Nokia announced that it is deploying Software Definition Access Network (SDAN) for the du of Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC) to achieve zero touch network operation. This three-year project, based on the long-term cooperation between the two companies, has brought world-class technology to the United Arab Emirates.

As one of the first operators to deploy zero contact networks in the Middle East, du is accelerating innovation and deploying new and innovative services on du’s existing optical broadband network. By using Nokia’s innovative Altiplano cloud platform, it provides du with the network intelligence, automation and control required by the company for the development of virtualized network environment, to support emerging new use cases, such as 5G backhaul, augmented reality, virtual reality, cloud games and enterprise network slicing.

Saleem AlBlooshi, chief technology officer of du, said: “As we move towards a faster and more virtualized environment, adding SDANs to our infrastructure is a necessary step to keep up with business needs. A key component of du’s network strategy is to join SDANs to ensure that the company will be able to drive future value by integrating intelligent applications, artificial intelligence and higher levels of automation. This will ensure that the user experience is as seamless as possible. Through these developments. We will be able to provide an enhanced customer experience and accelerate the company’s ability to meet growing demand by leveraging fully automated operations and zero touch services.”

Rima Manna, Vice President of Middle East Business of Nokia MEA, said: “We are happy to successfully expand our long-term partnership with du on SDAN technology. Nokia’s end-to-end SDAN solution is changing the way service providers operate networks. Through a single cloud optimization platform, we provide du with a tool to effectively unlock new business opportunities and use cases.”