Ericsson and e& Signed a Multi-year Agreement to Modernize 5G Core Network
Ericsson has signed a multi-year agreement with global technology group e& to comprehensively upgrade e& UAE’s 5G core network leveraging Ericsson’s advanced cloud-native technology.
The agreement was reached during GITEX GLOBAL 2025 and covers the modernization of core network applications in e& UAE’s existing network, including Unified Data Management (UDM), IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), User Data Convergence (UDC), and Ericsson Security Authorization Server (SES), by adopting Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G core network solution. These applications will operate on a platform combining Ericsson’s cloud-native infrastructure solution with e&’s proprietary cloud, enabling e& UAE to gain cutting-edge 5G capabilities while ensuring platform stability through automation, continuous software updates, and optimization.
This modernization upgrade brings e& closer to achieving its goal of fully deploying next-generation cloud-native 5G core, enabling ultra-fast, highly reliable, and secure on-demand connectivity. It delivers low-latency, consistent service quality, and highly personalized network products, laying the foundation for immersive gaming, mission-critical IoT, and other business scenarios.
Khaled Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Core and Platform at e& UAE, stated: “Upgrading the 5G core network in collaboration with Ericsson aims to make daily connectivity simpler, faster, and more reliable for every individual in the UAE. The new network enables us to launch new services more quickly, reduce latency, enhance call quality, and provide secure and dependable connections to better support diverse enterprise needs—from smart manufacturing to public services.”
Petra Schirren, President of the Gulf Countries in Ericsson’s Europe, Middle East, and Africa region, stated: “Our collaboration with e& UAE reflects a shared commitment to supporting the country’s digital transformation and vision for technological leadership. Under this agreement, we are delivering secure, high-performance connectivity to empower innovation across industries and accelerate the deployment of new 5G use cases. This partnership once again demonstrates Ericsson’s continued dedication to e& UAE and underscores the critical role of advanced networks in driving competitiveness and sustainable growth.”
Ericsson and e& UAE have a long-term partnership, playing a pivotal role in advancing the telecommunications infrastructure in the UAE. Together, they have achieved numerous milestones, including the deployment of advanced 4G and 5G networks, expanding core network capabilities to enhance connectivity, opening up 5G capabilities to application developers, and launching innovative digital services nationwide. This agreement builds upon the 5G UDM contract signed in 2020, further solidifying Ericsson’s position as a key partner in e& UAE’s core network.