Synopsis

In 2017 the broadband market in the UAE is one of the most advanced both regionally and globally. Prior to the fixed network sharing agreement introduced in late 2015; both incumbent Etisalat and alternative provider du operated FttH networks in separate areas – du in the Dubai free trade zones and Etisalat in the rest of the country. Besides FttH/FttP, other internet technologies available in the UAE include ADSL, leased lines, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks.

The UAE government at both federal and emirate level has been proactive in the digital economy and digital media sectors, with programs to encourage computer and internet use. Like other countries in the Middle East, the UAE aims to transition into a ‘knowledge based and highly productive economy’ by 2021.

This BuddeComm report provides valuable insights on the UAE broadband market and includes key trends and statistics.

Key developments:

Etisalat has the largest market share of fibre broadband subscribers; Both Etisalat and Du continue to invest in and improve their broadband networks; Etisalat and Du reached a fixed network sharing agreement in late 2015 which will see them share the country’s fibre network.

Companies covered in this report:

Etisalat; du; Yahsat; Netflix; Icflix; Starz play.