The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has seen the launch of its first millimetre wave (mmWave) 5G base station. Local telco Du has switched on the site at an arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, utilising 26GHz spectrum which has been freed by the local regulator for 5G use. Du says the current system enables download speeds of up to 2.1Gbps and it is looking to increase this to 4Gbps by using additional frequencies.
Saleem AlBlooshi, Chief Technology Officer for Du, said: ‘The mmWave frequencies will greatly improve network capacity and allow Du to deliver enhanced services to an unprecedented number of mobile users. Furthermore, they will provide cost-effective 5G coverage in high-traffic areas. 5G device sales that support the mmWave are continually rising and we anticipate higher market availability and wider adoption in the near future.’