UAE network sharing plan delayed

Regulatory Authority (TRA) has delayed plans to introduce a service that would allow businesses and consumers to choose their network provider, Mena FN.com reports.

The TRA claims the countries' main telco providers, African telecoms giant Etisalat and Du, are not ready technically to start a network sharing service.

Both Du and Etisalat already offer fixed-line and broadband services in the UAE, but not in the same districts, ArabianBusiness.com explains.

Older areas are typically the preserve of former monopoly Etisalat, while Du, which began in 2007, is the sole provider in newer developments.

Network sharing is hoped to boost competition between the operators and break the incumbent monopoly, according to IDC Middle East, Turkey and Africa telecoms analyst Hasan Sandila.

The National says the network sharing scheme is likely to bring lower prices for UAE telecoms services, which are high compared with many other markets.

"It is possible that this increased competition could lead to price cuts by both operators, so it is disappointing for customers in the short term that this is going to be delayed," says Dino Wilkinson, communications specialist and partner at law firm Norton Rose Middle East.