EITC opens link to global telecoms service

The UAE’s second telecoms operator, Emirates Integrated Telecommunication Company PJSC (EITC), which offers services under the banner du, has opened its link to a global telecoms and internet system. The move will give its customers the capability to make international calls and connect to broadband internet services without the need to use Etisalat infrastructure. The link will be provided by FLAG Telecom’s FALCON submarine cable system which stretches from Suez to Mumbai and links to the global FLAG submarine cable. EITC was awarded a full telecoms licence in the UAE in February, enabling it to operate and manage a fixed line and mobile network in competition with Etisalat. The licence cost AED124.5 million (USD33.9 million) and the award will pave the way for the full liberalisation of the market by 2015.