du Achieves Impressive Q1 2026 Results with 15.5% Profit Increase

Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company PJSC, known as du, has revealed robust financial figures for the first quarter ending on 31 March 2026, showcasing notable growth amidst regional geopolitical challenges and fluctuating travel patterns.

The telecommunications firm recorded revenues of AED 4.1 billion, demonstrating a year-on-year increase of 6.9%. This growth was largely attributed to strong operations during January and February across mobile, fixed-line, and enterprise sectors. However, March experienced a dip in demand, affected by lower tourist visitation, diminished roaming activities, and more gradual subscriber additions.

du reported an EBITDA of AED 2.0 billion, marking an 11.7% increase with an all-time high EBITDA margin of 49.5%. Net profit surged by 15.5% compared to the previous year, reaching AED 0.8 billion, fueled by enhanced EBITDA and stringent cost management.

Free cash flow also saw a solid rise of 14.2%, reaching AED 1.7 billion, highlighting strong earnings and disciplined capital expenditure, which amounted to AED 386 million, reflecting a capital intensity of 9.4%.

The mobile subscriber count rose by 6.1% to 9.7 million, with postpaid subscriptions growing by 9.6% to 2.0 million. Prepaid subscriptions grew by 5.2%, bolstered by flexible value propositions. Additionally, the fixed-line customer base climbed by 6.3% to 745,000 customers, driven by the demand for home wireless and fiber services.

du pointed out the ongoing strength in enterprise connectivity and ICT services, alongside a steady evolution in its digital offerings. Although March presented transient pressure on usage patterns—particularly in roaming and prepaid activations—overall network operations sustained stability without interruptions.

Financial stability remained robust, evidenced by a strong net cash balance without any leverage on the balance sheet. In April, du also refinanced a AED 2 billion revolving credit line, extending the term to seven years under improved conditions, enhancing liquidity and financial positioning.

The telecommunications company affirmed its commitment to maintaining full-year guidance while keeping a close watch on prevailing market dynamics.