UAE telecom operator du said it has signed a strategic agreement with the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (Fewa) to support its extensive dark fibre network and help extend the reach of its fixed services to Northern Emirates.

The partnership is in continuation of the signing of a MoU between the two companies earlier, said a statement from du.

The deal allows du and Fewa to optimally utilise their respective network resources to enhance the scope of their services and operations efficiency for the benefit of all UAE residents, the statement added.

The agreement supports du’s plans and is a stepping stone in extending the reach of its fixed services to Northern Emirates which will allow individuals and businesses to enjoy du home and business fixed services.

Commenting on the agreement, Osman Sultan, CEO, du, said: 'We believe that increased co-operation between the private and public sectors based on mutual synergies is the way forward.'

'We are proud of this agreement, which is part of our continuous efforts to strengthen our fixed and mobile network capabilities, and is a significant part of our preparations to extend our fixed services footprint nationwide this year,' he added.

Mohammed Mohammed Saleh, general manager, Fewa, said: “Infrastructure is a national asset and we wanted to capitalise on our dark fibre network for the benefit the UAE telecom sector, we are proud of this partnership with du and wish them all the best in expanding their national fixed footprint.”

An integrated telecom service provider in the UAE, du is 39.5 per cent owned by the UAE government, 19.75 per cent by Mubadala, 19.5 per cent by Emirates Communications & Technology Company and the remaining stake by public shareholders.-TradeArabia News Service