The UAE is set to enter a new phase in its mobile telecommunications development, as the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) officially announced on November 29, 2024, that 600 MHz would be allocated to International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) systems. This decision follows the identification of the 600 MHz band for mobile communication systems at the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23).
The 600 MHz spectrum is a significant milestone for the UAE’s mobile communications sector, providing operators with additional spectrum and consolidating the country’s position as a leader in adopting mobile communications technology. This spectrum is particularly important for expanding 5G coverage, offering improved stability and user experience.
As part of the below 1 GHz spectrum range, the 600 MHz band features excellent propagation characteristics, making it ideal for extending wide-area 5G connectivity. Its broad coverage capabilities will help improve the stability of 5G networks, ensuring consistent connectivity in residential, commercial, and rural areas. The band will also address the growing need for low-band and medium-band spectrum as mobile communication systems evolve.
600 MHz Spectrum Benefits for 5G and Digital Economy
The allocation of 600 MHz will accelerate the development of 5G networks in the UAE, benefiting both service providers and consumers. Key advantages of using 600 MHz include:
- Broader 5G Reachability: Due to its strong penetration through obstacles, 600 MHz will help expand 5G coverage to underserved areas, such as rural regions, reducing the digital divide and ensuring connectivity in previously hard-to-reach locations.
- Faster 5G Standalone Evolution: The 600 MHz band will support the consistent evolution of 5G standalone (SA) services, promoting the development of the Internet of Things (IoT), Internet of Vehicles (IoV), and industrial IoT applications.
- Stronger Mobile AI Enablement: The wide coverage of 600 MHz will provide a robust foundation for mobile AI applications, ensuring that AI-driven technologies such as smartphones, wearables, intelligent driving systems, and robots are always connected.
The 600 MHz spectrum’s superior penetration and broad coverage will enhance indoor connectivity, reliably supporting millions of devices and enabling the deployment of advanced 5G services. It will play a crucial role in driving technological innovation and the development of smart cities, IoT, and other digital infrastructure across the UAE, improving user experience and the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
