(Credit - WAM)
UAE Telecoms Get 20-Year Licence Renewal
The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has renewed the public telecommunications licences of Emirates Telecommunications Group (e&) and Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du) for a further 20 years. The renewed licences will take effect from 9th August 2026 until 8th August 2046, replacing the licences originally issued in 2006. Local telecom operators are expected to benefit from the long-term regulatory framework, which supports continued investment in digital infrastructure and future technologies.
The renewal provides stability for the telecommunications sector, enabling the UAE to advance its AI-driven networks, digital infrastructure, and economy-wide transformation. The TDRA will continue monitoring compliance with licence conditions, protecting subscriber rights, and ensuring a fair and competitive telecommunications environment. The licences include enhanced obligations relating to network resilience, international connectivity, quality of service, and subscriber protection.
The UAE has ranked first globally in fibre-to-the-home penetration for the tenth consecutive year, reaching 99.7%. The sector has evolved from providing traditional telecommunications services to becoming a key enabler of digital transformation, smart cities, and government services. The TDRA’s decision is expected to foster investments in AI-driven networks, digital infrastructure, and national connectivity, supporting the UAE’s next phase of digital growth.
The renewal of the licences is based on the Federal Decree-Law on the Regulation of the Telecommunications Sector, as amended. The TDRA’s Board of Directors announced the renewal, which will provide the sector with the stability required to sustain investment in digital infrastructure and future technologies.
