Nokia to explore 5G network slicing in Dubai

Nokia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Nedaa, the security network provider of the Dubai Government. The MoU will explore opportunities to upgrade Nedaa’s telecommunications network across radio access networks (RAN) and core by leveraging 5G technology with Nokia’s innovative technologies. A 5G network with end-to-end slicing functionality will help Nedaa deliver improved public safety and smart city services to concerned organisations and citizens, as well as to lay the foundations for more advanced services such as the metaverse.

Nedaa’s network already utilises Nokia’s infrastructure and can support many of the requirements for mission-critical networks. However, with the introduction of 5G, Nedaa will be able to support enhanced services for public safety and management of vital operations — such as immersive applications for first responders, connected and automated vehicles, video surveillance and remote control — as well as manage thousands of connected devices, sensors and IoT applications.

The MoU sets a framework for upgrading the existing network capabilities and introducing agile and advanced services to government organisations based on secure and reliable networks. One of the key elements is 5G network slicing, which will help Nedaa provide segment-related solutions for different industries, including oil and gas, transport and other government organisations. The MoU also lays the foundation for identifying the most appropriate 5G use cases for capturing new opportunities and monetisation.

Nokia will also carry out a technology competence development program covering training and knowledge transfer to Nedaa employees. Nokia will expand its Integrated Operations Center (IOC) as the integration and enablement layer for all 5G use cases, including Industry 4.0, smart city and public safety applications, with a path to future services such as the metaverse and more.

“Nokia is a global technology leader and our longstanding and trusted partner,” said Nedaa CEO HE Mansoor Bu Osaiba. “We are now looking forward to leveraging Nokia’s proven 5G expertise to help us maximise the benefits of the technology upgradation and to provide innovative services to our users. Our efforts to upgrade our networks to next-generation network capabilities pave the way for futuristic services such as metaverse.”

“Security providers across the world are adopting 5G technology to improve their services,” added Kamal Ballout, Head of Enterprise, CHIMEA (China, India and MEA) at Nokia. “Network slicing is an exciting addition to the capabilities of 5G networks, enabling critical communication customers in different industry sectors to benefit from dedicated virtual network slices that enable secure, high-performance, private wireless connectivity. We are excited to continue our longstanding collaboration with Nedaa to help them leverage 5G technology for enhanced communication services and superior user experience.”

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