#Abu Dhabi #UAE #Telecommunications #Etisalat

Etisalat's Record-Breaking Financial Performance in 2026

In its recent announcement, Etisalat reported remarkable financial results for the first nine months of 2026. The telecommunications giant recorded a consolidated net profit of 17.2 billion AED, marking an impressive 46% increase compared to the previous year. This performance underscores the company's strategic advancements in various high-value capabilities such as connectivity, sovereign digital infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Overview of Financial Results

For the third quarter alone, Etisalat achieved consolidated revenue of 19.5 billion AED, representing a 6.9% year-on-year increase. When looking at the first nine months of the year, total revenues rose to 57.6 billion AED, reflecting a growth of 10.0% year-over-year. The third quarter EBITDA also saw an increase of 5.1%, reaching 9.0 billion AED, with EBITDA margin standing at 46.1%.

The total subscriber count has surged significantly, reaching 254.8 million, a 29.4% increase year-over-year. Within the UAE, the subscriber base grew to 16.5 million, attributed to strong demand for advanced digital services and smart connectivity.

Key Financial Highlights

• - Q3 Revenue: 19.5 billion AED (up 6.9% YoY)
• - First 9 Months Revenue: 57.6 billion AED (up 10.0% YoY)
• - Q3 Net Profit: 11.2 billion AED (up 276.2% YoY)
• - Net Profit for 9 Months: 17.2 billion AED (up 45.9% YoY)
• - Total Subscribers: 254.8 million (up 29.4% YoY)

Strategic Initiatives and Future Plans

As Etisalat celebrates its 50th anniversary, the company has set a visionary path to redefine itself as a major telecommunications operator fueled by AI capabilities. The company’s future aims include expanding international connectivity capacity to over 500 terabits per second by 2030 and enhancing multiple routes for improved efficiency and reliability of services.

CEO Masood M. Sharif Mahmood highlighted the resilience of Etisalat's business model, emphasizing how the company converts growth opportunities into tangible outcomes. The robust performance is reflective of not only core connectivity but also intelligent execution and operational discipline.

As a response to the evolving digital landscape, the company has meticulously developed an integrated portfolio of capabilities from AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, to fintech services. Mahmood pointed out that as AI becomes integrated into critical operations of businesses and governments, the underlying infrastructure of security and connectivity will be paramount.

With these advancements, Etisalat has positioned itself as a key player in the telecommunication industry, not just offering services but also shaping the future economy through the establishment of smart platforms and infrastructure.

Conclusion

Etisalat's ability to create sustainable value through technological progress and solid strategic execution has positioned it prominently within the evolving telecommunications landscape. As the company embarks on its next fifty years, its commitment to innovation and leadership will likely redefine connectivity in the region and solidify the UAE’s pivotal role in the global digital economy.