Ericsson has won a 5G deal from Etisalat to deploy a 5G radio network in the UAE to offer enhanced mobile broadband and fixed wireless access.
Ericsson’s solution will enable Etisalat to address industry 4.0 digitalization opportunities by exploring automation, AI and machine learning services for UAE industries, based on 5G capabilities, said Rafiah Ibrahim, head of Ericsson Middle East & Africa.
Etisalat Group’s Capex in 2018 was AED 8,379 million. Capex increased 5 percent resulting in a Capex – Revenue ratio of 16 percent in 2018.
Saeed Al Zarouni, senior vice president, Mobile Network, Etisalat, said: “5G will allow us to explore new use cases and business models as well as capture new revenue streams by addressing industry digitalization.”
Etisalat Group reported revenue of AED 52,388 million (+1 percent) mainly due to growth in domestic and international operations, mainly Morocco and Egypt.
Etisalat Group achieved revenue growth in the UAE at AED 209 million was mainly due to higher Internet and TV services, handsets and wholesale revenues.
Etisalat’s revenues from international operations increased 4 percent, resulting in 39 percent contribution to Group revenues.
Revenue of MT Group at AED 752 million was due to strong data growth in Moroccan operations.
Revenue of Egypt at AED 320 million was due to voice, mobile broadband and national roaming.
Revenue of Pakistan at AED 291 million negatively impacted by currency devaluation while grew in local currency.
Etisalat’s EBITDA was stable at AED 25,880 million as revenue growth is offset by higher cost of sales and operating expenses.
Capex
Etisalat’s capital spending in the UAE at AED 822 million was focused on maintenance, ICT/Digital capabilities and network modernization.
Capital expenditure in international operations decreased 10 percent and contributed 53 percent of total Group Capex.
Etisalat lowered Capex in MT Group to AED 576 million due to domestic operation.
Etisalat had a stable Capex in Egypt with focus on 4G deployment.
Etisalat said its higher Capex spend in Pakistan at AED 106 million was due to fixed network modernization.
Baburajan K
