du becomes a GCF Field Test Qualified Operator to deploy 5G network

• du has successfully deployed 5G common core network as a Field Trial Qualified  Operator (FTQO) of the Global Certification Forum (GCF)
• As a pioneer in 5G and network solutions as well as delivering best-in-class network infrastructure, du has achieved 94% population 5G coverage by the end of 2022

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 5G common core network. du is committed to creating growth and opportunities for the UAE, support enterprises to fulfill their business needs by leveraging its 5G network and enable advanced communication services for customers.

By achieving this key milestone, 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. It is committed to providing “A network that gets you” in terms of customers’ network needs, whether it’s an enterprise or an individual. The telco continues to extend its 5G coverage throughout the UAE so customers can enjoy the experience and all the use cases it supports. 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 said: “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.”

Further, du 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 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.

In related developments, du will welcome delegates as host of Global Certification Forum (GCF) meetings CAG#73 (Conformance Agreement Group), and FTAG#70 (Filed Trial Agreement Group) from [07.02-09.02.2023] in the Sheraton Hotel Mall of Emirates, recognized globally as the industry standard for mobile device certification, GCF maintains and operates a certification scheme for new mobile devices such as handsets, smartphones, tablets, dongles, MiFis, and routers. GCF Certification give operators confidence in the interworking of newly introduced mobile devices - particularly at a time when technology and market expansion are advancing so rapidly.