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Internet hotspots in the UAE

Starting Monday, Internet users will have reasonably priced options to pay for their wireless broadband access from select public locations, or hotspots, marked with iZone branding. The iZone service which was being tested at select locations till now is currently available in convention centres, airports, major hotels and coffee shops across the UAE. Customers need only a wireless enabled laptop or PDA to gain access to a high-speed Internet connection in these public venues without the hassle of connecting any cables or wires. Dial-Up Internet subscribers can use their existing username password to log on to the service. Al Shamil broadband customers can also use the username and password of their dial-up account for accessing the service. The charges will be billed to their respective accounts.

The multiple payment options available to users for their convenience include Etisalat Prepaid Cards and special branded and co-branded iZone cards at the iZone venue in denominations of 1 hour, 3 hours, 12 hours and 24 hours. Users can also use their credit cards to purchase usage time online. Visitors to the UAE can also use their Internet roaming credentials to access Internet at iZones. GSM customers also have the option of getting the usage fees charged to their number. Users can subscribe to the iZone service itself which will involve a monthly rental for a given number of hours each month. Abdulla Hashim, Senior Manager of eCompany, said: "The widespread availability of the iZone service reflects our mission to provide high-speed Internet access to users throughout the UAE. eCompany is using a creative array of approaches, partnerships and resources to make the promise of the worldwide web available to all kinds of customers - people on the go, students and families, anyone who wants the connectivity and convenience that iZone offers. We expect this service to be a magnet for business executives and professional people on the move."

The iZone service will present Internet users with a great opportunity to experience the convenience and freedom associated with the wireless broadband Internet. It will also offer existing users of Dial-Up, Al Shamil broadband Internet for homes and Business One broadband Internet for Small and Medium-sized Enterprise the added convenience of mobility for their communication needs. Convenience and increased productivity are attracting users to wireless hotspots around the world. Users can access e-mail, get sports news, chat, access business news updates even when they are away from home or office while relaxing with their favourite coffee. For assistance and clarifications on the iZone service, customers can call the eCompany helpdesk 24/7 at 800-6-100 or visit www.izone.ae.

• UAE