Abu Dhabi [UAE]: The United Arab Emirates has once again proven its leadership in digital infrastructure, ranking first globally in fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) coverage with an impressive 99.5% reach, according to the 2024 report by the FTTH Council Europe.
The UAE has maintained this top position since 2016, outperforming other tech giants in the region:
- Republic of Korea – 96.6%
- China – 93.6%
- Hong Kong – 89.9% (ranked fifth)
This achievement highlights the UAE’s ongoing commitment to becoming a digital-first nation.
e& UAE Leads the Charge
The telecom powerhouse e& UAE plays a vital role in this success. With the highest fixed broadband penetration rate in the country, its fibre-optic network spans over 14.5 million kilometres, which is 360 times the Earth’s circumference. The network currently delivers high-speed internet to over 2.88 million homes across the UAE.
This milestone aligns with e& UAE’s “Fiber-First” strategy, which puts fibre-optic technology at the heart of its mission to provide seamless, premium connectivity experiences.
A Legacy of Innovation
Masood M Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, said that this isn’t just about numbers—it’s about decades of dedication.
“This achievement reflects our journey that began in 1986, when we introduced fibre-optic technology in our transport network. It’s been a foundation for the UAE’s advanced digital ecosystem.”
In 2011, Abu Dhabi became the first capital in the world fully covered by a fibre-optic network, reinforcing the nation’s pioneering spirit in telecom innovation.
With this continued global leadership, the UAE is solidifying its place as a worldwide benchmark in digital transformation and smart infrastructure, ensuring future-ready connectivity for its citizens and residents.
