Starlink is coming to the UAE, giving residents another way to get online, alongside existing providers such as du and e&. The satellite internet service, developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has received a 10-year licence from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
This means Starlink can now operate a satellite network in the UAE and provide broadband internet to individuals, businesses and government organisations. However, there are a few factors that make Starlink different from the internet options most UAE residents already use.
Unlike traditional home internet, which usually relies on fibre-optic cables or mobile networks, Starlink uses satellites orbiting relatively close to Earth to deliver internet. Customers need a Starlink dish installed at their location. The dish connects to satellites overhead, which then provide the internet connection.
What Do du and e& Offer?
du provides home internet through fibre connections as well as 5G wireless options. At present, its home internet packages start at around AED 229 per month, according to its website. The operator also offers faster fibre packages, with some plans advertising speeds of up to 1Gbps, alongside extras such as TV packages and Amazon Prime.
Meanwhile, e& also uses fibre for its home broadband services. Its eLife packages combine home internet with Wi-Fi equipment and depending on the plan, TV and entertainment services.
The company also offers a Neo package with speeds of up to 1Gbps for AED 399 per month, according to its website.
How Much Will Starlink Cost?
Starlink’s residential service in the UAE is priced at AED 300 per month, with unlimited data and a 30-day trial. There is also an upfront cost for the equipment. The Starlink kit starts at AED 1,465 and includes a Wi-Fi 6 router.
Customers pre-ordering the service also pay a deposit of AED 300, which is then deducted from the final cost of the Starlink equipment. Starlink advertises speeds of up to 400+ Mbps, although actual speeds can vary depending on location and other factors.
For someone already living in a home with fast fibre internet, there may not be a huge reason to switch. Traditional fibre services can offer higher advertised speeds and often bundle internet with TV and other home services.
Starlink becomes more interesting for those who live or work in remote places that don’t have easy access to fixed-line broadband. Its satellite-based connection is also useful for businesses and industries that need reliable internet away from traditional networks, including maritime, aviation, energy and logistics.
For now, Starlink gives UAE residents another internet option, rather than simply replacing du or e&. Its biggest difference is where the connection comes from. Internet travels from satellites in space rather than primarily through cables on the ground.
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