Nokia and du break new ground with first 5G Cloud RAN in the region

In a significant advancement for digital infrastructure, Nokia Corporation and du announced the launch of the first commercial 5G Cloud RAN solution in the Middle East and Africa, marking a pivotal moment for telecommunications in the UAE. This partnership reflects du's strategic approach to a hybrid Radio Access Network (RAN), skillfully merging purpose-built systems with cloud-native solutions aimed at providing improved flexibility and scalability. The deployment, which is seen as crucial for supporting the nation's digital transformation projects, contributes to the enhanced efficiency of networks and helps in meeting the burgeoning demand for advanced connectivity options. The 5G Cloud RAN site is strategically located in Abu Dhabi, based on Nokia's innovative anyRAN approach. Nokia’s deployment includes the integration of their virtualized Distributed Units (vDU) and Centralized Units (vCU), which are powered by Dell PowerEdge XR8620 servers. These servers utilize Red Hat OpenShift, which is recognized as a leading hybrid cloud platform driven by Kubernetes technology. This modern setup allows for the implementation of cloud-native RAN functions, providing service providers, such as du, with the capability to efficiently scale their 5G networks. It also enables quicker rollouts of new services that cater to a variety of consumer and enterprise needs, demonstrating a strong commitment to being at the forefront of telecommunications innovation in the region. The move towards a Cloud RAN framework also aligns with global trends in telecommunications, where providers are becoming increasingly reliant on cloud technologies. Saleem Alblooshi, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of du, emphasized the importance of this infrastructure in not only boosting network efficiency and flexibility but also in exploring new service opportunities. He stated, “Leveraging 5G Cloud RAN will not only enhance our network's efficiency and flexibility but also enable us to explore new opportunities and services that can deliver genuine value to our customers and society at large.” This sentiment reflects the overarching goal of many telecom providers who seek to deliver innovative applications, facilitating advancements in fields such as AI, machine learning, and sector-specific applications. In the wake of this launch, Nokia and du are now better positioned to address the various challenges and opportunities that 5G technology presents. Just last month, Nokia successfully completed a live transport slicing trial with du, showcasing their ability to offer diverse network services that leverage existing infrastructure. This trial is indicative of the growing complexity and capabilities that 5G networks can deliver, especially in dynamic environments like those seen in manufacturing, energy, and logistics industries. The rollout of this infrastructure not only enhances service delivery but also supports wider economic goals as countries look to digital growth to drive future prosperity.