Dubai — In a major step toward next-generation network evolution, Ericsson and e& UAE have entered into a multi-year agreement to modernize e& UAE’s 5G Core Network using cloud-native technologies, further strengthening the nation’s position as a leader in digital connectivity.
Announced during GITEX Global 2025, the collaboration will see Ericsson deploy its dual-mode 5G Core solution — including Unified Data Management (UDM), IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), User Data Consolidation (UDC), and Secure Entitlement Server (SES) — on e& UAE’s hybrid cloud, powered by Ericsson Cloud Native Infrastructure Solution and e&’s own cloud environment.
Driving the Next Phase of 5G Innovation
The modernization program is designed to deliver ultra-fast, low-latency, and secure connectivity, enabling new 5G-driven applications such as immersive gaming, real-time IoT, and mission-critical communications.
By integrating automation, continuous software updates, and real-time optimizations, the upgrade will strengthen network reliability and accelerate service deployment cycles, bringing advanced digital experiences to both consumers and enterprises.
“Upgrading our 5G core with Ericsson is about making everyday connectivity simpler, faster, and more dependable for everyone in the UAE,” said Khaled Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Core Networks and Platforms at e& UAE. “It lets us launch new services sooner, reduce delays, and improve call quality. It also enhances how we support businesses — from smart industry to public services — with secure and reliable connectivity.”
Cloud-Native Core for a Digital Nation
The new 5G core will enable end-to-end network orchestration, enhance multi-access edge computing (MEC) capabilities, and allow application developers to access 5G features such as network slicing and programmable APIs. This flexibility will drive new use cases across smart cities, healthcare, logistics, and energy — all in line with the UAE’s national vision for digital transformation and technology leadership.
“Our partnership with e& UAE reflects our shared commitment to supporting the UAE’s national vision for innovation,” said Petra Schirren, President of Ericsson Gulf, Ericsson Europe, Middle East, and Africa. “We’re enabling secure, high-performance connectivity that powers new industries and accelerates sustainable digital growth.”
A Longstanding Partnership Strengthened
Ericsson and e& UAE’s collaboration spans decades, with key milestones including the deployment of 4G and 5G networks, core expansion, and API exposure for application developers. This latest 5G core modernization builds upon their 2020 Unified Data Management (UDM) contract, reinforcing Ericsson’s position as a strategic partner in the operator’s digital evolution.
Toward a Smarter, Connected Future
The upgrade moves e& UAE closer to a fully cloud-native 5G architecture, setting the foundation for AI-enhanced network intelligence, scalable automation, and next-generation enterprise solutions. Together, Ericsson and e& UAE are shaping the backbone of the UAE’s intelligent digital economy — one built on reliability, speed, and innovation.
