du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), has become the world’s first Field Test Qualified Operator (FTQO) of the Global Certification Forum (GCF) to deploy the 5G common core network. du is steadily creating growth and opportunities for the UAE by supporting enterprises through the leveraging of its 5G network and the enabling of advanced communication services for its customers.
The development is a key milestone as du aims to play a key role in the digital agenda of the UAE and ensure that 5G technology takes the country’s tech-driven transformation to the next level by providing “a network that gets you” as it continues to extend its 5G coverage throughout the UAE. Its deployment of 5G networks in 2022 progressed at the fastest rate since 2021, reaching 94% population coverage by the end of the year.
Saleem AlBlooshi, chief technology officer at du, notes, “du’s 5G network is a powerful component of our offering that brings unprecedented services closer to users and will unlock a new generation of use cases. Becoming the world’s first GCF Field Trial Qualified Operator to declare 5G readiness is a significant milestone in advancing towards nationwide 5G coverage and transforming the UAE’s network landscape. Having already achieved several milestones, we are excited to deliver innovative services to our users, spur future achievements in 5G technology and continue building a foundation for the 5G evolution and beyond.”
Furthermore, du has introduced 5G innovations that empower key entities in their respective digital transformation journeys and improve national infrastructure, including those that empower people, build better communities, and support the National Agenda and other strategic roadmaps such as the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025. It continues to be a pioneer in 5G and network solutions, transforming individuals’ lives and businesses by delivering the best network experiences across the UAE and exploring new use cases to empower a digital transformation that will benefit the various economic and social sectors within the UAE.
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In related developments, du will welcome delegates as its hosts the Global Certification Forum (GCF) meetings CAG#73 (Conformance Agreement Group) and FTAG#70 (Filed Trial Agreement Group), from February 7-9, 2023, at the Sheraton Hotel Mall of Emirates. The GCF is recognized globally as the industry standard for mobile device certification and maintains and operates a certification scheme for new mobile devices, including handsets, smartphones, tablets, dongles, MiFis and routers. GCF Certification gives operators confidence in the interworking of newly introduced mobile devices, particularly at a time when technology and market expansion are advancing rapidly.