UAE
Mobile networks and carriers in UAE use 2 GSM bands, 1 UMTS band, 4 LTE bands, and 1 5G NR band. Find out if your unlocked phone or mobile device will work in UAE. See the tables below for details.
Will your phone or mobile device work in UAE?
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Check device compatibilityThe United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a well-developed mobile network infrastructure, with significant advancements over the years. The first mobile network in the UAE was established by Etisalat, which was founded in 1976, five years after the country's unification. Etisalat was the sole provider of mobile services until 2006, when du was established to offer mobile services and internet connectivity to some free zone areas. Despite the presence of two operators, du and Etisalat, the services are not competitive due to geographical distribution of service areas, effectively operating as monopolies.
Etisalat has been a pioneer in delivering the latest technology to its consumers, including the establishment of the first mobile network in the MENA region. The company has continued to evolve, investing in emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, and machine learning to meet the changing demands of a tech-dependent consumer base. In 2019, Etisalat announced plans to make the Expo 2020 area in Dubai the most connected point on earth, further solidifying its commitment to advanced telecommunications.
The UAE's mobile network has also been influenced by the introduction of new technologies such as 5G. The country has shown readiness for 5G, with tech-savvy consumers eager for the latest innovations and advanced handsets. This readiness is evident in the rapid adoption of mobile broadband and smartphone subscriptions, which have driven the growth of the telecommunications industry in the UAE.
Carriers
| Name | # of frequency bands in use |
|---|---|
| du | 7 |
| Etisalat | 6 |
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Frequencies in use
GSM
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| 900 MHz (E-GSM) | GSM |
| 1800 MHz (DCS) | GSM |
UMTS
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B1 (2100 MHz) | UMTS |
LTE
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B1 (2100 MHz) | LTE |
| B3 (1800 MHz +) | LTE |
| B7 (2600 MHz) | LTE |
| B20 (800 MHz DD) | LTE |
5G NR
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| N78 (3500 MHz) | 5G NR |
