du to access FEWA’s Dark Fibre Network to support its network expansion

In continuation of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between du and the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA) in January 2010, a strategic agreement has been finalised that will give du immediate access to FEWA’s extensive Dark Fibre Network. The partnership allows du and FEWA to optimally utilise their respective network resources to enhance the scope of their services and operations efficiency for the benefit of all UAE residents.

The agreement supports du’s plans and is a stepping stone in extending the reach of its fixed services to Northern Emirates which will allow individuals and businesses to enjoy du home and business fixed services.

Commenting on the agreement, Osman Sultan, CEO, du, said: “We believe that increased cooperation between the private and public sectors based on mutual synergies is the way forward. We are proud of this agreement, which is part of our continuous efforts to strengthen our fixed and mobile network capabilities, and is a significant part of our preparations to extend our fixed services footprint nationwide this year.”

Mohammed Mohammed Saleh, General Manager, Federal Electricity & Water Authority (FEWA), said: “Infrastructure is a national asset and we wanted to capitalise on our Dark Fibre Network for the benefit the UAE telecom sector, we are proud of this partnership with du and wish them all the best in expanding their national fixed footprint”.

The initial MoU was signed between Mohammed Mohammed Saleh, General Manager, Federal Electricity & Water Authority (FEWA), and Osman Sultan, CEO of du, in January 2010.

About du

du, the integrated telecom service provider in the UAE, launched mobile telecommunication services in February 2007 across the UAE, in addition to internet and pay TV services that du provides in some of the free zones of Dubai. Call Select, du’s nationwide fixed line services for voice telephony, was launched in July 2007. By the end of 2008, over 3 million people in the UAE chose to become du customers.

Among du’s many firsts is its historic Number Booking Campaign for both individuals and business, Pay by the Second billing system, Mobile TV, Mobile Payments, first of its kind ‘WoW’ recharge card (which offers customers the choice between ‘more credit’, ‘more time’ and now the ‘more international’ recharge option with additional credit on international calls) and Self Care.

For business customers, du business offers include Closed Business User Group and preferred International Destinations. du Broadcast Services division brings scalable media technology platforms and telecommunication solutions to the broadcast community through its world-class teleport (Samacom) and Master Control Room (MCR) facilities.

du products and services for consumers and business are available through du’s retail network, currently numbering 34 du shops located in strategic locations across the UAE, including the recently opened flagship store located in the heart of Abu Dhabi. In addition, customers can access du products and services at more than 3000 authorised dealers or through the du e-shop, accessible at http://shop.du.ae du shops are a one-stop-shop for mobile service, carrier select and the payment of service bills.

du is 39.5 per cent owned by the UAE Federal Government, 19.75 per cent by Mubadala Development Company, 19.5 per cent by Emirates Communications & Technology Company LLC and the remaining stake by public shareholders. It is listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and trades under the name du.

Awards to date

• du selected as a UAE Superbrand at the Superbrands awards gala 2010.
• du presented with an award for Best Middle Eastern Local Currency Deal 2008 by UK’s EuroWeek
• du won two prestigious awards at UAE Web Awards 2008. du e-shop portal won the best strategic online portal award in the e-commerce category and du media club website won the bronze award in the media and press category.
• du corporate brand launch campaign awarded a Cristal MENA award in 2008.
• du declared ‘Best Brand’ at Telecoms World Awards Middle East 2007 for innovative branding and outstanding brand success.
• Second place in the New Brand Launch category at the GMR Effectiveness in Marketing Awards 2007.
• Silver Award for the best website in the ICT category at the UAE Web Awards 2007.
• du WoW TV Commercial awarded amongst the best 50 TV commercials in mobile telecom category in the world for 2007.

For further information, please contact:

Saugat Chatterjee
Public Relations Manager
Brand & Communications du
Mobile: +971 55 9367045
Email: saugat.chatterjee@du.ae

Reka Sepsy Manning, Selvage & Lee
Tel: +971 4 367 6154
Mobile: +971 55 220 68 20
Fax: +971 4 367 2615
Email: reka.sepsy@dubai.mslpr.com