Free Wi-Fi in the UAE

Citywide Wi-Fi across major cities in the Middle East, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, could soon become a reality, a senior official at the plumber of the Internet, Cisco, has said.

There are already a few cities that are getting their residents connected to free Wi-Fi within their boundaries, and Dubai could be next in line.

“You could soon see citywide coverage of Wi-Fi as it is poised for a major growth and will set the future trend,” says Rabih Dabboussi, Managing Director, Cisco Middle East.

Speaking to Emirates 24|7, Dabboussi said Internet is poised for a major growth and will become more accessible as outdoor Wi-Fi will become more prominent compared to 3G and even 4G.

Associated Press reported last month that the city of Santa Clara in the US became the first in the country to use wireless, digital “smart meters” on homes as channels for free citywide outdoor Wi-Fi.

“This is just one of the major benefits our community will enjoy as a result of our advanced metering technology. Now our residents, visitors and local workforce can get Internet access while waiting for a train, shopping downtown, getting their car washed or relaxing in their yard,” the agency quoted John Roukema, director of Silicon Valley Power, the community’s utility provider as saying.