UAE to get second new mobile service

Following the launch earlier this week of the first MVNO service in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by Virgin Mobile, running on the network of Du, rival firm Etisalat has hit back by unveiling a new mobile service of its own. Local website WhatsOn reports that Etisalat has begun marketing a range of pre-paid plans under the brand Swyp, which is aimed at users in the 15-29 age bracket. The focus of the service is firmly on data, with a 5GB base plan costing AED50 (USD13.60) a month. With independent MVNOs not currently permitted under UAE legislation, the new Virgin Mobile operation is wholly owned by Du, and uses the Virgin brand under licence.