du deploys six-carrier aggregation on UAE 5G-Advanced network

Telecommunications provider du has announced the deployment of six-carrier aggregation on its commercial 5G-Advanced standalone network in the United Arab Emirates. This deployment, achieved in collaboration with Nokia, combines 420MHz of spectrum across FDD and TDD bands, including the 3.6GHz, 2.6GHz, 2.1GHz, 1.8GHz, and 600MHz bands.

The technology allows compatible devices to use multiple spectrum channels simultaneously, increasing network capacity and data rates. The upgrade is intended to support data-heavy services, AI-powered features, and next-generation applications. Users with compatible devices in supported areas will see a 5G+ icon.

Saleem AlBlooshi, du’s chief technology officer, stated that the deployment maximizes the operator’s spectrum use and supports the UAE’s transition toward 6G. The implementation utilized Nokia’s Habrok massive MIMO radios and was validated under real-world field conditions rather than in a laboratory setting.