UAE 5G communication base station inverter grid connection construction

How many 5G stations are there in the UAE?

5G is well-deployed in major urban areas and along main transport routes, but less so in more rural areas. The UAE is estimated to have approximately 7,000 5G base stations, representing seven stations per 10,000 residents. The two principal network operators (Etisalat by e& and Du) as well as the main VMNO Virgin Mobile offer 5G connectivity.

What is the UAE Strategy for 5G & beyond?

This is in line with the UAE Strategy for 5G and Beyond (2020-2025), which includes enabling and achieving long-term social and economic benefits in various areas such as manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and education. 6 The TDRA published a White Paper on 5G roles in Industry Digitalisation in the UAE in October 2022 (White Paper).

Is du deploying 5g-a Technology in the UAE?

Du launched its 5G SA technology in 2023 and has made significant strides in deploying 5G-Advanced (5G-A) technology in the UAE. Du is reported to have already installed hundreds of 5G-A base stations after carrying out 5G-A trials in October 2023, which paved the way for initial commercial launch of the technology in January 2024.

Which network operators offer 5G connectivity?

The two principal network operators (Etisalat by e& and Du) as well as the main VMNO Virgin Mobile offer 5G connectivity. The 5G penetration rate was assessed as being 19.4% as at June 2022 (TDRA 5G White Paper – see question 3 below).

How much 5G coverage does UAE 4 have compared to Etisalat?

Du reports 98.5% 5G population coverage across the UAE 4 while Etisalat is reported to be at a similar level. It is not clear how much of this coverage is attributable to SA 5G networks.

How many 5G campus networks should be created by 2024/2025?

It suggests the creation of up to 500 5G campus networks by 2024/2025, and that telecoms operators should work with key industry verticals to develop these campus networks and improve their capabilities. Assurance standards for 5G industrial converged applications should be considered and an appraisal mechanism should be in place.