Arabian Post Staff -Dubai
Telecommunications provider du has become the first operator in the United Arab Emirates to commercially launch 5G Voice over New Radio services. This development signifies a significant advancement in the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure, enhancing voice call quality and network performance for users.
The introduction of 5G VoNR allows for voice calls to be transmitted entirely over the 5G network, eliminating the need to revert to 4G during calls. This results in faster call setup times, high-definition voice quality, and improved battery efficiency for compatible devices. du’s extensive 5G Standalone Access network underpins this service, offering widespread coverage across the UAE.
In addition to launching VoNR, du has received full certification from leading handset manufacturers, ensuring compatibility of their devices with du’s 5G SA network. This certification guarantees that users with certified devices can seamlessly access the enhanced voice services without additional configurations.
Saleem AlBlooshi, Chief Technology Officer at du, emphasized the company’s dedication to advancing its network capabilities: “Our commitment to evolving and elevating our network to superior standards has resulted in the 5G SA network certification, guaranteeing that du customers experience ultra-modern connectivity and unparalleled digital experiences.” He highlighted that the VoNR service is set to reshape voice communications by providing seamless 5G connectivity during calls, faster call setups, high-definition voice quality, and enhanced battery life.
The deployment of 5G SA technology is a strategic move to meet the growing demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity among consumers and businesses. This infrastructure supports advanced applications such as augmented reality, immersive communications, and other data-intensive services that require low latency and high bandwidth.
Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer at du, stated: “The introduction of the 5G SA network and the enablement of VoNR over 5G network represent a giant leap forward in our mission to deliver exceptional service and innovative solutions to our customers.” He noted that this technology not only enhances user experience with superior speeds and call quality but also opens new possibilities for businesses and public services, propelling the UAE closer to its smart city goals.
The 5G SA network’s capabilities extend beyond consumer applications. Enterprises can leverage network slicing, a feature that allows the creation of virtual networks tailored to specific requirements. This enables businesses to deploy customized solutions with dedicated resources, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.
In the broader context, du’s collaboration with technology partners has been instrumental in this rollout. In October 2024, du entered into an agreement with Ericsson to expand its 5G network, aiming to enhance capacity and deliver next-generation services. This partnership focuses on utilizing Ericsson’s Radio Access Network portfolio to bolster du’s infrastructure.
In December 2024, du and Nokia announced the deployment of the first commercial 5G Cloud Radio Access Network solution in the Middle East and Africa. This initiative underscores du’s hybrid RAN strategy, which combines purpose-built and cloud-native infrastructures to offer greater flexibility and scalability in network management.
The commercial launch of 5G VoNR and the expansion of the 5G SA network align with the UAE’s vision to be at the forefront of technological innovation. These advancements are poised to support various sectors, including healthcare, education, and entertainment, by providing the necessary infrastructure for digital transformation.
As the first operator in the UAE to achieve these milestones, du sets a precedent in the region’s telecommunications landscape. The company’s proactive approach in adopting and deploying cutting-edge technologies reflects its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers and contributing to the nation’s digital economy.
