Tuesday, Aug 22, 2017

DUBAI

For several years, there have been only two brands offering mobile services in the UAE. That is all set to change at the beginning of September when Virgin Mobile officially launches across the emirates.

Whilst it is still owned by the same company as du, Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company, Virgin Mobile will operate as a separate brand, offering different price points and packages.

The new service is aimed at young people, with a level of flexibility not yet seen in the UAE. For example, Virgin Mobile allows you to build a custom plan based on what you most need, be that data, minutes or SMS.

Users will also be able to try the service and cancel at any time, according to Virgin Mobile’s new website.

When the company launched in Saudi Arabia, it was aimed at the country’s large population of young, brand-conscious people, and it appears the company will be looking to do the same here in the UAE.

SIM card delivery

As part of this drive to appeal to the UAE’s tech-savvy youth, Virgin Mobile is promising to deliver SIM cards to new users within an hour, no matter where they are. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re at the beach, in the office or at home. Simply, download our app, sign up and our team will deliver your new Virgin Mobile SIM and activate you on the spot,” the company states on its website.

Describing its contract model as flexible and simple, Virgin Mobile is set to offer customers the option to change their package from month to month depending on their usage habits, and the availability to cancel at any time.

The question of rates is unclear at the moment. However, Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company will be keen to ensure they do not too heavily undercut du’s revenues.

Whilst the service is already live, the company will be officially launched in early September.

By Ed Clowes Staff Reporter

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