Ericsson and leading UAE telecom operator du have successfully completed a proof of concept (PoC) deploying 5G Standalone (SA) using millimeter wave (mmWave) extended range technology in residential neighbourhoods across the United Arab Emirates.
The trial utilised Ericsson’s latest mmWave radio, the AIR 5343, combined with advanced software features to deliver multi-gigabit speeds, significantly extended coverage, increased capacity for high-demand applications, and accelerated the rollout of high-performance Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services.
The initiative aims to bring ultra-fast broadband to more households across the UAE, enhancing user experience and expanding du’s FWA footprint in residential areas.
This project marks the first implementation of mmWave extended range technology in the UAE, representing a major milestone in the country’s 5G evolution and reinforcing its position as a global leader in advanced connectivity.
Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, said: “du continues to bring the latest and most innovative connectivity solutions to our customers. Leveraging mmWave extended range with Ericsson, we are enhancing our Fixed Wireless Access services and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a 5G leader. This proof of concept helps us explore how advanced 5G technologies can improve service delivery, create new customer offerings, and strengthen our role in shaping the UAE’s digital infrastructure.”
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The successful PoC builds on the long-standing strategic partnership between Ericsson and du, with Ericsson serving as a key technology partner in du’s Radio Access Network (RAN) infrastructure. The trial employed a macro deployment architecture to demonstrate the viability of mmWave technology for residential broadband applications in the UAE market.
Petra Schirren, President of Ericsson Gulf, commented: “This PoC with du represents a significant advancement for 5G Standalone deployment in the UAE. Together, we are demonstrating how mmWave extended range technology can transform Fixed Wireless Access while showcasing the benefits of enhanced spectrum utilisation for both operators and end users.
This reflects our ongoing commitment to exploring practical deployments that address real market demand.”
