Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority (ADSSSA) on Saturday announced the launch of the Abu Dhabi internet domain suffix — .abudhabi — in both English and Arabic to represent the emirate’s digital identity in the virtual world.
The agreement on the new internet domain suffix was signed by the ADSSSA, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) and Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (Etisalat). The partnership aims to standardise the suffixes used by the emirate’s government entities and to raise the nation’s global innovation index by adopting new technological steps and initiatives by applying leading ideas in the government sector.
Commenting on the launch of the new domain suffix, TRA director-general Hamad Obaid Al Mansouri said: “The launch of Abu Dhabi domain name enhances Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s distinguished position, as well as the economic activity and e-presence of registered entities in the UAE.
“We, in TRA, would like to thank ADSSSA, as well as the telecom service providers in the country for their great efforts in preparation for the digital future, which is an important pillar of post-oil sustainability, as digital knowledge is an essential resource in the national economy,” he added.
Dr Roudha Al Sa’adi, director-general of ADSSSA, said: “This agreement will contribute towards the enrichment of Abu Dhabi’s technological system, and towards reinforcing the emirate’s international status by showcasing its full potential in creative, innovative and technological fields.
“This will attract international companies and organisations and will further serve the establishment of a knowledge-based economy. We are confident that this cooperation will employ sufficient expertise to develop the country’s technological infrastructure and improve the efficiency of our government services,” he added.
Saleh Al Abdouli, chief executive officer of Etisalat, said the company’s experience in handling domain registration would help make the new domain successful.
“Our vast experience spanning over 20 years in managing domain registration gives us the confidence of managing this new strategic initiative that will play a significant role in implementing digital services across all segments. This important step will help position UAE as a leading international economic hub, meet the long-term objectives of the national agenda and growing digital requirements of the country.”
