UAE-based telco 'du,' from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), and Cisco revealed a cooperation to build a future-proof network that is made to sustain du's quick transformation into a digital company. The news was made to accompany Mobile World Congress 2018, being held 26 February to 1 March this year.

Demand for more data bandwidth is climbing greatly as consumers and companies welcome new digital applications, services and innovations. In order to fulfill this need, du is replacing its existing IP core network with a scalable and 5G-ready framework that will lower network complexity and allow it to come to be an extra nimble and adaptable market gamer.

du selected Cisco IP core network to improve, expand and finish a seamless migration to virtualised and indigenous cloud architecture. The network modernization will raise the ability of the core network to 24 terabytes each node, making du's network prepared for ultra-broadband services. This enables du to offer next-generation digital services pertaining to augmented truth (AR) and digital truth (AR), in addition to other new applications and services made possible by 5G.

Saleem Al Blooshi, EITC's Chief Infrastructure Officer, said: "du is currently sustaining the realisation of the UAE's Vision 2021 by encouraging the digital economy and driving Dubai's transformation right into a smart city. 5G is going to play a vital role because. 5G is a phased approach and we will certainly continue with trials up until we formally introduce it. With the release of a more scalable and active network, we will certainly be well-placed to support 5G, smart city services, the IoT and various other new, innovative digital services."

As both customer and industrial 5G use cases gain traction, need for mobile and ultra-fast broadband services remains to speed up in the UAE. The expanded ability of du's network will help stimulate local innovation, specifically around the application of Expert system (AI), smart city and IoT modern technologies, while sustaining the country's vision for a data-driven future.

Ali Amer, Cisco's Managing Director of Global Provider for Middle East and Africa, added: "By collaborating with Cisco, du's 5G-ready network will certainly supply a much more virtual and far more scalable infrastructure that forms the foundation for future remedies and new business opportunities."