In a groundbreaking move that reinforces the UAE’s position as a global leader in telecommunications and digital transformation, e& (formerly Etisalat) has become the first operator in the Middle East and Africa to deploy Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 technology. This latest innovation in optical networking is set to revolutionize the region’s connectivity infrastructure by offering higher capacity, greater efficiency, and improved scalability to support the ever-growing demand for digital services and data-intensive applications.
A Milestone in Telecommunications Innovation
The adoption of Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 (WL6) by e& UAE represents a significant milestone in the advancement of next-generation network technologies in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). As the digital economy continues to expand, there is an increasing need for robust, high-speed, and reliable connectivity solutions that can support emerging technologies such as 5G, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
By integrating WL6-powered coherent optical networking solutions, e& aims to enhance its existing infrastructure, ensuring that customers experience unparalleled service quality and ultra-fast data transmission. This will also bolster the UAE’s ambition of becoming a global hub for technology and innovation.

What is Ciena’s WaveLogic 6?
Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 technology is the latest evolution in optical networking, offering a significant boost in transmission capacity, spectral efficiency, and energy efficiency. Some key features include:
- 800G and Beyond Capabilities: WaveLogic 6 can support data rates of up to 1.6 Tbps per wavelength, providing faster and more efficient data transmission across networks.
- Enhanced Network Automation: The technology leverages AI-driven automation to optimize bandwidth utilization, reducing operational complexities and improving network resilience.
- Lower Energy Consumption: Compared to previous generations, WL6 reduces energy consumption by up to 50%, making it an eco-friendly choice for service providers.
- Optimized for 5G and Cloud Services: WL6 ensures seamless connectivity for cloud-based applications, enterprise networking, and high-capacity 5G backhaul.
Benefits for UAE’s Digital Ecosystem
By deploying Ciena’s WaveLogic 6, e& is paving the way for significant advancements in the UAE’s digital ecosystem. Some of the key benefits include:
- Enhanced User Experience: Faster and more reliable connectivity will improve digital experiences for consumers and businesses alike, whether it’s high-definition streaming, real-time cloud computing, or seamless video conferencing.
- Empowering Smart Cities: The UAE has been at the forefront of smart city initiatives, and with the enhanced network capabilities, innovations such as autonomous vehicles, AI-powered surveillance, and IoT-driven infrastructure can be scaled more effectively.
- Strengthening Enterprise Solutions: Enterprises in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, will benefit from increased bandwidth and ultra-low latency, enabling digital transformation at an unprecedented pace.
- Boosting UAE’s Position as a Tech Hub: The deployment aligns with the UAE’s vision to be a global leader in telecommunications and digital services, attracting further investments in fintech, AI, and blockchain sectors.
Industry Experts Weigh In
The deployment of WaveLogic 6 has been welcomed by industry experts, who view it as a transformative move for regional connectivity.
Ciena’s Senior Vice President of Global Sales, Jamie Jefferies, stated:
“We are thrilled to partner with e& UAE in bringing WaveLogic 6 to the Middle East and Africa for the first time. This deployment will set a new benchmark for high-speed, energy-efficient networking in the region.”
Similarly, an e& UAE representative emphasized:
“As digital transformation accelerates, we need cutting-edge solutions to keep up with growing data demands. With Ciena’s WaveLogic 6, we are reinforcing our commitment to providing world-class connectivity that meets the evolving needs of our customers.”
The Future of Telecommunications in the UAE
The deployment of WaveLogic 6 is just one of many steps that e& is taking to future-proof its network and continue leading the region in digital innovation. With ongoing investments in fiber-optic expansion, AI-driven network management, and 5G ultra-wideband development, the UAE is set to remain a key player in global telecommunications.
As digital services and AI-driven applications become more data-intensive, e&’s early adoption of WL6 technology ensures that it remains ahead of the curve. This move will not only enhance business and consumer connectivity but also drive economic growth by enabling faster adoption of next-generation technologies across industries.
Conclusion
e& UAE’s deployment of Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 technology marks a significant leap forward in the region’s digital transformation journey. By embracing cutting-edge advancements in optical networking, e& is setting new standards for high-speed, sustainable, and scalable connectivity across the Middle East and Africa.
This strategic move will support the UAE’s ambition to be a leading global technology hub, empowering businesses, communities, and smart city initiatives with unmatched digital capabilities. With WaveLogic 6’s ultra-high capacity and energy-efficient features, e& is not just enhancing its network infrastructure—it is shaping the future of telecommunications in the region.
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