TataCom in Etisalat deal to enhance network platform

Tata Communications will enter into a a partnership with UAE's telecom giant Etisalat to build a multi-service regional network infrastructure accessed from Etisalat'sSmartHub facility in the UAE, says a report.

This new multi-service regional network infrastructure includes a core network node in the Smarthub that provides improved connectivity between Etisalat's Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), Ethernet and Internet Protocol (IP) services and the Tata Communications global network.

This would enable direct routing of traffic between the Middle East and Africa, Asia and Europe.

The new network mode will be supported by Tata Communications' global network, including its TGN-Gulf cable system, part of its wholly-owned fibre optic sub-sea cable ring around the world, the report said.

This will enable enhancement of in-region routing, along with direct connectivity to Kenya, South Africa, Pakistan, India and Europe.

It also provides a platform that strengthens regional connectivity and connections to other regional nodes, including Turkey and Egypt.

"Tata Communications has made significant investments to its global network over the past few years which underpin our ability to connect the world.

"The expanded collaboration with Etisalat is our most recent step in building on this foundation to meet the ever-growing demand for high bandwidth voice and data services, lower latencies and seamless scalability for carriers and enterprises.

"The Smarthub, with its strategic location and array of connectivity options, makes an ideal facility to provide access to these connectivity requirements, both into and out of the region," RadwanMoussalli, Managing Director and Regional Head, Middle East and North Africa, Tata Communications, said.

Ali Amiri, Executive Vice President, Etisalat Carrier and Wholesale, said that Etisalat's SmartHub is a global communication hub facilitating direct routing of traffic between the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe.

"Our goal is to enable economic growth in the UAE through the provision of the best interconnectivity to businesses based in the region. Tata Communications is a long-standing partner with a truly global network footprint and this deeper collaboration will enable increased regional connectivity options for our customers," he said.

The cable network boasts of a significant depth in key emerging markets including India, South Africa, and the Gulf region.