Navigating a connected future: How du is going “beyond the core” as a digital enabler

As the world tends to look towards Silicon Valley for technological leaps, it's time to turn our eyes to the UAE, whose embrace of digital technology is setting the global pace in telecommunications. With 99% of its population online and 20.96 million mobile connections[1], the UAE isn’t just participating in the digital age, it's leading it. While these figures might seem like straight stats from an analyst's report, they reflect a deeper transition towards a society that values connectivity almost as much as the air it breathes.

Take, for example, du 's launch of its revamped B2B portfolio and introducing two new operating sub-brands joining du Business: du Tech and du Infra, is a significant leap towards a more nuanced approach to technology and infrastructure. Why does this matter? Because it highlights a shift from using digital tools to creating a whole ecosystem where these tools can thrive and drive value.

du Tech, with its focus on AI, IoT, datacentres, hybrid cloud, cyber security and blockchain, it promises to do more than just automate tasks. It’s about transforming how businesses and governments operate. Imagine government entities and companies in UAE using AI to streamline public transport systems, or retailers utilizing blockchain for better supply chain transparency. This is about harnessing technology to solve real-world issues, making life smoother and more efficient.

Then there’s du Infra. In today’s world, a minute of downtime or a data breach can have massive consequences. du Infra’s role goes beyond just providing connectivity, it ensures that this connectivity and data flow is reliable, seamless and secure. Whether it’s a small startup or a large corporation, du Infra aims to provide the digital backbone and network infrastructure that keeps the business resilient in a hyper-connected world.

Our commitment to innovation does not end here. du Pay has made financial transactions effortless and secure, diving right into the UAE's bustling $39.7 billion international money transfer scene. Licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE, du Pay is designed to cater to every financial need—be it global transfers, peer-to-peer payments, bill settlements, or mobile top-ups.

We've tailored du Pay to be as inclusive as possible, supporting multiple languages to fit the UAE's diverse community. All of this is powered by du's solid infrastructure, promising you a service that's not just convenient and cost-effective but also deeply customer-centric.

For du, moving beyond our core to become an integrated telecom and digital services provider isn’t just about upgrading technology – it's about rethinking how this technology can propel businesses and governments forward. The growth of the UAE’s telecom market, expected to reach USD 10.93 billion by 2029[2], is a reflection of a broader commitment to ensuring that the digital infrastructure of the country is robust, innovative, and inclusive.

Consider the broader impacts – enhanced market competitiveness, innovation, and automation – all stemming from a telecom strategy that’s about much more than just selling broadband plans or mobile connections. It’s about building a framework that supports digital evolution across every sector.

What du is aspiring to achieve is setting a benchmark in the telecom sector as a digital enabler. It's showing that when companies think beyond the profit margins and focus on holistic digital ecosystem development, the payoffs extend beyond business – it uplifts the entire society.

The ongoing developments in the UAE’s telecommunications sector hint at a future where connectivity isn't just widespread, but also smart, secure, and employed to improve everyday life. As this sector continues to evolve, it's not just setting up a model for others to follow but is also crafting a unique narrative of innovation that’s worth watching. Here’s to hoping this isn’t just a trend but a sustained strategy that can inspire major shifts in how connectivity and technology shape our daily lives.

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[1][1] Digital 2024: The United Arab Emirates — DataReportal – Global Digital Insights

[2] UAE Telecom Market Size, Competitors, Trends & Forecast ( researchandmarkets.com )