Initiative to Develop and Motivate the Creativity of UAE Nationals

Dubai: 13 September, 2006 In line with its commitment to encourage the creative talent of UAE nationals, du - the UAE's new telecommunications operator today announced a three-year corporate sponsorship of Freej, the first 3D animated series in the Middle East.

Conceptualised and created by UAE national Mohammed Saeed Harib, the much anticipated series will premiere on Dubai TV and Sama Dubai on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.

Announcing the sponsorship, Ahmad Bin Byat, Chairman, du said: We are keen on investing in national talent that sets pioneering benchmarks. Mohammed Harib's unique approach of bringing international standards of animation to the region through the first locally produced series of its kind is in line with this commitment.

dus sponsorship of Freej not only represents our ongoing commitment to technological advancement, it also underscores our dedication to sharing Arab heritage and culture with the youth of this region.

Commenting on the long term commitment between du and Freej, Osman Sultan, CEO, du said: As an innovative telecommunications service provider offering the option of choice, du can truly identify with Freej. Both have generated huge anticipation ahead of release and promise enjoyable experiences that will impact the lives of end users.

We look forward to collaborating with Mohammed on this unique project that brings animation to life. We also aim to support it as it grows beyond the series.

Freej, meaning neighbourhood' in the Khaleeji dialect, will tell the tale of four old ladies living in a small traditional neighbourhood on the outskirts of Dubai. The show, tailored for the whole family, will cover subjects relevant to all age groups.

Mohammed Saeed Harib, Managing Director, Lammtara Pictures and Director of Freej, said: Venturing into uncharted territory is always a daunting prospect. However, the unstinting support and encouragement of a company like du, which is also breaking new ground in the country, gives a tremendous boost to our innovative project. dus sponsorship will encourage national talent to dream bigger in the knowledge that they can become a reality."

The first season of Freej will air 15 episodes during Ramadan, and feature more than 15 popular Arabic media personalities. The episodes will be rerun in the latter half of Ramadan.

-Ends-

About du
du, is the new telecommunications company in the UAE. It is 40 percent owned by the UAE Federal Government, 20 percent by Mubadala Development Company, 20% by TECOM Investments and 20% by public shareholders. It is listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and trades under the name du.

du currently provides fixed line, internet and pay TV services in some of the free zones of Dubai, following its purchase of TECOM Investments telecom assets.

www.du.ae

For further information, please call:
Dalia El-Farra
JiWiN
The Public Relations arm of Dubai Press Club
Tel:+9714 361 6 666
Fax:+9714 388 8 001
e-mail: dalia.elfarra@jiwin.ae 

Majid Wasi
Account Manager
Tel: + 971 4 3613882
Email: majid.wasi@jiwin.ae

Press Release 2006