experience in the UAE and also paves the way to create a platform which will be enriched with several new products in 2024. All upcoming launches are driven from a customer-centric approach, keeping users’ needs and need of simplicity at the core of its innovation.

In 2023, e& money achieved significant growth and milestones. It witnessed a fourfold increase in transaction volume, and attained the highest monthly active users in the UAE's fintech sector. The platform offers a variety of financial services such as international and local transfers, e& money card, bill payments, gifting and more. 

• haifin's consortium includes 13 banks and two fintech lenders
• Processed over AED 200 billion in transaction value
• haifin will now widen the scope of its success to regions across GCC, MENA and APAC

UAE Trade Connect (UTC), an e& enterprise company and the first commercialised blockchain platform transforming trade finance in the UAE, unveiled its new brand identity, “haifin”, as part of its commitment to extend its innovative solutions beyond the UAE, aiming for a significant presence in APAC, MENA, and GCC regions.

The new brand name, “haifin”, reflects the platform's evolution and carries an ambitious roadmap to expand globally with its fraud-detection solution and further use cases to resolve current market challenges. The rebranding is symbolic of its vision as a leading fintech to connect and protect financial institutions for a more resilient ecosystem.

Salvador Anglada, CEO of e& enterprise, said: “This strategic rebranding reflects e& enterprise's dedication to nurturing scalable cloud-based solutions that drive substantial market impact by supporting and advancing the global and regional fintech space, paving the way for more inclusive, efficient, and secure financial services.

Zul Javaid, CEO of haifin, said: “This rebranding reflects haifin’s mission to serve as the connective tissue in the financial industry. Incorporating AI, FIs and FinTech into its very name, haifin is set to replicate its UAE success in other countries within our region and beyond. The new branding reflects our aspirations to expand our cloud-native and blockchain-based Intellectual Property (IP) to design tailored solutions to support financial institutions into new territories.”

haifin’s solution can manage various types of trade-related documents, which are inspected, validated, and tested for authenticity in real time. Its proprietary technology ensures trust, transparency, and privacy between multiple organisations with a stack of leading-edge technologies deployed locally on e& enterprise’s E1Cloud platform. The robust system validates trade finance transactions, identifies duplication, and combats potential fraud in real time. These capabilities empower banks to make informed lending decisions, increase lending confidence and safeguard funds.

The haifin network has grown from seven banks in 2021 to 15 lending institutions comprising 13 major UAE banks and two fintechs, DP World Financial Services and Beehive. Banking members include Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Al Masraf, Commercial Bank International, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD PJSC, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Invest Bank, Mashreq Corporate & Investment Banking Group, National Bank of Fujairah, RAKBANK, and United Arab Bank, with several more in advanced discussions to join the consortium.

Since its commercial launch in 2021, the platform has inspected transactions worth more than AED 200 billion and identified potential frauds worth several millions of dirhams. The system handles over 4 million data points monthly, and its machine learning capability increases as the dataset grows each month.

Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker GenAI applications to power e& UAE’s services to deliver personalised experiences

e& UAE  today announced a partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to deploy advanced generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies. These technologies are set to create real-time personalised recommendations, offering customised news feeds, product recommendations, and exclusive promotional materials to enhance customer experiences.

In line with the partnership, e& UAE will use Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker to seamlessly integrate a suite of GenAI use cases, personalising recommendations beyond traditional algorithms. Amazon Bedrock is a fully managed service that offers a choice of high-performing foundation models (FMs) from leading AI companies via a single API, along with a broad set of capabilities needed to build GenAI applications with security, privacy, and responsible AI. Amazon SageMaker provides all the machine learning (ML) components in a single toolset. It helps users build, train, and deploy ML models for any use case with fully managed infrastructure, tools, and workflows, ensuring faster production.

The AI-driven innovation analyses intricate customer preferences to present tailor-made product suggestions, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. Furthermore, it will empower customers to pioneer and experiment with GenAI, automating complex operations and providing customer-specific, contemporary solutions within applications.

"Our collaboration with AWS opens exciting possibilities, allowing us to deliver exceptionally unique experiences for our customers with intelligent, personalised recommendations,” said Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer, e& UAE. “By harnessing the power of GenAI, we are shaping the future of customer experience, offering distinctive and captivating services while pioneering novel use cases. This reinforces our position as a leader in the AI era and affirms our commitment to advancing the frontiers of innovation.”

With over 25 years of exceptional expertise in AI and ML technologies, AWS's stellar reputation makes them the ideal partner for e& UAE. AWS provides broad services to build and scale generative AI, such as infrastructure to run AI workloads, pre-trained AI models, and applications with built-in AI capabilities. This collaboration with AWS highlights e& UAE's commitment to staying focused on technological innovation, prioritising customer satisfaction, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in intelligent customer services.

"At AWS, we are thrilled to help e& UAE harness Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker to revolutionise the telco digital landscape. Together, we can explore new pathways for customer interaction and service personalisation,” said Bernard Najm, Vice President, Telco MEA at AWS. “With e& UAE’s dedication to innovation and AWS’s comprehensive set of AI capabilities, we are venturing into an era where GenAI will create new opportunities to deliver enhanced customer experience and improved telecom operations."

e& UAE continues to lead the way in AI integration across its solutions and services. Last year, the telco launched the e& UAE Autonomous Store Experience (EASE), the world’s first autonomous telecom store powered by AI. The company also uses innovations such as AI Voice Authentication, which ensures privacy and security via voice print authentication for e& UAE’s call centres. It also employs an AI-driven recommendation engine for hyper-personalised services on its apps, Smiles and myetisalat, identifying preferred channels, products, and offers based on user behaviour. These innovations highlight e& UAE's commitment to advancing customer experience through cutting-edge AI.

e& and Huawei signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during MWC 2024 to collaborate on building green and energy-efficient networks in the UAE to significantly reduce carbon emissions and contribute to sustainable environmental practices. 

e& will continue to work with Huawei to achieve network decarbonisation across its ICT infrastructure, including radio, core and transport networks, and data centers. The effort to decarbonise the network will adopt a mix of Huawei’s energy-efficient technology innovations and intelligent software features, as well as maximising the use of renewable energy. The companies will also collaborate in hosting a series of knowledge-sharing sessions to exchange insights on climate change and the latest technological advancements and adapt and align network strategies accordingly.

In a pioneering move, e& launched its region’s first net-zero 5G Massive MIMO site using Huawei technology during COP 28 in December 2023, showcasing a tangible commitment to eco-friendly technology deployment.

The partnership is part of e&’s ambition to accelerate the transition to net-zero and underlines the importance of improving network energy performance to meet Net Zero targets.

Sabri Albreiki, Chief Technology Officer of e& International, remarked, "Through our strategic partnership with Huawei, we aim to accelerate the decarbonisation of our ICT infrastructure by deploying their energy-efficient network equipment combined with energy-saving software features, advanced machine learning capabilities, and renewable energy sources. Signing this MoU with Huawei reinforces our joint commitment to a greener, more sustainable future."

Echoing this sentiment, Gavin Wang, President of Huawei e& Global Key Account, stated, " The combined efforts of e& and Huawei exemplify a strong commitment to climate change and sustainable technology. Through our joint initiatives and efforts, we aim to revolutionise the landscape of telecommunications and set new benchmarks for green development."

With an eye on the future, both e& and Huawei reaffirm their unwavering pursuit of green development, with ongoing investments and explorations in sustainable projects that align with e&'s 2030 net-zero ambition.

• AI-powered Microsoft Azure Operator Nexus empowers e& UAE to maximize network investments by reducing TCO and enhancing operational efficiency.
• NEC is the lead systems integrator for the deployment, drawing on its vast experience in building and supporting carrier networks like e& UAE

e& UAE, the telco arm of global technology powerhouse e& group, today announced that it has become the first company outside North America to deploy and reap the benefits of the Microsoft Azure Operator Nexus and Azure Operator 5G Core solutions. The AI-powered solution will enable e& UAE to streamline network service setup, automate operations, and enhance security, ultimately aiming to achieve fully automated, zero-touch network operations.

The implementation cements the strong partnership between Microsoft and e& UAE, established in 2022, marking a major step forward in their shared vision for network transformation. As a Microsoft partner, NEC is the prime systems integrator for the implementation, bringing their wealth of experience in building and supporting large-scale carrier networks like e& UAE.

Azure Operator Nexus is a next-generation, carrier-grade, hybrid cloud platform built to empower telecom operators to modernise and transform their networks. It uses AI to enable operators to use cloud technology to maximise their network investments by lowering the total cost of ownership (TCO) and driving operational efficiency and resiliency. With advanced AI and automation capabilities, it also improves the security of highly distributed, software-based networks. The solution seamlessly integrates with the Azure AIOps portfolio, including the Azure Operator Service Manager, a modern cloud service that simplifies network function by providing clear service configuration and ensuring safe deployment practices. 

The Azure Operator Nexus platform supports certified network functions from multiple vendors as part of the Azure Operator Nexus Ready program.

"We are thrilled to be the first customer to deploy Microsoft’s Azure Operator Nexus and Azure Operator 5G Core solutions," said Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer at e& UAE. "This partnership with Microsoft will enable us to deliver the best possible experience to our customers, and we are excited to see the benefits these technologies will bring. By embracing AI-powered innovation and partnering with Microsoft, e& UAE is leading in network transformation in our region."

The deployment of Azure Operator Nexus and Azure Operator 5G Core solutions will also bring a range of benefits to e&'s business operations in the UAE. The cloud-based platform will enable the telco to rapidly scale its network services. At the same time, the Azure Operator 5G Core solution will provide the foundation for delivering new and innovative services to its customers. Industry use cases will be enabled with 5G network slicing, taking advantage of operational efficiencies with infrastructure and application orchestration while paving the way for future innovation.

"e&'s deployment of Microsoft Azure Operator Nexus and Azure Operator 5G Core solutions are testament to the power of our technology," said Dr. Yousef Khalidi, Corporate Vice President, Azure for Operators, Microsoft. "Microsoft continues to be uniquely positioned to support telco network transformation and to pave the way for operators to use the power of AI and hybrid cloud. Our generative AI models have already been securely deployed in many use cases and applications across Microsoft, including streamlining the management of our core infrastructure, and this is just the start. We are proud to work with e& UAE to deliver the best possible connectivity and services to its customers."

e& and Dell Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to support and strengthen e&’s mobile networks transformation to open technologies using Dell’s Open Telecom Ecosystem Lab (OTEL).

The memorandum was signed by Sabri Albreiki, Chief Technology Officer, e& international and Dennis Hoffman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Telecom Systems Business, Dell Technologies.

The agreement allows e& to explore new avenues to enhance its technological capabilities and utilise the Dell OTEL environment to create, validate and drive innovations that will power the future of the telecommunications sector. Launched in 2022, OTEL is Dell’s state‑of‑the‑art facility dedicated to developing, testing and improving telecommunications solutions through open‑source technology and vendor‑neutral collaboration.

Sabri Albreiki, Chief Technology Officer, e& international said: “The future of telecommunications hinges on an open ecosystem that promises improved flexibility, scalability, better prices, and, more importantly, the ability to remain in a constant state of innovation. Working with Dell’s Open Telecom Ecosystem Lab allows us to build, integrate, validate and continuously improve end‑to‑end telecom solutions for the 5G world and beyond. The MOU further supports our vision to explore new solutions to strengthen our market offerings and pursue industry excellence. Together with Dell, we look forward to ushering in an era of unprecedented possibilities and moving the industry forward.”

Dennis Hoffman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Telecom Systems Business, Dell Technologies, said: “Dell is committed to helping the telecom sector solve the challenges of the future. Nowhere is that mission clearer than in the Dell Open Telecom Ecosystem Lab, which acts as a catalyst for accelerating and simplifying the creation of an open and modern telecom ecosystem. The agreement allows e& to bring competitive solutions to market sooner while supporting open standards. We are pleased to extend this platform to the e& Group and look forward to paving the way for innovation and growth in today’s dynamic telecommunications landscape.”

OTEL was created to help solve the network challenges of today and tomorrow. By working with Dell Technologies as an OTEL partner, communications service providers (CSPs) benefit from a secure, state‑of‑the‑art lab environment that allows for a more comprehensive, seamless testing and faster time to market without scaling up costs.

e& reports record consolidated net profit of AED 10.3 billion growing 3% year-over-year

• Consolidated revenues reached AED 53.8 billion, a growth of 8.3 per cent year-over-year, at constant exchange rates
• Board proposes a total dividend of AED 0.80 per share for FY 2023
• Recommends a new progressive dividend policy to bring the DPS to 89 fils by FY2026

Abu Dhabi: e& today announced its consolidated financial results for fiscal year 2023 reporting a record consolidated net profit of AED 10.3 billion, a growth of 3 per cent year-over-year.

Underlining the Group’s commitment to value creation for its shareholders, e&’s Board of Directors proposes a dividend of AED 0.40 per share for the second half of 2023 representing a total dividend of AED 0.80 per share for FY2023. In addition, the board recommended a new progressive dividend policy with an increment of 3 fils every year starting from year 2024, bringing the DPS to 89 fils by FY2026. This proposal is subject to shareholders’ approval at the Annual General Meeting.

Financial highlights for FY 2023

(*) At constant exchange rates, revenue increased by 8.3 per cent and EBITDA increased by 3.7 per cent year-over-year.

Consolidated revenues reached AED 53.8 billion, a growth of 8.3 per cent year-over-year, at constant exchange rates, underpinned by the Group’s successful business transformation, expanding the business verticals and diversifying the revenue streams.

Moreover, consolidated EBITDA increased by 3.7 per cent year-over-year at constant exchange rates, to AED 26.1 billion, leading to an EBITDA margin of 49 per cent, highlighting the strong profitability of e&’s operations.

Reporting strong growth in subscriber base, e& UAE recorded more than 14 million subscribers an increase of 3 per cent compared to the previous year, and the Group’s aggregate subscribers reached 169 million, an increase of 4 per cent over 2022.

Underlining the Group’s commitment to value creation for its shareholders, e&’s Board of Directors proposes a dividend of AED 0.40 per share for the second half (July to December) of 2023 representing a total dividend of AED 0.80 per share for FY 2023.

Chairman of e&, H.E. Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Alzaabi, said: “In 2023, e& grew from strength to strength. We led technology-driven innovations, navigated challenging global market conditions, and emerged stronger, further solidifying our position as a leading global technology player. Our robust financial performance with a record net profit of AED 10.3 billion, and strong top-line growth of 3 per cent is a testament to our resilience and setting e& on the right path for future growth.”

“We continue to be inspired by UAE leadership; their determination to push boundaries sets a remarkable example of what is possible when a clear vision aligns with excellence in execution. Similarly, our commitment to making e& an embodiment of innovation, progress, and growth remains unwavering. Our vision is grounded in the dual objectives of delivering sustainable business growth and pioneering digital transformation technologies. From cementing our diversified business pillars to introducing new, impactful products and services, we are committed to empowering our 169 million subscribers across our operations,” H.E. Alzaabi added.

Hatem Dowidar, Group Chief Executive Officer of e&, said: “The strong financial performance achieved by e& in 2023, with consolidated revenues reaching AED 53.8 billion, a growth of 8.3 per cent year-over-year, at constant exchange rates, is a strong testament to the success of our business transformation strategy.

“e& continued to thrive as a leader in MEA, remaining one of the world’s most valuable and strongest brands and becoming the fastest-growing technology brand in the region. This highlighted our evolution into a global technology group supported by the strong performance of our brand portfolio. We will continue to push our boundaries to be at the forefront of the digital era by developing next-generation digital connectivity and cutting-edge solutions.”

Dowidar added: “I want to express my appreciation to our talented teams for their efforts and innovative spirit, which remain the driving force behind our success. We also extend our gratitude to our loyal customers and shareholders for their continued trust in our vision. Moving forward, I am confident that our commitment to connecting people, businesses, and communities through technology will continue to drive sustained future growth.”

Key Operational Highlights

In 2023, e& capitalised on every opportunity to address the customers current and future needs, delivering next-generation solutions that enable the successful digital transformation of industries and bring ease and simplicity to people’s lives.

e& has flourished as the crown jewel of Middle Eastern and African (MEA) brands. The 2024 Brand Finance Global 500 Report, confirms e&’s transformation as MEA's Fastest Growing Technology Brand. The annual report on the world’s most valuable and strongest brands highlighted e&'s evolution into a global technology powerhouse that saw its TMT brand portfolio skyrocket to US$17 billion in 2024 cementing it as the most valuable TMT brand portfolio in MEA, marking the Group’s stunning transition from telco to tech-co.

e&'s diverse portfolio and expanding reach, driven by its core telecoms business, e& UAE, and e& international and the specialised business pillars of e& life, e& enterprise, and e& capital, underscore its commitment to innovation and sustainability. e&'s dedication to next-generation technologies, including AI-driven innovation, cloud services, cybersecurity, and IoT, positions it at the forefront of the digital era.

e&

e& subsidiary, PTCL, acquired a 100 per cent stake in Telenor Pakistan, creating innovation and market expansion synergies. (Completion of the transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and certain closing conditions.) e& also signed a binding agreement to acquire PPF Telecom assets in Europe. In addition to becoming the largest shareholder in Vodafone, e&’s strategic agreements included acquiring a majority stake in Careem's Super App and completing the ServiceMarket acquisition. e& is also the Most Valuable Brand Portfolio in the MEA region, worth over $17 billion, according to the 2024 Brand Finance Global 500 Report released earlier this year.

In line with its sustainability goals, e& committed to net zero Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions across its operations by 2040. e& launched Project Life, its sustainable procurements programme, with the goal of reducing Scope 3 emissions by 25 per cent by 2030. In addition, e&’s green initiatives include the Innovation Hub for Power Solutions and eco-friendly Green SIM Cards.

e& achieved a new 5G milestone at GITEX Global 2023 with a download speed exceeding 13Gbps, introduced the world’s first AI-empowered autonomous telecom store 'EASE,' and launched the Electric Vehicle (EV) charging service 'Charge&Go.' Collaborations with Ericsson, Earthlink, Intel, and global alliances in AI for telecoms showcase e&'s commitment to technological advancements.

On the global front, e& joined forces with SK Telecom, Deutsche Telekom, and Singtel to launch a global alliance in AI for telecoms. This alliance will pave the way for innovations and co-development of the Telco AI platform. A partnership with Indosat promises to improve voice communication between Indonesia and the UAE by providing high-quality IDD services.

The Group continued reaffirming its commitment to gender diversity through collaborations with Nokia and UN Women with the 'Women in Leadership' programme to increase the number of women in decision-making roles within the tech sector.

e&'s achievements were celebrated at the Carrier Community Global Awards 2023 by being named 'Middle East Operator of the Year' for the third consecutive year. Its network technology prowess was also recognised with the World Teleports Association's Tier 4 certification for its Tawi al Saman and Jebel Ali teleports.

For its excellence in governance and best practice, the Group's legal and compliance team won 'Middle East In-House Legal Team of the Year' and 'Technology, Media and Telecommunications In-House Legal Team of the Year' at the Thomson Reuters ALB Middle East Law Awards 2023.

e&’s Investor Relations (IR) team won first place for ‘Best IR Reporting Digital Category Large-Cap Middle East’ at the 2023 Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) Awards. This prestigious accolade recognises e&'s outstanding dedication to enhancing transparency, accessibility, and innovation in its investor communication.

e& UAE

e&’s telecom brand in the UAE emerged as the strongest telecoms brand in the world, with a AAA rating.

Technological milestones include completing the world's first 1.6Tbps per wavelength trial on Optical Transport Network, the commercial deployment of 5G Standalone (SA) for mobile users, and the successful 5G SA service launch for Fixed Wireless Users (FWA), enabling seamless voice and data services across UAE.

At COP28, e& UAE was the first to deploy the first net-zero 5G Massive MIMO site in the MENA region, integrated a zero-footprint RAN site within its network, and contributed to UAE's Net Zero by 2050 initiative. Cybersecurity efforts included an alliance with the UAE Cyber Security Council and the graduation of the first cohort from the Cyber Sniper Programme.

As an innovator, e& UAE also opened a Mobile Security Operation Centre, deployed Microsoft Azure Multi-Access Edge Compute solution and received TM Forum Silver certification for Open API compliance, the first in the MENA region. Noteworthy achievements include successful trials of high-capacity transmission networks, 5G milestones, and implementing the first 5G SatComs in the region.

The company was recognised as 'Employer of the Year' at the GCC HR Awards 2023 and continuously exceeded its Emiratisation target, with over 53 per cent Emiratisation rate. Digital product and service diversification led to the growth of the 'Smiles' online marketplace, reaching more than 3.5 million, and 'GoChat' super app, achieving more than 7.5 million downloads.

e& UAE also introduced 'uTap', a payment solution for SMBs and launched tailored solutions for start-ups and enterprises including Wi-Fi as a service to improve business connectivity and continued with its innovative platform, 'Hello Business Pitch’, to support the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in the UAE. In alignment with the UAE leadership's vision of tolerance and coexistence, the company participated in 'Together in Emirates of Zayed'. It introduced the 'Five' app exclusively for blue-collar workers using the 'Five' SIM.

Keeping up its network leadership, e& UAE was ranked no. 1 globally in 5G mobile download speeds (December 2023) by Ookla.

e& international

e& international, in collaboration with Circles, launched the digital brand 'Onic' in Pakistan, enhancing digital experiences for Mobile Network Operators’ (MNOs) digital-native customers. e& international launched the 'e& Partner Networks' programme to support global telecom operators like Tunisie Telecom, Sudatel, Perfectum Mobile, and Azercell Telecom across five countries (Tunisia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Sudan, Senegal).

Strategic partnerships, including Vodafone Business, resulted in the acquisition of a major customer and plans to collaborate on software-driven networks for multinational enterprises. etisalat by e& Egypt partnered with the Sovereign Fund of Egypt to launch 'Erada Microfinance,' expanding financial services for micro and small enterprises. It also deployed a Smart Connected Site to reduce fuel costs and CO2 emissions by up to 40 per cent, as well as decrease reliance on fossil fuels.

PTCL and Vodafone initiated a strategic collaboration to develop end-to-end IoT services, accelerating enterprise digital enablement in Pakistan. e& international, through its joint venture with Circles, launched digital sub-brands, elevating the digital experiences of MNOs' customers.

e& international also established the AI Centre of Excellence (AICoE) for advanced analytics, leveraging machine learning and AI solutions to offer personalised use cases to global clients in telecoms and other industries. The company maintained its leadership in customer experience, securing the number one net promoter score (NPS) position in key markets.

e& life

e& life reached new heights in 2023, redefining media, entertainment, and digital financial services. evision with STARZPLAY continued pioneering MENA entertainment, acquiring exclusive sports rights for major cricketing broadcasts, launching the 24/7 GolfLife channel, and securing exclusive MENA broadcasting rights for popular documentaries. evision also unveiled its own OTT free-to-watch streaming platform, STARZ ON, to bring regional, Hollywood, Bollywood, English, Arabic, and French content in addition to sports all for free. OTT platforms were introduced in Pakistan, and a strategic agreement with WATCH IT expanded STARZPLAY in e& operating countries.

e& life, a fintech leader, pledged sustainability with the MENA Fintech Association, joining META, Mastercard, and Visa. The alliance commits to sustainability integration, audits, awareness, collaboration on initiatives, and promoting sustainable fintech products. e& money partnered with Mastercard to launch this digital-first prepaid card, marking it as the first telco-backed issuance in the UAE. The card offers the most rewarding prepaid card loyalty programme in the UAE, providing customers with a one percent cash reward on all card spends. Additionally, there has been a significant growth in remittance transactions compared to last year.

e& enterprise

 In 2023, e& enterprise confirmed its role to drive the digital transformation landscape in the region with milestones like the revamp of the e& enterprise Innovation Centre, the launch of the AI as a service proposition, collaborations with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and partnerships with Maxbyte, Al Masraf, Tap Payments, Snowflake and Informatica strengthening its position in Industry 4.0, manufacturing, data and digital payments.

e& enterprise also played a pivotal role in in advancing sustainability initiatives by launching its ‘sustainability as service’ proposition in partnership with Microsoft and strengthen further by a partnership with World Wide Generation (WWG) to launch a global sustainability exchange platform integrating sustainability data, solutions, and finances. e& enterprise also launched the Sustainability Consultancy Programme offering qualifying organisations a free consultancy and GHG assessment to promote and foster sustainable business practice in the region.

e& enterprise was also recognised as a major player in the IDC Worldwide CPaaS Marketscape Vendor Assessment for its customer experience proposition engageX which has also expanded its footprint to serve clients in Saudi Arabia.

A JV with Be spin Global was also completed solidifying e& enterprise's leadership position in the regional cloud migration domain Bespin Global was also recognised as a Visionary in the Public Cloud IT Transformation Services.

Acquiring a majority stake in Beehive, e& enterprise entered the SME lending market while UAE Trade Connect (UTC) consortium continues to grow with the addition of non-banking members such as DP World reaching a total of 15 members.

Through Help AG, the cybersecurity arm of e& enterprise, which was recognised as an MSS leader in IDC GCC Marketscape assessment, the company launched UNIFY SaaS platform, expanded to Egypt, and established the biggest cyber defence centre in the region.

e& capital

e& capital continued to drive innovation and investments in promising startups, enabling cutting-edge technologies. At the forefront of technology innovation, it participated in the $25 million Series A funding round for Ikigai Labs, a startup committed to bringing generative AI to tabular data.

e& capital also led a Series A funding round for Maxbyte, driving the industry 4.0 revolution in the MENA region. Additionally, e& capital led a Series B funding round for Airalo, the global eSIM marketplace enabling travellers with seamless connectivity.

In 2023, e& achieved significant milestones, marking its successful evolution into a global technology company and maintaining its status as one of the world’s most valuable and strongest brands. The Group’s commitment to excellence, innovation, sustainability and robust financial performance exemplifies its leadership in the fast-changing digital landscape and reflects its mission to shape a promising future.

e& Carrier & Wholesale introduced Smart Connect Service - Bandwidth on Demand (BoD), allowing operators to scale their connectivity requirements on the go.

Nabil Baccouche, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, e&, said: “The launch of this service marks an important leap toward empowering our customers with the online self-service tools to enable their digital ambitions. By putting control in their hands, we facilitate our partners with unparalleled agility and flexibility to harness the bandwidth needed to boost their operations, accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies. This demonstrates e&'s commitment to driving innovation and digital transformation throughout the region.”

Traditional network solutions often struggle to meet the urgent and fluctuating bandwidth demands of today’s businesses. With the rapid adoption of cloud-based applications, remote work models, and online services, organisations require connectivity that adapts to their dynamic needs. e&'s Smart Connect service - Bandwidth on Demand (BoD) addresses this critical gap by offering unmatched flexibility and control over bandwidth provisioning.

Smart Connect - BoD offers Self-service portal for Layer 1 & Layer 2 international connectivity of up to 100G with just a few clicks with automatic provisioning. It provides customers with Pay-per-use model with the option of elasticity, scalability, and scheduling for an enhanced customer experience.

This service is MEF-compliant, guaranteeing smooth connectivity and adherence to industry standards for maximum network stability and efficiency. It is targeted towards the development of NaaS platform, a market which is expected to reach US$7 billion by 2029, indicating explosive growth with an increased adoption of flexible network solutions.

e&, Telecom Egypt, Telin and a major Indian operator have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form a consortium with the aim to develop the ICE IV Project. This new Data Center (DC) to DC system shall seamlessly connect the Intra Asia region to India and the Middle East on a unique route that demonstrates the true spirit of collaboration between these regions.

Spanning approximately 11,000km, this new system plans to deploy the latest open cable technologies and subsea ROADMs to interconnect Indonesia and Singapore to India, Oman, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The ICE IV Project will adopt an entirely new route through the Sunda Strait and become the first international cable to land in Kochi, India in decades; offering an alternate resilient route and new international gateway. Terrestrial extensions are being considered also include links between the Middle East and Egypt and between Kochi and Chennai, together making this ICE IV Project unique. The target ready for service date is Q4, 2027.

In recent years, the surge in demand, coupled with inventory scarcity has moved the global bandwidth market to thrive and become the main driver for the construction of new subsea cable systems. As subsea connectivity evolves, the PoP to PoP design sets the new standard, where this architecture serves the requirements of content providers and large data consumers much better. The ICE IV Project shall adopt these principles providing seamless connectivity, extraordinary bandwidth, and network security through diversity.

This very significant milestone for the project took place during the prestigious Capacity Middle East event where the MOU was signed by top officials from the four market leading companies; Nabil Baccouche - Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer at e&, Seif Mounib Vice President of International and Wholesale at Telecom Egypt, Budi Satria Dharma Purba, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Telin, and the Indian operator. The signing event demonstrates all parties’ commitment to invest and grow the global bandwidth market to better serve their customers.

Nabil Baccouche, Group Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer at e&, said:

“With ICE IV Project, we're redefining the connectivity map, bringing continents closer than ever before, and unlocking bandwidth access for billions of people. With our commitment to making SmartHub a location of choice as one of the largest neutral carrier hub, the ICE IV Project will further accelerate connectivity. The new DC to DC system will enable us to increase capabilities and global capacity further to meet the evolving requirements of customers across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and Americas.”.”

Mohamed Nasr, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Telecom Egypt, commented:

 “Since the start of subsea fiber optic evolutions more than 30 years ago, Telecom Egypt has been instrumental in enabling and supporting the formation of subsea projects, particularly those connecting Southeast Asia to Europe. This particular route is considered the core infrastructure connecting the largest continents, and one of the major and continuously expanding subsea routes. Telecom Egypt is honored to collaborate with ICE partners on the construction of this remarkable project. Being a founding member of ‘ICE IV’ is a testament of our profound belief of the importance of this critical infrastructure. We are providing open-access to more than 20 subsea cables landing in Egypt with unique, diverse landing and state-of-the-art transit international infrastructure that will be part of the planned design. Furthermore, ICE IV Project will enable us to extend our footprint and further diversify our subsea infrastructure portfolio to promptly address the ever-growing demand for global connectivity.”

Budi Satria Dharma Purba, CEO at Telin, stated:

“Customer nowadays demand the utmost best user experience, pushing providers to innovate and build low latency network on diverse and unique routes. This compels Telin to envision Indonesia as the future hub in this Indo-Pacific region. We can create new opportunities for all ICE cable systems by integrating it with relevant countries and systems. Indonesian Cable Express will be the bridge. The Telin ICE initiative ensures an efficient cost structure and faster deployment. The ICE program involves 7 separate cable systems connecting Indonesia to all potential markets. During the next 5 years, the system deployment will start, each adhering to 4 fundamental principles: DC to DC Access, Ultra Low Latency, Different Landings and Unique Routes.”

Vodafone and e& have joined forces to provide other operators with comprehensive, fully managed voice solutions to support their international voice traffic requirements and growth plans, as well as help meet the growing demand for voice over 4G/5G (VoLTE) services.

According to industry body the GSMA, VoLTE adoption is forecast to increase to over 70% of global mobile connections by 2030. This trend is fuelled by operators switching off legacy networks in favour of 5G and the need to provide end users with consistently reliable trans-border managed voice services.

By harnessing their collective technical expertise, partnerships and complementary geographical footprint, Vodafone and e& will provide operators with a robust, scalable, and consistent managed voice service worldwide. Operators sourcing combined services from Vodafone and e& can be assured of predictable costs (no matter the region), optimised inbound revenues, streamlined regulatory compliance, enhanced fraud protection, and seamless integration of innovative services through a leading cloud-based architecture.

Ninian Wilson, CEO of Vodafone Procurement and Connectivity, said: “Managing cross-border voice is increasingly complex due to new regulations, providing protection against international scams, and the need to migrate to 5G services.  Operators are seeking trusted partners to navigate these changes, while growing their businesses. Vodafone’s strategic partnership with e& offers them a single point of contact and a dependable service globally during this transition to support them in managing changing business complexities.”

Nabil Baccouche, Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, e&, said: “This collaboration between Vodafone and e& sets a new industry benchmark, extending beyond predictable cost and improved security. It focuses on empowering operators to confidently adapt to the evolving voice landscape.

“By leveraging our established capabilities, state of the art platforms, and extensive industry knowledge, we provide operators with a definite way to achieve operational excellence. Working together, e& and Vodafone grant operators’ easy access to our combined skills and worldwide presence, enabling them to provide cutting-edge voice services, thereby seamlessly transforming their businesses for the future.”

This collaboration also offers operators enhanced fraud protection based on industry-leading processes and the latest advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) functionalities. As active members of the Global Leaders Forum (GLF), both companies play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s fraud mitigation strategies, leveraging their extensive expertise.

Today’s announcement builds on an agreement Vodafone and e& unveiled in October last year detailing how the two companies will jointly market, sell and service businesses and public sector organisations in support of their digital transformations. 

SmartHub to become a new international gateway and transit zone for carriers and hyperscalers

e& Carrier & Wholesale announced the expansion of its Tier III SmartHub data centre  to the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi, providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and connectivity to support the entire region’s digital ecosystem.

The strategic expansion further solidifies e&'s global network enhancing its ability to serve businesses across various industry verticals. The upcoming data centre in Abu Dhabi  will be the fifth th Tier III data centre alongside the existing ones in Fujairah 1 and 2, Dubai, and Kalba.

With the new SmartHub location in Abu Dhabi it accelerates digital adoption in the country offering geo-redundancy and added value for customers with low latency and high-speed internet.

Nabil Baccouche, e& Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer commenting on the launch, said: “Our footprint expansion is aligned with e&’s long term vision of creating a digitally empowered world through innovation and digitisation. With the United Arab Emirates today playing a key role in the global economy, we are committed to delivering world-class connectivity solutions, facilitating global trade and investment. The hi-tech infrastructure and strategic location of Abu Dhabi will be a valuable asset to our customers and the wider business community.”

The new Abu Dhabi facility is Uptime Institute Tier III Certified, complying with the highest industry standards of data centre performance and availability with an ESTIDAMA Pearl rating of 4 for sustainable design, construction, and operation, as well as a USGBC LEED Gold certification, adhering to strict environmental standards.

e& enterprise has announced that it is the official Host Partner for the upcoming International Data Corporation (IDC) Middle East CIO Summit 2024.

Taking place in Dubai on February 21-22 under the theme 'The Future of IT: Rethinking Digitalisation for an AI Everywhere World', the 17th annual edition of this highly anticipated event will underscore the imperative role of digitalisation and AI in setting the stage for previously unimaginable improvements in efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

Miguel A. Villalonga, COO of e& enterprise, said: “I am delighted to announce our role as Host Partner for the IDC Middle East CIO Summit 2024 in Dubai, a testament to our commitment to driving the digital transformation landscape in the region. This event underscores our dedication to shaping the future of IT, where artificial intelligence will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. It's an honour to lead and contribute to discussions that will define the technological landscape of tomorrow.”

“We are thrilled to welcome e& enterprise on board as our Host Partner for this year's edition of the IDC Middle East CIO Summit,” said Jyoti Lalchandani, IDC's group vice president and regional managing director for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa. “e& enterprise has expanded its portfolio in the highly competitive digital transformation space and is currently playing a major role in accelerating the region's digital journey and facilitating the shift toward AI. The CIO Summit has been the platform of choice for industry leaders across the Middle East for the past 17 years, and together with e& enterprise and our other partners, we aim to empower the ICT ecosystem to develop their capabilities and thrive in the ever-evolving digital era.”

"Generative AI will be a main discussion point on the agenda as the technology unleashes a new wave of disruption across industries. In addition to AI, expert speakers will showcase proven best-practice strategies around a myriad of critical technologies that are shaping transformation. The event will explore the evolving role of IT leaders in today's increasingly AI-infused landscape, offering expert guidance on navigating challenges, adapting to shifting business environments, and crafting innovative solutions."

The IDC Middle East CIO Summit 2024 will host the region's most influential tech leaders, experts, and visionaries, promising a truly immersive experience. Discussions will cover the pulsating heart of the modern ICT landscape, with dedicated sessions exploring topics such as digital infrastructure, DevOps strategies, predictive analytics, enterprise IT transformation, low-code/no-code platforms, omni-experience transformation, cybersecurity policies, regulations, and compliance, technology buyer trends, application modernisation strategies, AI and the tech revolution, effective hybrid cloud deployment, sustainability, digital resilience, and tech architectures for success.

evision powers a new experience with TV channels plus Video on Demand content, becoming the home of Hotstar Specials in the MENA region

Viewers across MENA can look forward to a wave of high-quality entertainment as evision, the UAE's leading media and entertainment streaming service, and Disney Star, India's leading media and entertainment company, announced today a strategic partnership. This partnership redefines the entertainment landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), offering viewers access to unparalleled content library while making evision the most comprehensive destination for the region’s entertainment needs.

This partnership unlocks a diverse world of content, starting with an extensive channel portfolio from Disney Star. Popular linear channels such as Star Plus HD, Asianet Middle East, Star Gold and Star Vijay will be accessible to UAE subscribers on elife and Switch TV. Subsequently, these channels will also be available on evision’s OTT streaming platform, STARZ ON, across the GCC region. Disney Star’s linear channels will be available on Asiana packages in the UAE and MENA region.

In addition, this collaboration will also provide viewers with access to the most popular on- demand content, including the latest premium originals and an extensive library from the Hotstar Specials catalogue specifically tailored for South Asian audiences in the MENA region.

This collaboration transcends mere content expansion; it ushers in a revolutionary entertainment destination destined to captivate audiences across the region with licensing rights for Advertising-based Video on Demand (AVOD) and Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels offered throughout MENA.

Olivier Bramly, CEO, evision, said: “The strategic alliance with Disney Star expands our premium content and enhances the entertainment destination for audiences across MENA. This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to delivering the best in TV entertainment. evision enables the audiences across multiple platforms and services to experience the best of South Asian entertainment and Sports.”

“We are thrilled to further extend the reach of our compelling and multi-lingual content portfolio in the MENA region through an enhanced collaboration with evision. The MENA region has shown great interest in our series and format shows, broadcasted on our leading TV channels across languages. In addition to our much-loved channel offerings, we are excited to introduce our most sought-after Hotstar Specials to viewers in the region. This collaboration with evision reflects our ongoing commitment to engaging with our audience and represents a significant stride in that direction,” said Gurjeev Singh Kapoor, Head – Distribution & International, India, Disney Star.

With this landmark partnership, evision and Disney Star mark a new era in MENA's entertainment landscape. Viewers can look forward to a universe of stories, all from the comfort of wherever they prefer to relax and enjoy content.

This strategic collaboration signifies a defining moment in evision's journey, solidifying its position as a pioneer in delivering world-class entertainment to MENA. Together, we embark on a thrilling narrative, one that promises to enthrall audiences and rewrite the entertainment landscape.

evision powers a new experience with TV channels plus Video on Demand content, becoming the home of Hotstar Specials in the MENA region

Viewers across MENA can look forward to a wave of high-quality entertainment as evision, the UAE's leading media and entertainment streaming service, and Disney Star, India's leading media and entertainment company, announced today a strategic partnership. This partnership redefines the entertainment landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), offering viewers access to unparalleled content library while making evision the most comprehensive destination for the region’s entertainment needs.

This partnership unlocks a diverse world of content, starting with an extensive channel portfolio from Disney Star. Popular linear channels such as Star Plus HD, Asianet Middle East, Star Gold and Star Vijay will be accessible to UAE subscribers on elife and Switch TV. Subsequently, these channels will also be available on evision’s OTT streaming platform, STARZ ON, across the GCC region. Disney Star’s linear channels will be available on Asiana packages in the UAE and MENA region.

In addition, this collaboration will also provide viewers with access to the most popular on- demand content, including the latest premium originals and an extensive library from the Hotstar Specials catalogue specifically tailored for South Asian audiences in the MENA region.

This collaboration transcends mere content expansion; it ushers in a revolutionary entertainment destination destined to captivate audiences across the region with licensing rights for Advertising-based Video on Demand (AVOD) and Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels offered throughout MENA.

Olivier Bramly, CEO, evision, said: “The strategic alliance with Disney Star expands our premium content and enhances the entertainment destination for audiences across MENA. This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to delivering the best in TV entertainment. evision enables the audiences across multiple platforms and services to experience the best of South Asian entertainment and Sports.”

“We are thrilled to further extend the reach of our compelling and multi-lingual content portfolio in the MENA region through an enhanced collaboration with evision. The MENA region has shown great interest in our series and format shows, broadcasted on our leading TV channels across languages. In addition to our much-loved channel offerings, we are excited to introduce our most sought-after Hotstar Specials to viewers in the region. This collaboration with evision reflects our ongoing commitment to engaging with our audience and represents a significant stride in that direction,” said Gurjeev Singh Kapoor, Head – Distribution & International, India, Disney Star.

With this landmark partnership, evision and Disney Star mark a new era in MENA's entertainment landscape. Viewers can look forward to a universe of stories, all from the comfort of wherever they prefer to relax and enjoy content.

This strategic collaboration signifies a defining moment in evision's journey, solidifying its position as a pioneer in delivering world-class entertainment to MENA. Together, we embark on a thrilling narrative, one that promises to enthrall audiences and rewrite the entertainment landscape.

e& enterprise and Burjeel Holdings, one of the leading healthcare services providers in the MENA region, today announced two landmark collaborations aimed at redefining healthcare in the UAE and beyond.. These include the launch of a pioneering telemedicine services project and a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU), both of which will revolutionise the realm of healthcare delivery.

The telemedicine services project exemplifies cutting-edge innovation in healthcare technology. Focusing on the development of a sophisticated cloud-based telemedicine application, the initiative aims to improve patient access to medical services by enabling remote medical care. It represents a transformative approach to healthcare that prioritises accessibility and efficiency across the region.

The MoU was signed by Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise and Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings  in the presence of Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e& and Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman, Burjeel Holdings.  This MoU signifies a strategic alliance to promote sustainable healthcare solutions. The partnership emphasises advanced telehealth, remote patient care monitoring solutions and achieving sustainable healthcare goals in  chronic disease management.

Alberto Araque, CEO of e& enterprise IoT & AI, said: "We are embarking on a journey of profound transformation in healthcare delivery, in partnership with Burjeel Holdings. These collaborations are not just milestones, but catalysts for a new era of healthcare where technology becomes a cornerstone of patient care. We envision a future where our advanced telehealth solutions go beyond bridging the gap between healthcare professionals and patients, to also redefine the healthcare experience, with the goal of leading the industry towards a more connected, sustainable and patient-centric future, where technology and healthcare converge to create unparalleled value for our communities and the environment".

Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings, said: “Our partnership with e& enterprise is not just about bringing advanced technology into the healthcare sector; it’s about transforming the way we deliver care to our patients. By integrating sophisticated telehealth and remote patient monitoring systems, we are set to enhance patient access, improve care quality, and streamline healthcare delivery. Our vision is to establish a patient-centric, technology-enabled healthcare model that not only sets new industry standards but also addresses crucial societal and environmental challenges. Through this venture, we aim to reduce carbon footprint and build a more sustainable and accessible healthcare future for the region.”

The collaboration is expected to enhance patient access to healthcare services, significantly increase operational efficiency through integrated telehealth solutions and improve the quality of care through remote patient monitoring. The partnership also aims to streamline communication between healthcare professionals, promote a more efficient healthcare delivery system and establish a patient-centric, technology-enabled healthcare model that sets new industry benchmarks.

In addition, these joint efforts address vital societal and environmental challenges. They aim to reduce the carbon footprint associated with patient travel and hospital visits by increasing the use of telehealth solutions. The initiative also includes the implementation of eco-friendly healthcare practices through telemedicine, contributing to a more sustainable healthcare delivery model. 

etisalat by e& announced two new fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) plans – 5G and 10G – that are set to significantly enhance the connectivity experience for consumers with ultra-fast fibre internet.

Khaled El Khouly Chief Consumer Officer, etisalat by e& said: “The new fibre internet plans 5G and 10G reflect our commitment to customers, providing an opportunity to better cater to their needs and giving them the best digital experience with the highest possible connection speeds.”

With the launch of 5 and 10 Gigabit per second speeds, etisalat by e& maintains its position as an innovator and disruptor in communications technology in the region, as it becomes the first provider to introduce speeds exceeding 1 Gigabit per second in the UAE.

eLife 5G and 10G – the most powerful performance network plans from etisalat by e&

The eLife 5Gbps plan, priced at AED 1799 per month excl. VAT on a 24-month plan, offers download speeds of 5 Gigabits per second, and the new eLife 10G plan, priced at AED 2,699 per month, excl. VAT on a 24-month plan, connects customers to the network at 10 Gigabits per second. Both plans come with unlimited calls to local and national fixed lines, Full Home Wi-Fi, to blanket customers’ homes with strong Wi-Fi and is also packed with over 300 TV channels, including free-to-air channels, 4K channels, premium TV like OSN CricLife, GolfLife, Starzplay Sports, Abu Dhabi Sports Premium Channels and more.

“With the launch of ground-breaking 5Gbps and 10Gbps speeds, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible. This latest innovation reflects our commitment to cutting-edge connectivity, using a brand new XGS fibre network, we believe it will set new benchmarks in the industry. We invite everyone interested in unlocking the power 10Gbps fibre Internet speed to experience for themselves how these speeds represent the future of connectivity," said El Khouly.

Held in Riyadh, CX World Forum to gather industry leaders and decision-makers to explore the future of customer experience

e& enterprise announced today its participation as a strategic partner  at the highly anticipated Customer Experience (CX) World Forum, scheduled from 24 to 25 January 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Organised by the Saudi CX Association, the second edition of the CX World Forum brings together global brands, innovators, and thought leaders to discuss advances in customer experience strategies and solutions in the digital-first world. Hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce with the support of His Excellency Dr Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, Minister of Commerce of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the forum attracts participation from various government entities and private sector organisations across various industries. It aims to foster knowledge exchange and discourse surrounding the latest customer experience best practices and innovations.

Tareq Alangari, CEO,  e& enterprise, Saudi Arabia, said: "We are delighted to partner with the Saudi CX Association as sponsors of the Customer Experience World Forum. This event is an essential platform for exchanging invaluable insights and strategies in elevating customer experiences today. At e& enterprise, we are committed to leading the way by setting new standards and empowering businesses in Saudi Arabia to create remarkable customer journeys. Our participation in the CX World Forum exemplifies our unwavering dedication to fulfilling this objective.”

During the summit, e& enterprise will showcase its latest offerings aimed at cultivating sustainable customer experiences. “The CX World Forum is the ideal venue to engage with the industry’s brightest minds, build impactful partnerships, examine real-world challenges and solutions, and lay the groundwork to drive customer-centric transformation. By tapping into this opportunity, we aim to fuel mutual growth, optimise operations through collaborative insights, and cement Saudi Arabia's position at the forefront of CX excellence.”

Abdulaziz Al-Shamsan, CEO, Customer Experience World Forum, said: "We are thrilled to have e& enterprise’s support as our strategic partner. As a leader in customer-driven solutions, e& enterprise brings unmatched expertise that will truly impact and shape the discussions that will take place at the event. Their insights and offerings will empower both public and private sector firms to revolutionise how they engage customers and deliver value. The presence of e& enterprise underscores our collaborative effort to cement Saudi Arabia as a global hub driving innovation across customer experience.”

e& enterprise offers a wide range of customer experience tools, including CX consultancy, CPaaS, and CCaaS solutions. Business leaders and organisations looking to elevate their CX strategies can explore e& enterprise's cutting-edge products and services by visiting the e& enterprise booth at A11. Furthermore, visitors can register for the upcoming CX World Forum via their website: https://cxworld.sa

Home and business broadband services will soon get an uplift with a 50GPON network technology upgrade which will deliver speeds up to 50Gbps. etisalat by e& have made this possible with the successful completion of Middle East’s first symmetric 50G PON (50-Gigabit-capable passive optical networks) broadband service.

PON is the fiber optic technology that delivers broadband connections of 1 Gigabit and beyond. The access speed of PON over a single wavelength has increased almost 100 times, and each generational upgrade in PON technology-expected every 8 to 10 years- is driven by the constant increase in bandwidth demand.

50G PON is defined by the International Telecommunication Union Telecommunication Standardisation Sector (ITU-T) as the next-generation PON after XG(S)-PON (10-Gigabit-capable passive optical networks). It is also a key technology for F5G-A (Fixed 5th Generation Advanced) defined by European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer, etisalat by e&, said: “Currently, the mainstream technology is XG(S)-PON. However, with the rapid development of new digital services in recent years, such as glasses-free 8K 3D, ultra-fast cloud storage, and AR/VR, the research and development of next-generation access technologies has become increasingly important. Therefore, 50G PON emerges into a common choice in the industry. Compared to XG(S)-PON, 50G PON not only boosts an increase in the bandwidth by five times, but also reduces the latency by 10 times.”

etisalat by e& conducted testing on various 50G PON capabilities and the network will be qualified to deploy 50GPON.  All indicators have reached an industry-leading level, with the maximum line rate approaching the theoretical limit defined in the 50G PON standard. The optical power budget meets the Optical Distribution Network (ODN) application specifications in live networks and supports the coexistence of 50G PON and XG(S)-PON terminals, enabling to achieve a single integrated network.

As part of its transition to becoming a digital telco, etisalat by e& has been continuously investing in its network and technologies. “By adopting the latest 50G PON solution, we are providing premium digital services to our customers at the same time giving them the opportunity in the future to enjoy download speeds up to 50 Gbps, amplifying their overall experience,” added Murshed. 

As a pioneer in network technology and services, etisalat by e& successfully completed multiple cloud RAN (Radio Access Network) trials providing network innovation and agility to operators and enterprises to improve performance in the 5G ecosystem with ultra-reliable and low-latency communications.

With the evolution of 5G networks towards cloud-native architecture, one of the enablers of this evolution is the adoption of Cloud RAN. These trials conducted for the first time in Middle East and Africa (MEA) region are a major step in RAN innovation and openness allowing interoperation between cellular network equipment provided by different vendors.

Marwan bin Shakar, Senior Vice President, Access Network Development, etisalat by e&, said: “We are excited to announce our successful proof of concepts of Cloud RAN solutions. This is a great milestone in the journey of innovation within our industry to leverage the inter-operability and tailored nature of Cloud RAN, as we further embrace our commitment to provide our customers with the latest in digital innovations and enhanced experiences. The Cloud RAN solution will allow us to further innovate our services to expand into different real time applications and provide the best solutions with high-speeds and lower latencies.”

Cloud RAN, a new radio access technology based on centralised cloud computing benefits network operators and end users with the flexibility of the RAN deployment on the same infrastructure to run other cloud-based applications. This provides scalability with regards to the traffic demand, cost-efficiency with regards to capital and operational expenses in the long-term including power efficiency enabling innovation in the 5G eco-system.

Cloud RAN enables the use of open and interoperable RAN interfaces along with the cloud-based software solution for the baseband computing system. The baseband computing functionality is split into Distributed Unit (DU) and the Centralised Unit (CU) which is fully cloud-native enabling the use of “Commercial-off-the-Shelf” (COTS) server.

In addition, etisalat by e& was able to test and verify the performance of another critical element related to the Hardware Acceleration Technology used in CloudRAN dubbed as lookaside and in-line acceleration for the L1 physical layer processing.

• e& crowned as the fastest growing tech brand in MEA region
• e& most valuable brand portfolio in MEA, touching $17 billion in brand value
• etisalat by e& ranked no.1 and the strongest telecom brand globally (AAA rating)
• etisalat by e& strongest brand in MEA across all categories
  
  

With the successful transformation of e& to a technology group, e& has flourished into a leader of Middle Eastern and African (MEA) brands. The 2024 Brand Finance Global 500 Report unveiled at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos today confirmed e& as MEA’s Fastest Growing Technology Brand and the most valuable brand portfolio in MEA.

The annual report on the world’s most valuable and strongest brands highlighted e&'s evolution into a global technology and investment group fuelled by a performance that saw its brand portfolio skyrocket to US$17 billion in 2024. The 15 per cent increase from last year solidifies stakeholder confidence and cements e&’s position as the Most Valuable Brand Portfolio in Middle East Africa 2024.

Hatem Dowidar, GCEO of e&, said: “The renewed endorsement from Brand Finance is yet another sign of the successful transformation of the company into a global technology group. We launched the e& brand only two years ago, and it is wonderful to see the brand’s vitality and strength in the technology sector in MEA after such a short period. We are also similarly delighted with etisalat by e& being ranked as the strongest telecom brand in the world. Great achievements now, and of course this only increases our aspirations for the future.”

e&'s evolution from telecom brand leader to MEA’s fastest-growing tech brand underscores the progress of the Group’s transformation. Dowidar said that to better serve the needs of its diverse customers, e& has a lot more in store as it continues to roll out innovations and strengthen its position in emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and cloud computing.

In addition to the accolades e& received, the Group’s CEO, Hatem Dowidar, has also been recognised by Brand Finance as the number one ranked telecom leader globally on the Brand Guardianship Index 2024.
 

etisalat by e& - No. 1 and Strongest Telecom Brand in the World 2024
 

In addition, Brand Finance named etisalat by e&, the Group's telecom pillar, the Strongest Telecom Brand in the World 2024, with a BSI score of 89.4 out of 100, resulting in AAA rating. etisalat by e& also preserved its leading position as the Strongest Brand in MEA for the fourth year across all categories. etisalat by e& is today among the top 20 strongest brands globally.

David Haigh, CEO, Brand Finance, said: "e& has been on a journey of reinvention, guided by Mr. Dowidar's expertise and experience. Transforming an organisation with almost 50 years of heritage is no easy task, but he has shown not only a keen understanding of the business itself, but also how important a brand can be in facilitating a change. By evolving the historic etisalat brand into a tech organisation with global aspirations, Mr Dowidar is setting the group up for another 50 years of success."

Brand Finance is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Bridging the gap between marketing and finance for more than 25 years, it evaluates the strength of brands and quantifies their financial value to help organisations of all kinds make strategic decisions. Every year, Brand Finance conducts more than 5,000 brand valuations, supported by original market research, and publishes over 100 reports that rank brands across all sectors and countries.

etisalat by e& today announced its partnership with Advanced Real Estate Services (ADRES) to enhance its products including DARI, Abu Dhabi's comprehensive digital real estate ecosystem, backed by the Department of Muncipalities and Transport (DMT). DARI’s vision aims  to revolutionise the digital landscape of Abu Dhabi's real estate sector, aligning with the UAE’s vision to foster growth, competition and continued long-term success.

As part of the MoU, etisalat by e& is enabling ADRES’s digital framework, focusing on lead onboarding, improved communication, and expanding its reach through etisalat's digital platforms.

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President of Small & Medium Business at etisalat by e&, and Moath Maqbol, General Manager of ADRES, attended the signing ceremony, demonstrating their commitment to advancing digital innovations in Abu Dhabi and furthering progress in the emirate.

“Our partnership with ADRES extends beyond delivering world-class digital services; it also involves enabling the growth of business communities. We are committed to providing the real estate communitywith advanced digital solutions that foster competition, expansion, and success,” Mahmoud said.

Moath Maqbol, General Manager of Advanced Real Estate Services (ADRES), said: “Our partnership with etisalat by e& will play a leading role in enhancing ADRES’s offerings, and revolutionising Abu Dhabi's real estate sector by boosting service accessibility and convenience of real estate services. This, in turn, will ultimately foster growth, competition, and success for businesses and communities.”

DARI’s digital offerings are available through its website, www.dari.ae, and a user-friendly mobile application, enhancing the ease and convenience of real estate transactions in Abu Dhabi.

etisalat by e& and Cisco, two of the leading giants in the telecommunications and technology sectors, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advanced connectivity solutions and services for businesses in the UAE.

The MoU outlines the principles by which the companies intend to collaborate on go-to-market activities, serving enterprises and SMB business customers by enhancing engagement, co-developing innovative products, and strengthening managed services capabilities.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO,  etisalat by e& UAE said, "This MoU marks an important step in our vision to create a more connected and sustainable UAE. The agreement is driven by a mutual desire to develop new value propositions and enhance existing solutions. Through our collaboration with Cisco, we endeavor to deliver pioneering connectivity and managed services solutions that enable our clients' digital transformation journeys, and contribute to the success of their business objectives." 

Reem Asaad, Vice President Middle East and Africa at Cisco said, "Our collaboration with etisalat by e& underscores Cisco's dedication to delivering innovative solutions to businesses in the UAE. Together with etisalat by e&, we aim to enable digital transformation while helping our customers achieve their sustainability objectives. By combining our expertise, we will provide the advanced foundation for businesses to accelerate their journey towards a digitally advanced operations in UAE."

This strategic alliance leverages the strengths of both organizations, combining etisalat by e&’s extensive reach and robust infrastructure with Cisco's innovative technology solutions. The collaboration is set to deliver more efficient and effective advanced connectivity solutions, which shall ultimately enhance customer experience while enabling their growth and transformation.

In addition, the collaboration will see the companies working together to develop a broad range of consultancy services for various commercial segments, such as business continuity, disaster recovery,  tech-refresh framework, and sustainable tech-enabled solutions. 

Mahmood added: "We firmly believe that advanced connectivity is vital for enduring business success. With such partnerships, we're poised to help our customers reach their business objectives as well as remain committed to sustainability and digital transformation. This will pave the way for operational efficiency, and growth of various companies, along with a positive impact on the UAE economy and society." 

etisalat by e& today launched a white paper on the rapidly progressing development of 5G networks, representing the next frontier in wireless communication technology in the UAE.

The white paper highlights etisalat by e&’s role in the country's transition to 5G-Advanced and its commitment to global standards. It outlines the company's milestones, such as the launch of 5G NSA in 2019 and the subsequent announcement of 5G SA readiness in 2021, demonstrating its proactive approach in adopting advanced technologies.

etisalat by e& is committed to advancing connectivity, with achievements such as Voice over New Radio (VONR) and network slicing. The company has expanded into 5G SA for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and smartphones, aiming to provide high-quality, reliable, and fast connectivity to consumers and businesses.

Khalid Murshed, Chief Technology and Information Officer at etisalat by e&, said: “We are proud to launch our white paper which outlines our commitment to technological excellence and leadership in the advancement of 5G technology in the UAE. It reflects our proactive approach to adopting advanced technologies and our dedication to pioneering innovation.”

etisalat by e&'s recent demonstration of the fastest 5G SA speed of 13.2 Gbps during GITEX 2023 contributes to positioning the UAE as a global leader in mobile speed. The white paper also addresses etisalat by e&'s strategic initiatives for sustainability, particularly in energy efficiency to accommodate the anticipated 10x traffic growth.

The 18-page document also sheds light on etisalat by e&'s offerings for both consumers and businesses, demonstrating the company's dedication to evolving with global technology standards and preparing for the next phase of connectivity through 5G-Advanced deployment aligned with Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards. 3GPP is a global collaboration that develops standards for mobile telecommunications, including 5G technology.

The white paper is available for download here.