Connect 2005, Middle East's international telecom summit, successfully underway in Dubai

The summit focuses on various issues relating to the telecom industry in the region, including generating new revenue streams, refocusing strategies and exploring future growth opportunities, while also examining the growing trend towards liberalization.

Nasser bin Obood, Deputy CEO, Etisalat, said in his inaugural address: "It is said that the state of telecommunications is as good an indicator as there is of a country's general condition and direction. By this measure, we all bear a responsibility for ensuring that our countries enjoy the most up-to-date and efficient service available."

"Events like Connect 2005 provide an opportunity for all of us to learn and benefit by pooling our resources and expertise," he added.

Speaking at the event, Sam Al Kharat, Regional Manager, Cisco Systems, Middle East, said: "Internet Protocol has revolutionized the telecom industry in the region and is fast emerging as the convergent platform of choice. IP Telephony helps simplify the process of managing a converged voice and data network. As a result, it is being implemented enterprise-wide in the Middle East region. Summits like Connect 2005 enable industry professionals to gain better understanding of the possibilities of IP Telephony."

Sabine Enthammer, Executive Director, IIR Middle East, the organisers of the event, said: "Connect 2005 is the most comprehensive event of its kind in the region. The summit has witnessed an excellent response, drawing participation from industry professionals from across the GCC and elsewhere."

"The event provides telecom players in the region an excellent opportunity to exchange information and learn about emerging market trends. Further, there is considerable anticipation for the post-conference workshops," Enthammer added.

The summit features 16 operator case studies from 12 countries. In addition to the conference, the event will also feature an industry-focused exhibition. The exhibition is open to all and is designed to provide visitors with a chance to interact with top professionals and exhibitors in the telecommunications sector.

Connect 2005 is sponsored by Etisalat, Motorola, NCR Teradata, Pointsec and Al Tamimi and is supported by Mobile Entertainment Forum and Mobile2win.