Operator and global technology group e& UAE has deployed what is described as the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC’s) first dual band 64T64R MetaAAU (active antenna unit), an advanced radio unit from technology vendor Huawei, on its live 5G network, a new technology that not only improves how 5G networks perform but also uses less energy and reduces the amount of equipment needed.

The GCC is a political and economic union made up of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The dual band 64T64R MetaAAU combines multiple frequencies (2.6GHz and 3.5GHz) in a single unit, cutting hardware needs and lowering power consumption by 35%. Smart energy-saving features, like symbol-level sleep, lower energy consumption by an additional 15% during low traffic periods.

In addition, the partners say, by using advanced antenna technology with double the capacity of traditional units – 384 antenna units compared to 192 units – the coverage capability is improved significantly, strengthening indoor signals and enhancing connectivity in busy areas by 30% to 60%.

They add that, unlike traditional setups that require separate installations for each band, this integrated solution reduces equipment footprint by 60% and halves the deployment time, making network rollouts quicker and more efficient.

Abdulrahman Al Humaidan, Senior Vice President/Access Network Development, e& UAE, explains: “This deployment is a breakthrough in compact, high-performance network technology and an important marker on our road to net zero by 2030 and 5G-Advanced. By merging two key 5G frequency bands into a single, intelligent unit, we’ve halved the amount of equipment needed at our mobile sites while significantly improving coverage, speed and energy efficiency. It’s a smarter, greener way to deliver better connectivity to our customers.”