Happy New Year

Our best wishes to you and your family for a peaceful and prosperous year in 2011.

New addition to the MyPlan handsets - BlackBerry® Bold™ 9780

It's here! The new BlackBerry® Bold™ 9780 smartphone – the newest addition to the BlackBerry Bold series of smartphones. The elegantly styled new phone and email device has an incredibly easy-to-use keyboard and optical trackpad and is packed with advanced communications and multimedia features. It is also the first BlackBerry Bold smartphone to come with the new BlackBerry® 6 operating system.

Key Features

• High-resolution 480x360 pixel color display
• 3G network support
• 5 MP camera and video recording
• Wi-Fi®
• GPS
• Expandable memory —support for microSD card
• 512 MB onboard memory, 2 GB media card included

The BlackBerry Bold 9780 smartphone will be available at all our business centers and outlets from the 29th December 2010. If you are already an Etisalat Blackberry customer you can upgrade to the new Bold 9780 for just AED 2,199.

Our flexible MyPlan packages give you 3 options to build the right package for your Blackberry and when you chose our great value Plus and Ultra packages your new Blackberry Bold 9780 is FREE! All the MyPlan packages can be personalised with a range of add-ons to give you the best possible value for your needs. Details of the add-ons are here.

MyPlan package details

Blackberry services such as email, Blackberry Messenger and social networking are also available to MyPlan subscribers. Details of the Blackberry service packages are here.

We know our business customers depend on their Blackberrys and the new packages for My Business Plan give you the flexible options you need to keep your business communications running smoothly.

My Business Plan package details

My Business Plan packages can also be personalised with the full range of MyPlan add-ons, giving you the best possible value for your business needs. Blackberry services such as email, Blackberry Messenger and social networking are also available to My Business Plan subscribers. Details of the Blackberry service packages are here

All the Blackberry smartphones are available on both MyPlan and My Business Plan packages. They are discounted when you sign up for a 12 month subscription and FREE when you chose the MyPlan or My Business Plan Ultra packages.

Handset prices (in AED) for My Plan and My Business Plan subscribers

Now you can apply for eLife Triple play online - and maybe win FIFA Club World Cup tickets too!

We've made it easier for you to apply for eLife, and if you are quick you could win a pair of football tickets.

Subscribe to eLife Triple Play online through www.etisalat.ae/elife and get a chance to win 2 FREE tickets to watch one match of FIFA Club World Cup 2010. All the Club World Cup Matches are being held in Abu Dhabi.

We will be drawing names to win tickets as follows

• Sunday December 12 (Yes, that's today!) one winner will receive 2 tickets for the match on Tuesday December 14
• Monday December 13 - one winner will receive 2 tickets for the match on Wednesday December 15
• Wednesday December 15 - one winner will receive 2 tickets for the final Club World Cup match on December 18

So what are you waiting for? If you have been thinking of subscribing to eLife or upgrading to Triple Play do it now! Apply online here. You could win FIFA Club World Cup tickets, as well as enjoying the rest of the EPL season in 'almost like being there' HD TV. Check the full details of our eLife Triple Play package here, chose the options that works best for you and subscribe online here

Details:

This offer is available to all new & migrated eLife customers (any speed), who subscribe to eLife Triple Play through online subscription from today until 14th Dec.

Do you have an HD TV?

Did you know that you need a subscription that includes HD (High Definition) channels to get the full 'almost like being there' experience from your HD TV? We offer 23 HD channels through our eLife triple play and e-vision services so you can get the full high definition experience on your HD TV. Ten of those are sports channels because sports, and especially football, is the one of the places where HD TV truly makes a difference. We're crazy about football here at Etisalat and watching your favourite team in HD is the next best thing to being at the match in person.


Of course this month we have football clubs from across the world right here in the UAE. With all the teams for the FIFA Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi we all get the chance to enjoy matches live as well as in HD TV at home, and the lucky winner of our #3x3HD twitter contest will get the best seats in the house for the final game on December the 18th.

#3x3HD contest on twitter

Here's how the contest works. We'll ask one question every day for three days on twitter. To win a place in the draw you must answer correctly before we tweet the answer on the following morning. If you answer correctly your name goes into the draw to win THREE category 1 tickets to the final on December 18 at Zayed Sports City. So watch for our tweets starting on Thursday 9th. We will tweet one question each day. Please include the hashtag #3x3HD in your answers.


Good luck. Tweet with us @EtisalatUAE if you have queries and wait for those questions!

Football like you've never seen it before

Update: #3x3sky extended for Friday

The excitement around the ‘Etisalat Match in the Sky’ and our #3x3sky contest on twitter has persuaded us to extend the contest. We will give two more lucky winners tickets for 'Penalty shoot out in the sky’. We’re in ‘shoot out’ mode too so on Friday there will only be two questions and you only need one correct answer for a place in the draw.

Tomorrow really is the last day. Look out for the questions from @EtisalatUAE on twitter and send in your answers for your chance at ‘Penalty shoot out in the sky’.

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Here at Etisalat we pride ourselves on bringing you the newest and best communications technology available in the world. And then some days we completely lose our heads and bring you . . . football on a vertical pitch. Yes. It's true! From now until December 4 you can watch the Etisalat Match in the Sky at the football village on the Abu Dhabi Corniche. You can even win a chance to join in!

You already know we are football crazy. We bring you the world's most exciting matches in HD TV and we sponsor Manchester City and FC Barcelona as well as club and local teams everywhere we work across the world. Now we have brought football's newest entertainment 'Etisalat Match in the Sky' here to the UAE. Football on a vertical pitch with players on bungee cords. Visitors to Football Village are marvelling at the skills of these acrobatic players.

Football Village is open from from 5pm-11pm mid week and from 2pm to 11pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. There are UAE FA coaches on-hand to share their advice and expertise, technical drill zones where football enthusiasts can refine their skills, mini pitches for the youngsters and big screens showing this week's big games. Take the family along! Etisalat Match in the Sky is played 3 times every day.

#3x3sky twitter contest

Are you the kind of football fan who is 'up for anything'? Would you like a chance at a penalty shoot out up there with our 'Match in the Sky' players'? We have tickets to give away.

We are tweeting 3 questions each day this week. If you answer the 3 questions correctly before we tweet the answers the following morning your name will go into the draw for penalty shoot out in the sky tickets. Send us your answers by direct message (DM). Include the hashtag #3x3sky in your answers for your chance to win.

So watch out for our question tweets starting and get ready to experience the very best football can offer with Etisalat!

Catch Football Fever in Abu Dhabi

We're warming up for the FIFA Club World Cup that begins in Abu Dhabi on December 8. Football Village is already open on the Abu Dhabi Corniche by the East Plaza and it's sure to be full of fans this weekend watching the Premier League games on the big screens and enjoying all the football activities, including the amazing Etisalat Match in the Sky!

As you'd expect we are planning a BIG twitter contest with amazing prizes to celebrate the FIFA Club World Cup. The contest is called 3x3HD. We will tweet 3 questions a day for 3 days. Next week you can win a chance to join the guys up there on the 'Etisalat Match in the Sky'. It's a jawdropping vertical football pitch where the world's most daring footballers play an amazing sky-high game. Lucky winners who answer our contest questions correctly will get to join the players up there for a penalty shoot out.

During the tournament the big prize to end our 3x3HD contest will be tickets for the best seats in the stadium for the final Club World Cup game on December 18. Full details will come later but we promise you will be glued to your twitter screen that week too, watching for the questions and finding the answers.

So what does the HD mean? Remember we said 3x3HD? Well for the rest of the year, when we don't have international football games right here in the UAE, eLife HD (High Definition) TV is the best way to enjoy 'almost like being there' football in your own home. When you subscribe or upgrade to eLife Triple play you get to watch all the Premier League games for free through our Abu Dhabi Sports Package on eLife and E-Vision. Current eLife triple play and E-Vision customers can enjoy watching the Barclays Premier League for only AED 29 per month for a 12 month subscription.

We'll be telling you more about HD TV during the 3x3HD contest - so watch this space.

Check your speed

Accurate internet speed tests now available in the UAE

Try this link and test your connection speed.

Until now our closest speed test options have been based in Qatar and have not given accurate responses for UAE internet users. The TRA (Telecommunications Regulatory Authority) now provides this truly local way to accurately test connection speeds. You can use it directly from the TRA website here or through our website here.

Many things affect your internet speed, including the number of computers and other devices using the connection, your browser and programs running in the background on your computer. We have a detailed set of FAQs here to explain more about internet connection speeds.

Try it today!

Introducing MyPlan and your new mobile services options

Our new mobile services come in one simple package - MyPlan. This new service lets you chose the right options for your needs and lifestyle, and choosing just the options you need means you get the best possible value from MyPlan.

Click on the image above for a larger view

If you need a new account or want to upgrade from Wasel prepaid your initial AED125 fee will be returned as credits over your first 3 months using MyPlan. Existing prepaid cutomers can also call 101 to switch to MyPlan now and get free call credit worth AED240

How to subscribe

When you are ready to switch to MyPlan or take advantage of our money back new subscription offer just call us on 101, visit your local Etisalat service centre or subscribe directly from your Etisalat.ae online account page.

Want to know more? Check the MyPlan page at www.etisalat.ae and read the following articles about upgrades and handsets, add-ons and international calling.

MyPlan - upgrades and handsets

With MyPlan you decide when you are ready to upgrade from your existing plan to a new MyPlan package, and whether to chose a new handset or stay with a normal monthly plan. You can continue with your existing plan or switch as soon as you like.

Before you decide you might want to take a look at the great offers for free and heavily discounted handsets - and yes, iphone 4 and the Blackberry Torch are included, along with Sony Ericsson and the Samsung Galaxy Tab. Handset prices depend on the MyPlan package you chose.

Want to know more? Check the MyPlan page at www.etisalat.ae and read the other 2 articles introducing MyPlan, add-ons and international calling.

My Plan - personalise your mobile package with Add-ons

When you chose MyPlan you can decide which Add-ons offer you the best value on top of your main package. You can see details of the 4 package options here and on our main Myplan website page.


If you make a lot of international calls you can also chose from our Favourite Country, Super Off-Peak and Global Friends and Family options.

How to subscribe
When you are ready to switch to MyPlan or take advantage of our money back new subscription offer just call us on 101, visit your local Etisalat service centre or subscribe directly from your Etisalat.ae/online account page.

Full terms and conditions for the MyPlan packages are listed on the website here.

Eid Greetings and our special holiday off-peak hours

We wish all our customers, employees and their families a happy and joyous Eid Al Adha

We all want to reach out and greet friends and family during the Arafat day and Eid holidays, so special off-peak holiday calling rates start at 9pm on Sunday November 14. All mobile and fixed-line international calls will be charged at off-peak rates until 7am on Saturday, 20 November, 2010.

Take advantage of our special holiday off-peak rates to share your joy and good wishes with loved ones anywhere in the world.

To ensure that customers can access services throughout the holidays, Etisalat’s dedicated outlets in malls across the UAE will be open for normal working hours. Business and Service Centers will be closed on 16 November and selected Business Centers will be open 9AM-2PM for the rest of the holiday.

Unmatched family entertainment during Eid Al Adha

We have a real treat for eLife (Triple Play) and e-vision customers during the Eid holidays. We have made all our TV channels free to view from 15th to 20th November - thats 300 channels of premium television content at no additional cost.

The free viewing includes 22 High Definition channels, as well as popular channels from OSN, Pehla, Firstnet, ART, TFC, AD Media with English Premier League matches and many more options of top quality family entertainment.

Enjoy the festive season and Eid holidays with eLife and e-vision from Etisalat.

Up to 40% back when you talk more with Etisalat Wasel prepaid

Sharing the joy of Eid Al Adha, we have a special free credit back offer for Wasel prepaid customers starting today (15 November 2010) for three months. This value-packed offer rewards you for simply making calls and gives you back a higher value of extra credit each time you talk from your Wasel prepaid account. As part of the new promotion, you can get back up to AED 240.

If you are a Wasel customer and you make local or international phone calls any time during the day then you are eligible for the offer. Depending on the usage, you can receive up to 40% of the used talk time, the bonus value is then credited back into your account as soon as you cross the set usage limits within a month. Usage is calculated on a monthly basis every 30 days starting from the 1st day of the promotion. The free credit can be used for making both local as well as international voice calls and for sending text messages within the validity period.


The promotion will also soon be extended to postpaid customers too.
If you are a Wasel prepaid customer you can opt in by simply sending an SMS with the character U to 1010, and join the promotion without any monthly rental or connection fee. For your convenience We will notify you via SMS every time you receive your bonus credit. In addition, you can check your free talk time balance by calling *121*2# and you can check your accumulated usage by calling *144*4#.

For more information you can call 800PROMO (77666).

Haj roaming offer and new Saudi Arabia roaming prices

To celebrate the Haj 2010 we are offering free incoming roaming calls in Saudi Arabia between 08/11/2010 and 21/11/2010.

In addition, to make everything a little simpler whilst in Saudi Arabia, we have a new flat rate of AED 1.25/min for outgoing calls to local, UAE and GCC destinations. AED 1.25/min for incoming calls outside of the Haj period and, yes you guessed it, AED 1.25 for all outgoing SMS.

Of course, we haven’t forgotten calls to other Arab destinations and the rest of the world. We now offer a flat rate of AED 5/min for calling other Arab destinations, and AED 10/min for all other international destinations.


These offers are for all our postpaid and Wasel subscribers when using the Mobily network. For more information please call 101, the only thing you need to do to take advantage of these prices is select Mobily when you roam in Saudi Arabia.

New Wasel Homeland International plan

Cheaper calls to Asian countries during our new extended off-peak hours

Call friends and family in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Philippines at a great new rate of 99 fils/minute. With our new international-calling ‘Wasel Homeland’ plan Wasel prepaid mobile customers enjoy the discount rate during special off-peak hours from 5pm to 9am, Saturday to Thursday, throughout the day on Friday and public holidays.

Extended off-peak hours mean you can call your family when it's convenient and not worry about time differences. You can comfortably talk for longer between the UAE and Asia.

No rentals or subscription fees, all local calls will be charged at 35 fils/min for the first minute and a flat day rate of 30 fils/min from the second minute onwards. Other international calls will not be affected and will be charged as per the normal rate and timings.

Subscribe to the 99 fils Wasel Homeland plan by sending an SMS, ‘e99’ to 1010. You can also subscribe through IVR (Interactive Voice Response) by calling 125, select ‘3’ and then select ‘1’ for the “Wasel Homeland” plan. You can also call customer service at 800 PROMO (77666) or visit your nearest Etisalat business center or outlet to subscribe or unsubscribe.


Find out more at here at etisalat.ae

Get more from your MORE reward points during GITEX technology week

Now you can now manage and redeem your MORE reward points online. At our newly launched online rewards shop you can chose to spend your Etisalat MORE reward points on talk time, partner vouchers or 3,000 other product and service options - all online through our convenient new online rewards shop. Register online for MORE rewards during GITEX technology week and you will receive 2500 bonus points that can be redeemed online instantly for talk time worth AED25.

During this week you can also use your reward points to enter a prize draw for a travel package, including air tickets, accommodation, transfers, match tickets, to see the match between Manchester City and Manchester United on November the 10th. MORE rewards members will receive an entry ticket for 700 MORE reward points. The draw will be held on October the 27th and the lucky Winners will watch the match from the the Mancunian VIP stand.

Etisalat is the first telcom operator in the world to launch an online shop for it's reward program and to celebrate this we are giving #GITEX visitors the chance to win 2500 more points when they correctly answer questions at our stand in Za'abeel Hall.

H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad, the UAE Minister of Environment launched the new service yesterday. He used Etisalat's online MORE rewards shop to make an online donation of one million MORE reward points to Special Care Centre, Abu Dhabi on the main stage at the GITEX.

Special Offers for Gitex 2010

GITEX may be over but some of our Technology Week special offers are still available


Switch from Wasel to postpaid for free
Thinking about switching to postpaid? This is the best time to do it! Move to postpaid GSM for free until the end of this year and keep both your phone number and SIM card. You will also get free credit worth AED 240 spread over a year to use for voice calls or SMS both local and international rates.


Mobile TV on your 3G phone.
Try our mobile TV service for only AED 20 for the first 2 months (usually AED 39). Send an SMS with 'r mtv' to 1010 before November 15 to try it out!

Free Etisalat Messenger for a month!
Our messenger service enables family and friend to stay in touch across Etisalat's mobile network. Send instant messages, photos, videos and sound clips between phones and/or computers. You can message in English or Arabic and see your last 50 messges when you are online. To get your first month of unlimited use for free send an SMS “r em chatplus“ to 1010 . Offer valid until November 15th 2010.


Send a voice message as an SMS
Sometimes friends and family just want to hear your voice, and it can be quicker to send a voice message than switch languages on your mobile. Until November 15th you can send voice SMS messages for only 18fils. To send a voice SMS message key *followed by the mobile number you wish to send the message to. Record your message when you hear the tone and then end the call. Voice messages are stored just like other SMS messages. Listen whenever you like.
Voice SMS messages cost just 18fils each until Novembber the 15th. Nothing to sign up for and no subscription needed. Just key * before the number and send you message.


Vringo
Fun video ringtones from Vringo for free until November 15th. Subscribe to Vringo by sending an SMS with "r Vringo" to 1010 before November 15 and your first month's rental is free. Get a fun video ringtome for each of your favourite callers from Vringo's huge collection and change your video ringtone as often as you like.

Blackberry® Announcement

Since the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority’s August 1 announcement regarding the possible suspension of certain Blackberry applications, our focus has always been to ensure continuity of service for our customers. With the TRA’s notification of uninterrupted Blackberry® services in the UAE, we are pleased to confirm that all Blackberry® services will continue to operate as normal.

As a service provider to over 80% BlackBerry® users in the UAE, we will continue offering exceptional services to all our existing and future BlackBerry® customers. In light of the TRA decision, the alternative mobility packages we announced in August, for its existing BlackBerry customers, are no longer applicable.

We will also be launching two new BlackBerry devices – the Torch and the New Curve, along with other exciting offers in the coming days.

Gear up to become the next F1x3 racer

Once again you have a chance to race the superfast Etisalat F1x3 car at the Dubai Aerodrome. Everyone was so excited about last year's event we have brought back the Etisalat F1x3 car to give more people the chance to enjoy the larger-than-life experience of Formula 1 racing, up close and real.

Our F1x3 car is an original F1 racing car with three seats specially designed to give you the ultimate racing experience on the track. Lucky winners will get the chance to ride in this dream car at the Dubai Autodrome on 29th and 30th October with a professional race driver. You can enter the draw for a chance to ride in the car by simply sending a text message 'F1x3' to 1110. You will get one draw entry and one week of F1 race alerts for free. You can call 800 PROMO for more information on the prize draw.

The F1x3 car will be displayed at the GITEX Shopper 2010 from 16-23 October where motor enthusiasts can get a first hand feel for the car. It carries three passengers at a time with the engine capacity, accelaration, maximum speed, look and feel of a Formula 1 racing car. The car can reach speeds of around 300 km/hr and accelerates from 0 to 200 in 4.8 seconds.

Race days feature controlled drives with professionals experienced in international championships, so you will hit those extraordinary speeds in safe hands. Passengers will be equipped with FIA homologated overalls, boots, gloves and helmet.

All entries for the draw must include name and passport details. To claim their prize winners must not be taller than 1.9 meters or weigh more than 100 kgs. Winners who are under 18 will need to supply parental authorization for the ride and be accompanied by a parent or a legal tutor.

What are you waiting for?

Text message 'F1x3', to 1110 today and enter for your chance of the ride of a lifetime

Mobile Data Backup service

No more worries about losing the important data stored on your phone. With our Data Backup service you can keep a safe copy of your contacts, calendar entries, messages, photos, videos, music and ringtones. Safeguard yourself against theft, accidental damage or loss of your mobile.

Backups can be done at any time, you can also setup automatic backups at regular intervals. You can access your stored data using a secure website on your PC or through your mobile. Restoring your data to any phone, new or old, is quick and easy.

The Data Backup service also means you can lock a phone if it is stolen and then wipe the data from it remotely, rendering it useless to the thief.

The service costs AED 10 a month, with no charges for uploading data (unless you are outside the UAE). The Data Backup service is available on most handsets, check out the compatibility list here to be sure.

To subscribe simply send an SMS containing “r backup” to 1010, or call 125. More information is available on our website: www.etisalat.ae/mobilebackup or by calling 101.

iPhone 4 price plans

The news you have all been waiting for...


*As per fair usage policy up to 2GB

Prices are based on a 1 year contract.

More good news. We will soon be announcing tailor made options for existing iPhone 3G/3GS postpaid subscribers who would like to upgrade to iPhone 4.

The iPhone 4 requires a special SIM, different from the ones used in other mobile devices. This is called a microSIM. When you buy your iPhone 4 you can choose whether to exchange your current SIM for a microSIM or use the microSIM as a secondary SIM card.

Visit your nearest Etisalat store from Saturday September 25 to get your iphone 4 and then tell us about your new iphone on Twitter: @etisalatUAE.

iPhone 4 coming to the UAE on September 25th

We are bringing the much anticipated iPhone 4 to the UAE from the 25th September.

The iPhone 4 features a stunning Retina display, 5MP camera and HD video recording. It’s the thinnest Smartphone available on the market and comes with IOS 4, the most advanced mobile operating system.

The iPhone 4 offers 40 percent longer battery life and access to over 200,000 apps, including the specially built iMovie.

Prices will be available over the coming days. Stay posted for more information.

Double “More” Reward Points for Online Services’ users

Pay your bills online without leaving the comfort of your seat, and be rewarded with double “More” Reward Points. For the next 3 months (until 22nd November) if you pay your Postpaid bill online, or recharge your Wasel account you will receive double “More” Reward Points , which means 2 points for every AED1 spent.

Members can redeem their reward points for Etisalat’s services, Etihad Guest Miles or at a host of partner outlets.

For more information see www.etisalat.ae/payandearn or call 80077666. To get involved simply register at www.etisalat.ae/online and pay at a click of a button.

99fils per minute calls to Pakistan

With the recent catastrophe we know you want to talk to your friends and family in Pakistan. Also, those of us without immediate worries about the safety of loved ones will want to contribute to flood relief organizations in the region.

Wasel subscribers can get 99fils per minute calls to Pakistan and the rest of the subcontinent until September 19th. Calls are just 99fils per minute during extended off peak hours of 5 pm to 9 am every day and all day on Fridays. Wasel prepaid customers can simply send SMS ‘e 99’ to 1010 in order to subscribe to the service with no monthly charges. Other national and international calls will not be affected. For more information call 80077666 or visit www.etisalat.ae/idd.

If you prefer to contribute to flood relief efforts via a trusted UAE-based organisation @Hamasaaat recently sent us this from the UAE Red Crescent. You can also visit their website or call them for free on 800-RED (733).

Getting closer to you

Today, we opened our first dedicated outlet at the Dubai Sillicon Oasis, offering priority based services to our Freezone customers. Dubai Sillicon Oasis is the region’s leading technology hub and is considered one of the world’s leading centers of advanced electronic innovation.

Operational from 09:00hrs to 17:00hrs, Sunday to Thursday, the new Etisalat outlet will benefit all companies operating at the Freezone employing more than 2,500 people. This is the beginning of a partnership between Etisalat and DSOA aimed at delivering enhanced ICT services for tenants at the Freezone and direct access to Etisalat services.

Present at the inauguration were Shahla Abdul Razek, Deputy CEO of Dubai Sillicon Oasis Authority (DSOA) and Mustafa Al Shareef, Senior Vice President Sales – Etisalat, as well as many others.

Etisalat’s F1x3 is back and looking for passengers!

A great opportunity to experience the speed, adrenaline rush and excitement of live racing in an F1x3 car - just text 'F1X3' to 1110 to enter



For the second year we are offering motorsport fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to win a live racing experience. Etisalat's unique promotion for speed enthusiasts, gives you the chance to race in the superfast Etisalat F1x3 car. This is an original racing car with three seats specially designed to provide the ultimate racing experience on the track.

With the Formula 1 season underway and the second Abu Dhabi Grand Prix getting closer lucky customers get the chance to race in the specially designed F1x3 car during October with a professional race driver.

To enter the draw to win simply text the message 'F1X3' to 1110, to get one draw entry and one week race alerts for free. You can also call 800 PROMO for more information on the promotion.

Etisalat has bought exclusive rights, to the F1x3 car specially designed to accommodate a driver and two passengers at a time. The car specifications are similar to a real racing car, including the engine capacity, acceleration, maximum speed as well as the look and feel.

The car is capable of hitting speeds of over 300 km/hr and accelerates from 0 to 200 in 4.8 seconds. It will be on display to all motor enthusiasts at malls in the Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi during October. Sports fans can also get a first hand feel of the F1x3 cars at Gitex Shopper 2010 from 16 to 23 October.

The race features a completely controlled and safe drive by professionals experienced in international championships, enabling them to hit extraordinary speeds in the safest way possible. Passengers will be equipped with FIA homologated overalls, boots, gloves and helmet and medical units will be operational at the track.

To be eligible for entry you must not exceed 1.9 meters or 100kgs. If you are deemed to be below the age limit you will be required to submit a parental authorization and will need to be accompanied by a parent or a legal tutor. Winners must provide name and passport details to verify your entry.

Etisalat Sponsors Shaabiyat Al Cartoon

Today we announced our official sponsorship of Shaabiyat Al Cartoon, which premieres its 5th season in the holy month of Ramadan.

The animated Arabic cartoon series launches a new season each Ramadan on Sama Dubai TV, with a 15 minute episode aired daily after iftar.

On the announcement Khalifa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Etisalat, said: “Through this sponsorship, we are also delighted to have the opportunity to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan and help spread awareness about Emirati culture, traditions and lifestyle across the multi-cultural population living in the UAE.”

But wait, there’s more. To add to the excitement fans can subscribe to receive Shaabiyat Al Cartoon videos, ringtones and wallpapers by sending SMS ‘SHA3BIA’ to 1110, subscription charged at AED 5 per week.

In addition, we’re introducing a specially developed micro-site under ‘Etisalat Mobile Portal’, dedicated to Shaabiyat Al Cartoon. The portal will allow fans to enjoy various ringtones and wallpapers of the cartoon, simply visit http://mobile.weyak.ae from your mobile.

Barclays Premier League coming to you in HD

The Premier League is back in full swing and you can watch it all with us through our Abu Dhabi Sports Package on eLife and E-Vision. All 380 matches of the Barclays English Premier League season will be broadcast live across 6 channels, that’s 34,200 minutes (plus stoppage time of course) of high definition action from the fastest league in the world.

This package is available, at no additional cost, to new customers subscribing, or upgrading an existing single or eLife double play package to eLife triple play Master, Premier or Max packages. All other eLife triple play as well as E-Vision customers can enjoy watching the Barclays Premier League for only AED 29 per month for a 12 month subscription.

If this isn’t enough, through our partnership with Manchester City FC, you could win tickets to watch live from the stadium. To enter simply subscribe to Manchester City FC news alerts by sending ‘MC’ via SMS to 1110.

For more information click here, or to sign-up, call 80077666.

Etisalat gets ‘Superbrand’ recognition

We wouldn't normally boast about such things but Al Bawaba has already mentioned this so we must thank Superbrands. They awarded Etisalat UAE Superbrand status at their event at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City.

The award recognises our brand values characterized by a focus on innovation, reliability, value, customer-centricity and a commitment to breaking new ground in the Middle East, North Africa and beyond.

Commenting on Etisalat’s new Superbrand status Haitham Al Kharusi, Vice President of Marketing Communications said, “Superbrands awards the UAE’s top brands and we are glad to receive this honour in recognition of Etisalat’s core brand values and achievements in the UAE for over three decades,”

Here at Etisalat we are very proud of having made the UAE one of the most connected nations on the planet. We have 7.8 million mobile customers, 1.28 million fixed line subscribers and 1.39 million internet users. We have made AED 5 billion in investments to bring the revolutionary fiber-optic network to the UAE, enabling a whole new entertainment and communication experience for our customers through our eLife services.

We work hard to bring these services to our customers, and if you are pleased, then we are pleased. Still, it’s always nice when the hard work brings some recognition.

Superbrand! That’s us!

99 fils/min Calls to South Asian Subcontinent on Wasel

Wasel subscribers, would you like cheaper calls and extended off peak hours for calling the South Asian subcontinent? Now you have it. Today we announced a new promotion offering you the heavily discounted rate of 99 fils per minute when calling India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal. The off peak hours have also been extended to 5pm to 9am, Saturday to Thursday and all day on Friday.

This promotion runs throughout the summer and is valid until the 19th September. To subscribe simply, send an SMS saying “e 99” to 1010 from the Wasel number. Other national and international calls are not affected.

For more information on Wasel offers, customers can call 800 PROMO (77666) or visit www.etisalat.ae/idd.

Etisalat Offer ‘Edutainment’ and Exclusive Content

Today Etisalat have agreed a partnership with Rubicon Group Holding to bring you exclusive games, cartoons and applications, which can be downloaded via mobile, TV or through the Internet.

The brand new material, created and managed by Rubicon Group Holding, is designed specifically as ‘edutainment’ that will aid learning and educate younger viewers in an entertaining format.

Training games and simulations are proven to help increase skills and improve knowledge retention in children. Many parents are eager to expose their children to richer learning experiences and take every possible opportunity to improve their child’s educational development. This partnership will give children educational experiences while they play - whether on mobile devices, TV or a PC.

The first games and programmes will be available before the end of 2010, and will be launched in Arabic and English in the UAE. The scheme will later be expanded to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and Sudan.

Special Offers Every Monday for Etisalat More Members

Monday just got better thanks to the latest initiative from Etisalat More. Every Monday Etisalat More members will receive special discounts, free gifts, services and other privileges when they shop with the programme partners. All you have to do is present your card at the time of shopping.

This innovative concept has been introduced in partnership with famous lifestyle brands such as Joy Alukkas, Al Jaber Optical Centre, Wafi F&B and many more.

For additional information check out http://www.moremondays.net, or you can SMS “MONDAY” to 1010 to get details on the offers every week.

Don’t forget, if you sign up for Etisalat More online right now you get a 1200 ‘More’ points bonus.

Etisalat Takes to the Skies

Etisalat are the only UAE service provider to offer a loyalty programme. Now a new partnership between Etisalat More and Etihad Guest makes your Etisalat More points even more valuable.

From today you can convert six More points into one Etihad Guest Mile. Etihad Guest miles can be redeemed on 1800 flight and non-flight rewards from over 200 partners. You earn one More point for each AED1 you spend on either a Wasel prepaid or GSM postpaid account.

Abdulla Hashim, Etisalat’s Senior Vice President of Business Solutions, said “By simply using their mobile phones, customers earn More points and now get the dual benefit of converting them into Etihad Guest Miles.”

There are three different tiers for More members, “More Gold”, “More Silver” and “More”. The partnership is scheme is open to members of all three tiers.

Not a More member yet? If you register now through the website www.etisalat.ae/more you will receive 1200 bonus points, which could be converted to 200 miles.

Keep Unwanted SMS Away

Etisalat are committed to keeping their customers up to date with the latest offers and best deals. Customers who are happy with their current package can now opt out of receiving promotional SMS’ thanks to an innovative solution from Etisalat.

We have listened to our customers and worked with the TRA (Telecoms Regulatory Authority) and can now offer you a convenient option to stop receiving promotional marketing SMS’. All you need do is send an SMS to 1011 saying “b etisalat” to stop receiving them. If you want to start receiving the SMS’ again you can text “ub etisalat” to 1011.

When asked Khalifa Al Shamsi, Etisalat’s Senior Vice President of Marketing said, “Etisalat has always been extremely attentive towards the needs of its valued customers and it is our responsibility to ensure them maximum flexibility in the way they use and enjoy Etisalat services.

If you’ve turned off the promotional SMS' and still want to see the latest offers just check out the website.

The Future of UAE Telecoms

Today, telecoms in the UAE took a significant step forward with the announcement of infrastructure sharing between providers. As the architect of the UAE telecommunications infrastructure, Etisalat has invested AED 5 Billion in its fiber-optic network to offer the fastest broadband speeds, advanced voice services and next generation TV services such as 3D to its customers.

In simple terms this means that Etisalat’s benefits will be extended to those unlucky folks who until now were unable to receive them. This expansion takes Etisalat’s service to areas such as Dubai Internet City, TECOM and the new residential areas.

Senior Vice President of Business Solutions, Adbulla Hashim said, “Etisalat welcomes true competition in the UAE. This is a progressive step that will provide a rightful choice to our customers...”

This move will empower all customers to take advantage of Etisalat’s competitive fixed-line services and lucrative offers which are supported through its wide network of customer care centers and advanced online solutions.

New Summer Roaming Package

Etisalat is making it easier for everyone who is going away this summer to keep their costs down and stay connected with friends and family. Two new roaming packages are available to both prepaid and postpaid customers until 20th September.

Both packages give you 100 minutes of voice and video calls, valid for one month from the point of activation. Incoming calls outside of these 100 minutes will be charged at only AED 1 during the subscription period.

If you travel to the Arab countries, this will cost you AED 100 for a month’s subscription. To activate simply send “r arab100” by text to 1010. For those going further afield you need the global package, which costs AED 200 for the month. To activate this package send “r row 200” to 1010.

For more information on either package call the Etisalat travelers number 8002300 within UAE and 00971 8002300 from abroad. You can also visit www.etisalat.ae/roaming for more information.

Have a great summer!

Shift from Prepaid to Postpaid for Free

Are you a prepaid Wasel user who wants to shift to a postpaid account instead? Well today is your lucky day!

For a limited time you can transfer your Wasel account across to a postpaid GSM account free of charge. You get to keep your current SIM card and number. Not to mention the AED 240 of free credit (AED 20 per month for 12 months). Migrating allows you to take advantage of all the other discount options available to postpaid customers.

To immediately migrate your account you just need to dial 101, or pop into your local Etisalat outlet. For more information take a look at the latest offers section here.

How to be a Winner

Our World Cup Contest is in full swing, so here's a little more information on what you need to do to be a winner, and what you can win in each draw.

We'll start with how to win, as this is likely to be the most important to you. Everyone who enters a picture (read here for how to enter) will have their name added to the hat, more commonly known as the “Etisal-Hat”. Your name will go into the “Etisal-Hat” once for every entry you submit, so if you want more chances of winning, enter lots of different pictures. Don't forget to tag entries with #etisalatfc and tweet them to @EtisalatUAE or we won't see them.

There are 4 draw dates, June 24, July 1, July 8 and July 11, on each of these dates one handset will be given away. On June 24 you are playing for a BlackBerry Javelin, July 1 is for an iPhone 3GS, July 8 is for the second BlackBerry Javelin and finally on July 11 for the second iPhone 3GS.

There's still plenty of time to get your entries in for the first draw on Thursday, so get supporting, get tweeting, and get those entries in. We look forward to seeing what you come up with.`

We want to see your World Cup Pictures

If you follow @EtisalatUAE on twitter you have probably seen tweets about our World Cup Contest? We have two iPhone 3GS handsets and two BlackBerry Javelin smartphones to give away between now and the World Cup Final on 11^th July. We want to know how are you celebrating and showing your support for your team? You’ve seen the guys on our home page , what does match time look like at your place?

What are you doing to show which team you support? We’ve seen flags waving from cars, people in hats, painted faces and windows and office cubicles festooned with flags. How are you celebrating? Tweet us @EtisalatUAE and send us a link to your picture on twitpic, yfrog or another twitter picture site. We will keep your pictures in our favourites file on twitter.

We will be running twitter prize draws on June 24, July 1, July 8 and July 11 to decide which pictures win the prizes.

1. Tweet a picture to @EtisalatUAE showing how you support your favourite World Cup team (Use twitpic, yfrog or another twitter photo sharing service)
2. Include the hashtag #etisalatfc
3. Check our favourites to see a selection of the pictures
4. Watch our tweets for the draw times
5. Wait to see if you are a winner for a BlackBerry or an iPhone 3GS

Good Luck!

Links:

Follow Etisalat on twitter

Use twitpic or Yfrog to post your pictures

See the pictures in our favourites file

The small print:

By posting your pictures on the internet your are making them public and their subsequent use can not be controlled by Etisalat. You are giving us permission to file your twitter message about your pictures in our favourites file on twitter, and to talk about your picture on twitter (don't worry we will be kind!) Pictures that you do not wish to be seen in the public domain are not eligable for this contest. Etisalat reserves the right to decide which pictures are added to the favourites file and included in the prize draws.

Hot news - Live EPL with Etisalat

Hot news! We will soon be announcing our new Abu Dhabi Sports Package with ALL 380 Barclays Premier League Games LIVE and in HD. Watch this space for more information soon.

Stay on top of the game with Etisalat’s special 2010 World Cup mobile services and fun-filled activities across UAE

In summary

• Etisalat’s dedicated 2010 World Cup Mobile Portal, SMS Service and Greetunes
• 2010 World Cup special screening venues and activities at Etisalat Outlets in Malls across the country

'Football is very close to our hearts' commented Khalifa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Etisalat. Now you can follow every detail of every game being played in South Africa throughout the tournament with dedicated Etisalat 2010 World Cup services.
Goal subscription service: Get all the goal action to your mobile via SMS - to subscribe send 'WC' to 1110 for only AED 10

World Cup 2010 Mobile portal: A dedicated portal at http://mobile.weyak.ae covers news on all the games, teams and players. Stay updated throughout the event with player profiles, statistics, fixtures, tables and team line-ups by subscribing to the Mobile portal; SMS ‘WC’ to 1611 for only AED 12 for the whole tournament. You can also follow your favourite team with updates via SMS for only AED 3 per week.

You can also download and enjoy various football related ringtones, wallpapers, themes and animations for this event. Browse the portal now at http://mobile.weyak.ae from your handset.

Football Greetunes: Choose from a collection of the 2010 World Cup songs available on Etisalat’s Greetune portal for your mobile phone. These include the popular tunes by Shakira, Akon (Oh Africa), Nancy Ajram (the official Arabic song) and many others. Etisalat customers can simply visit http://etisalat.ae/portal/greetune to subscribe and select from the collection.

Live events: As ‘Telecom Partners we are also bringing you the chance to come together with your family and friends in supporting your favorite team at the special live screening tents set up at The Stadium (The Walk, Dubai) and Meydan, Dubai. We have also set up HD and 3D TV demos at Etisalat outlets in malls across UAE for you to experience and enjoy watching the World Cup in high quality.

For more assistance and information on the services and activities, customers can call 101.

Etisalat launches new iPhone app

Connects iPhone device users to latest Etisalat products, services, offers and Etisalat Service Centers and payment machine locations

To enhance your ability to communicate with us we have released a new iPhone app in the UAE that can be downloaded free of charge from the Apple store.

The new application integrates convenient features to provide individuals as well as business customers in the UAE complete information on Etisalat’s latest products, services and offers in mobile, fixed line, Internet, data and entertainment.

To simplify customer experience, there is also a locator that they can use to search Etisalat Service Centers and payment machines nearby.

The app is available for you to download through iTunes, or directly from your iPhone devices through App Store, with a wi-fi connection on iPhone OS 3.1.3.

Khalifa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Etisalat said, “This introduction aims to enhance our customer service as it provides detailed information about Etisalat’s bouquet of products and services on an easy, user-friendly interface. In addition, there is a built-in locator that guides our customers to the closest business center to them, through a map or by listing down the various locations, whichever is convenient and required by the customer.”

This app will be further developed on an ongoing basis at a later stage in order to include many new services like mobile payment and so on.

The best deal for the best phone

Be part of the biggest technology company in the world and join the largest telecommunications family in the UAE.It was recently announced that Apple had overtaken Microsoft as the world’s largest technology company.

We continue to bring you even better ways to get the best technology, as a new Etisalat customer buying a prepaid or postpaid iPhone 3GS you can now take out some great special offers.

The Offers

• All new postpaid customers purchasing an iPhone 3GS (16GB or 32GB) on ANY PLAN will get TWO MONTHS FREE RENTAL.

A POTENTIAL SAVING OF UP TO AED 898 PER MONTH

• All new prepaid customers purchasing an iPhone 3GS 8GB, 16GB or 32GB will receive 500MB OF FREE DATA FOR TWO MONTHS then 500MB OF DATA THEREAFTER FOR JUST AED 99.

A POTENTIAL SAVING OF UP TO AED 376 PER MONTH

More good news

• This Prepaid plan can coexist with any other mobile data plan and you enjoy the benefits of both
• Prepaid customers can unsubscribe at any time by calling 101 and speak to the iPhone team

This offer is only valid for a limited period, so don’t miss out and call our team now!

For more information and to subscribe please call 101.

Etisalat launches 3D TV in UAE

Highlights:

• Heralds a new era of viewing TV in real life dimensions
• UAE: the 1st country in the region to provide 3D on IPTV.
• Available for eLife triple play costumers and E-Vision 2010 FIFA World Cup package subscribers for free.

Starting today, if you subscribe to triple play eLife or E-Vision you will be able to receive 3D TV without any additional fees at this stage. You can now enjoy viewing TV in high-quality 3D on your 3D enabled TV sets for a truly unmatched experience.

Initially you can enjoy watching the Al Jazeera 3D channel that currently broadcasts sport activities from around the world. As the The official broadcaster you can also watch, for the first time ever, the hugely anticipated 2010 FIFA World Cup from South Africa in wonderful 3D.

Etisalat has invested nearly 5 billion dirhams in the high data capacity and capability of fiber-optic over the last 2 years that puts customers amongst the leaders in home entertainment and advanced device users globally.

The service will be available to E-Vision customers and to all eLife triple play customers without any pre-setting, system configuration or registration. All you have to do is enjoy the 3D technology on your 3D enabled TV set!

Etisalat provides all its new customers or current subscribers upgrading to the eLife triple play Premier package (16MB) or Max package (30MB), the ability to catch the 2010 FIFA World Cup excitement on Al Jazeera sports channel, in superior 3D quality and for free. Etisalat's eLife triple play service combines Internet, fixed line and TV service in one.

In addition, customers can also opt for subscribing to 3D TV service and HD on a stand-alone basis from E-Vision.

Fantastic new eLife Triple Play service with Free 2010 FIFA World Cup Promotion

Our new bundled eLife triple play service includes three services together – landline, broadband Internet and TV, for more convenience and greater value. You can now enjoy Etisalat’s TV service on its fiber optic-based network with unlimited entertainment options, high-definition video quality and many new features, including 20 minutes of free international calls per month.
As part of this fantastic new eLife package, we have captured the upcoming football fever when you subscribe to the Premier package (16MB) or Max package (30MB), you will get free access to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, aired by Al Jazeera sport channels.

When will this be available?
It is immediately available to eLife-connected homes. If you want to subscribe to the eLife triple play benefits you can simply call 800 PROMO (77666) or visit any of Etisalat’s Business Centres and Outlets across the UAE to apply. We have facilitated the subscription process with our sales representatives bringing the eLife bundled product offering directly to residents who can sign up conveniently from the comfort of their homes.

The amazing features that come as part of eLife triple play packages include:

• Basic TV services that are offered in three language-based packages: Arabic, Asian and Western choices. You can select the first package which is already included in the Triple Play subscription, with additional packages available at a nominal rate. Premium TV is also offered for an additional fee.
• High Definition or “HD” TV channels are also available as every connection includes the latest HD-capable TV Set Top Box. You can access an impressive list of channels including, Al Jazeera Sports HD, Abu Dhabi HD, Dubai Sports HD, OSN Movies HD, Food Network HD, Outdoor Channel HD, Discovery HD, NatGeo Wild HD, ShowSports HD, Fox Sports HD, Fashion TV HD, iConcerts HD, and Luxe TV HD.
• A Personal Video Recorder or “PVR” TV Set Top box that will be available soon. Offered as an optional extra, the new box will be capable of “pausing” any live TV channel as well as rewinding and playback feature. The instant and planned recording will make TV watching more convenient for you.

To find out more about this fabulous offer please visit http://bit.ly/bqNfIh