Nokia, e& and MediaTek achieve multi-gigabit speeds with six-component carrier aggregation - Middle East Business News and Information
First use of 400 MHz mid-band spectrum in the region on e&'s commercial network
Enables e& UAE to maximize existing spectrum assets and strengthen its position as the world's fastest mobile network
Powered by Nokia's Massive MIMO radios and baseband solutions, validated end-to-end with MediaTek's flagship 5G device
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Nokia, in collaboration with e& UAE, the flagship telecommunications arm of e& in the UAE, and MediaTek, today announced the Middle East's first successful demonstration of six-component carrier (6CC) aggregation in 5G Standalone (SA). The trial combined 400 MHz of e& UAE's 5G mid-band spectrum, unlocking multi-gigabit peak throughput rates that would allow subscribers to download UHD movies in seconds. For e& UAE, the milestone further solidifies its position as the world's fastest mobile network while future-proofing radio access network investments.
The trial utilized e& UAE's commercial spectrum across 3.5 GHz, 2.6 GHz, 2.1 GHz and 1.8 GHz bands and delivered a throughput of 5.8 Gbps. Nokia supplied its latest high-capacity equipment from the AirScale portfolio, including Habrok 64 Massive MIMO radios, dual-band radios, baseband solutions and carrier aggregation software. MediaTek provided a prototype smartphone powered by its flagship 5G chipset, which supports 6CC carrier aggregation.
Mark Atkinson, Senior Vice President and Head of Radio Access Networks at Nokia, said: 'Together with our long-standing partners, e& and MediaTek, Nokia is once again pushing the limits of technology by aggregating six mid-band component carriers. Our industry-leading carrier aggregation solutions help maximize 5G performance with existing spectrum assets, paving the path to Advanced 5G. Multi-gigabit speeds are a true game-changer for end-user experience in the UAE's competitive market for both consumers and enterprises.'
Abdulrahman Al Humaidan – Vice President Access Network at e& UAE, said:
'Aggregating six mid-band carriers lets us squeeze every bit of performance out of the spectrum that we have available for 5G. This breakthrough shows that 5G Advanced isn't a distant vision, but a concrete enabler for multi-gigabit speeds across the UAE without waiting for new frequencies. Working with Nokia and MediaTek, we now have a clear blueprint for scaling this capability nationwide.'
He added: '5G is redefining what's possible — from ultra-fast downloads to real-time connectivity that powers everything from mobile streaming to smart cities. At e&, we're pushing the boundaries of 5G performance to ensure people across the country experience the full potential of next-generation speed and reliability. This isn't just about faster connections — it's about enabling the UAE's digital future.'
Nokia and e& UAE are paving the way for future enhancements to 5G networks by providing the critical technology foundation that supports the growing demand for data and digital services in the region.
HC Hwang, General Manager of Wireless Communication System and Partnership at MediaTek said: 'Successfully completing the 6CC carrier aggregation trial in partnership with e& and Nokia marks a significant leap forward in 5G technology advancement. This achievement, conducted on our new M90 modem platform, underscores MediaTek's commitment to pushing download speeds, enhancing network performance, and delivering unparalleled connectivity.'
About Nokia:
At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.
As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.
With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.
About e&:
e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. With the group's financial performance in 2023 showing a consolidated net revenue of AED 53.8 billion and a net profit of AED 10.3 billion, e& continues to maintain its position as a financial powerhouse, reflected by its strong credit rating and solid balance sheet.
Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group. Its footprint now spans 38 countries, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services ranging from advanced connectivity, entertainment, streaming and financial services to AI-powered solutions, cloud computing, ICT, cybersecurity and IoT platforms.
The Group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise and e& capital, each catering to distinct customer and market needs. These pillars empower e& to lead in various sectors, from telecom and digital lifestyle to enterprise services and venture investments. The ongoing strategic investments in AI, IoT, 5G and cloud services reinforce its leadership in the global technology landscape, driving the future of smart connectivity and innovation.
Driven by innovation, sustainability and a commitment to digital empowerment, e& is set on creating a smarter, more connected future for individuals, businesses and communities.
About e& UAE:
e& UAE embodies the telecom arm of e& in the UAE, with a mission to maximise stakeholder value, deliver an unparalleled customer experience and optimise business performance for sustainable growth and success.
Leveraging the latest world-class technologies, e& UAE will grow core and digital services, enriching consumer value propositions with digital services catering to new consumer lifestyles and emerging demands beyond core telecom services, including health, insurance and gaming.
e& UAE will continue to act as a trusted partner to enterprises in meeting their connectivity needs and beyond.
Bolstering its leadership position as a digital telco that champions customers in a hyper-connected digital world, e& UAE will pivot the new sustainable demand into future spaces such as private networks, autonomous vehicles, and AI.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mid East Info
11 hours ago
- Mid East Info
e& puts online safety first with new parental control service for families
In an important step towards improving online safety for children across the UAE, e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of e&, has launched a new online safety solution called 'Parental Control.' This comprehensive service delivers a complete parental control solution, empowering parents to filter content, regulate internet access, and set usage limits to foster a secure and controlled online environment for their children. Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE, said: 'In today's digital age, children are more connected than ever, often without the guidance or safeguards needed to navigate the online world safely. They encounter a vast digital landscape filled with opportunities but also unseen risks. In an era where digital safety is paramount, our Parental Control service empowers parents with cutting-edge tools to create a secure and balanced online experience for their children.' A 2024 study by the UAE Cyber Security Council and Kaspersky Labs reveals that 97 per cent of children in the UAE regularly use various gadgets, with tablets being the most popular at 68 per cent, followed by smartphones at 57 per cent. The study also highlights children's most common online activities, with 64 per cent spending their time watching videos, pictures, and photos. Additionally, 52 per cent engage in playing video games, while 42 per cent use the internet for educational purposes, such as preparing for classes or studying. Furthermore, 48 per cent of children aged 11-14 have been contacted by a stranger online. These findings underline the widespread and diverse online habits of children, further emphasising the need for enhanced digital safety measures. With Parental Control's features, including device monitoring, parents can seamlessly block unwanted applications with a single click, creating a safer digital environment for their children. Content filtering adds another layer of protection by restricting access to inappropriate websites, ensuring a more secure and responsible browsing experience. The service also protects against emerging cybersecurity threats by blocking access to malicious websites and unsafe downloads—helping shield children from phishing attempts, scams, and other online risks. Additionally, the screen time feature empowers parents to set customised time limits on internet usage, encouraging healthier digital habits. Designed for ease and efficiency, these features give parents greater control over their children's online activity, helping them navigate the digital world with confidence and peace of mind. e& UAE offers several Parental Control packages for its postpaid, prepaid, and eLife customers, available through the e& UAE app and website at AED 30 per month, with a first-month free trial. The 'Parental Control Mobile' option allows parents to monitor and manage devices wherever their children are—whether connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi—ensuring protection on the go. It provides coverage for up to 10 devices. The 'Parental Control Home' option, on the other hand, provides unlimited protection for all devices connected to the household Wi-Fi network—delivering always-on security inside the home. Additionally, these services are available for free with the purchase of select Samsung devices or a Kids SIM Card, making it easier for parents to safeguard their children's online activities. The Parental Control service is designed for seamless compatibility across devices, ensuring a hassle-free experience for families. It fully supports both iOS and Android devices, allowing parents to manage their children's online activity regardless of their preferred platform. Additionally, no SIM card is required for a child's phone or tablet, as the service operates smoothly over both Wi-Fi and mobile networks, providing continuous protection and flexibility across different connectivity options. About e&: e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. With the group's financial performance in 2023 showing a consolidated net revenue of AED 53.8 billion and a net profit of AED 10.3 billion, e& continues to maintain its position as a financial powerhouse, reflected by its strong credit rating and solid balance sheet. Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group. Its footprint now spans 38 countries, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services ranging from advanced connectivity, entertainment, streaming and financial services to AI-powered solutions, cloud computing, ICT, cybersecurity and IoT platforms. The Group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise and e& capital, each catering to distinct customer and market needs. These pillars empower e& to lead in various sectors, from telecom and digital lifestyle to enterprise services and venture investments. The ongoing strategic investments in AI, IoT, 5G and cloud services reinforce its leadership in the global technology landscape, driving the future of smart connectivity and innovation. Driven by innovation, sustainability and a commitment to digital empowerment, e& is set on creating a smarter, more connected future for individuals, businesses and communities. About e& UAE: e& UAE is the flagship telecom arm of e& in the UAE, built on a 5-decades legacy of connectivity excellence. Our mission is to deliver world-class superior connectivity experiences that fuel the UAE's future-focused innovation. Leveraging the latest world-class technologies, e& UAE aims to transform lives and industries, turning every connection into an opportunity for growth and every interaction into a transformative possibility. We are focused on expanding our core services and digital marketplaces by enriching consumer value propositions that cater to new lifestyles and emerging demands beyond core telecom services, including health, insurance and gaming. As a trusted enterprise partner, e& UAE continues to power entire industries with 5G and AI, delivering a tailored ecosystem of solutions to meet their connectivity needs and more, empowering them to automate, innovate, transform, and scale. Strengthening our leadership position as an AI-powered telco, e& UAE delivers seamless connectivity, cutting-edge AI solutions, and sustainable innovation to uplift people and communities, and empower businesses and industries, so everyone thrives in a digital-first world.
Mid East Info
15 hours ago
- Mid East Info
Huawei Showcases 5G-A Development and Value of Scenario-based AI - Middle East Business News and Information
During MWC Shanghai 2025, Huawei showcased new developments in 5G Advanced (5G-A) experience monetization and scenario-based services powered by AI agents. The company's exhibition at this year's event was titled 'Accelerating the Intelligent World' as it intended to meet with global carriers, industry partners, and opinion leaders to discuss new paths for carrier development that focus on creating value using AI. Huawei's showcase focused on their latest innovations in three areas: Services: Huawei announced the success of a number of 5G-A experience monetization and scenario-based AI application (AI-to-X) projects it has carried out in collaboration with China's three major carriers. Infrastructure: Huawei hosted presentations by their carrier partners on their recent experience in building AI-centric networks, and discussed how to create AI computing hubs that can enable business success with AI. The company also launched a new comprehensive AI Ultra-Broadband (AI UBB) solution that covers all network layers from home broadband to transport networks. The solution will come with end-to-end built-in computing power and comprehensive performance enhancements aimed at accelerating network evolution towards higher-level autonomy, which will, in turn, improve AI application experience and enable business growth. Operations: Huawei and China's three major carriers jointly shared their latest best practices and achievements in intelligent wireless network operations and intelligent home broadband operations, as well as AI computing services for training and inference. These practices help carriers build, maintain, and utilize computing power. Commercial 5G-A adoption is expected to accelerate in a number of regions in 2025, including the Middle East, China, and Asia-Pacific. Carriers in these regions are actively exploring experience monetization models. Eric Xu, Huawei's Deputy Chairman and Rotating Chairman, gave a keynote on pathways for driving growth in the telecoms industry. Xu began his speech by sharing observations about the current status of the telecoms industry: 'After nearly four decades of rapid growth, the industry has entered a period of steady development, while facing some challenges to new growth.' He proceeded to expand on four potential pathways to growth: Ramping up for changes in user needs and meeting new demands with high growth potential Boosting HD video supply and consumption through coordinated efforts across the ecosystem Bringing 5G to every car for new growth in intelligent connected vehicles Bringing FTTR to micro and small businesses to make the most of opportunities in AI 'Of course, every carrier is different,' concluded Xu. 'Their markets are different, their business environment is different – and so is their competitive landscape. So the pathways to growth are different too. We're ready and willing to work together, helping carriers explore opportunities unique to them and carve out the right pathways to long-term, sustainable growth.' China has emerged as a global pioneer in 5G-A, with 5G-A already available in over 300 of its cities. Carriers now offer 5G-A mobile plans in more than 30 Chinese provinces and the country currently has over 10 million 5G-A users. Carriers in China, the Middle East, and other regions are also exploring the new value framework for experience monetization by introducing premium upgrade initiatives. 5G-A offers users ultra-fast networks and fuels intelligent transformation in multiple sectors, including smart living, transportation, and manufacturing. The communications industry is facing significant disruption thanks to AI-driven innovation. The success of new experience monetization models also indicates the industry will soon enter a new era of growth. These changes are expected to reshape the way people interact with each other, with organizations, and with society. Carriers are uniquely positioned to embrace this surge in AI and explore new AI applications because of their inherent strengths in cloud, network, intelligence, and computing. They are using AI to transform their services, infrastructure, and operations, which is unlocking new drivers for business growth. Many carriers are rebranding themselves as providers of personalized, integrated, and high-quality AI agents that are accessible to consumers anytime and anywhere. Within the smart home market, they are upgrading existing services by enabling coordination between various smart devices to enhance smart home companionship. Carriers are also moving into the in-vehicle services market by integrating AI agents with vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technologies to create smart, mobile third spaces that deliver new experiences for monetization. For businesses, they are upgrading their capabilities by enhancing computing-network services and model-based services that will deeply empower production and operations. MWC Shanghai 2025 took place from June 18 to June 20 in Shanghai, China. During the event, Huawei showcased its latest products and solutions in Hall N1 of the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC). The commercial adoption of 5G-Advanced is accelerating in 2025. Huawei collaborates with global carriers, industry experts, and opinion leaders to explore how innovations in AI can be used to reshape telecom services, infrastructure, and operations to generate new revenue sources and accelerate the transition towards an intelligent world. About Huawei: Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. We have more than 208,000 employees, and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions, serving more than three billion people around the world. Our Vision and mission is to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. To this end, we will drive ubiquitous connectivity and promote equal access to networks; bring cloud and artificial intelligence to all four corners of the earth to provide superior computing power where you need it, when you need it; build digital platforms to help all industries and organizations become more agile, efficient, and dynamic; redefine user experience with AI, making it more personalized for people in all aspects of their life, whether they're at home, in the office, or on the go.
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Mid East Info
NBO Named Best Retail Bank in Oman 2025 by MEED's MENA Banking Excellence Awards - Middle East Business News and Information
23 June 2023, Muscat: The National Bank of Oman (NBO) has been named as the Best Retail Bank in Oman 2025 at the MEED's Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Banking Excellence Awards. The prestigious recognition celebrates the bank's continuous strive to invest in innovative financial services and solutions that deliver a seamless and enhanced customer experience. Focused on convenience and trust, NBO offers a comprehensive range of retail products and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers – from children and youth to high-net-worth individuals. These include Private Banking, Sadara Priority Banking, Privilege Banking, alongside Current, Savings and Deposit Accounts. In addition, the bank also provides exclusive lending solutions and a broad selection of Credit, Debit, and Badeel Prepaid Cards. To enhance customer experience, NBO's award-winning app empowers customers to manage their accounts, payments and transactions digitally. It features account opening services, loan top-ups, as well as bill payments. Through the app, customers can also apply for a credit card digitally through Oman's first fully digital credit card application facility. With the integration of Electronic Know Your Customer (E-KYC) technology, customers can update personal details while enjoying a fully digital onboarding journey, eliminating the need for physical paperwork or in-person verification. For added convenience, customers can also link their NBO debit and credit cards to Apple Pay, Samsung Wallet, and Garmin Pay, enabling seamless payments across a wide range of mobile devices. To enhance customer satisfaction, NBO's Rewards Program allows customers to earn, redeem and convert points on everyday spending using their NBO cards for a variety of options. NBO's focus on customer ease extends beyond digital channels to its physical presence across the Sultanate. The bank has introduced several innovations in Oman, including the Eid note dispensing machines, the self-service kiosks and the exclusive ATM and CDM machines that support a wide range of essential banking transactions. Supported by a dedicated team of relationship managers and a robust digital infrastructure, NBO continues to redefine the retail banking experience in Oman. Deeply aligned with Oman's national vision for a smarter, more digitally empowered future, NBO remains committed to setting new benchmarks in customer experience, financial innovation, and service excellence.
