UAE’s first telecom operator, Etisalat, is marking 50 years by returning to its founding brand name after four years as e&. The company said the move reflects its heritage and future ambitions in the AI era.
The company marked its anniversary with a heartfelt message reflecting on its five-decade journey alongside the UAE. It recalled milestones including laying its first telecom lines, launching the region’s first mobile network and expanding internet and fibre connectivity across the country.
It also credited its customers for giving meaning to that journey, highlighting how its networks have helped people stay connected with family, build businesses, study, work and share important moments, including during the pandemic and challenging times.
Founded in 1976, Etisalat has marked its 50th anniversary with customer promotions. The company launched the Middle East’s first mobile network in 1982, introduced GSM in 1994, brought internet services to the UAE in 1995, and rolled out 3G and MMS in 2003.
