Nokia and du launch first LTE network in UAE

Nokia Networks recently partnered with the Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company, better known under the brandname ‘du,’ to bring the first LTE wireless services network to the United Arab Emirates.

It’s a big move for du, as LTE wireless technology sets the international standard for wireless performance and data speed for today’s markets.

The technology works by increasing wireless capacity and speed by aggregating the power of different radio interfaces. Nokia and du have combined the 1800 MHz and 800 MHz FDD-LTE bands, which will use the two frequencies more efficiently.

That means du customers will benefit from better wireless coverage with data speeds up to 225 Mbps.

“This milestone underscores our global standing as a frontrunner in introducing latest mobile broadband technologies in the UAE,” Saleem AlBlooshi, du’s vice president in charge of network development, said. “We timed it with the availability of CAT-6 smartphones in the UAE, so that our customers can immediately enjoy higher download speeds with increased throughput and coverage.

Nokia has been rolling out similar new LTE networks in partnership with other carriers from around the Middle East. Tony Awad led the company’s efforts working with du and said the move fits nicely with Nokia’s vision for broadening global network access.

“This feat is a great example of how we help ambitious telecom service providers such as du address the ever-increasing demand for faster data speeds by taking advantage of existing spectrum,” Awad said. “Our carrier aggregation solution helps du’s customers access wireless next generation data services across the UAE.”