UAE-based telecoms operator Du has announced the implementation of the next stage of its partner agreement with Vodafone, signed in January 2009. According to Du, new joint initiatives are being explored by the two companies, including mobile broadband connectivity products, secure remote mobile access for small business users, converged e-mail solutions and exclusive access to new models of handsets. Through the agreement, Du enjoys exclusive access to Vodafone’s range of products, devices and services in the UAE. The pair are also working together in the areas of marketing and network development. At the same time, Du’s chief executive, Osman Sultan, stated the telco expects to spend AED2.5 billion (USD680 million) on its network infrastructure during 2009 and ruled out the possibility of expanding outside it domestic market for now, adding that the company is focusing on developing its services in the UAE.
The telco has also announced the signing of a three-year managed services agreement with Swedish telecoms equipment supplier Ericsson. Under the deal, the vendor will continue to develop the efficiency of Du’s nationwide GSM/W-CDMA network operations, in order to reduce operational expenses and enable the telco to focus on providing new services to its subscribers.