BlackBerry launches new Mideast services

DUBAI — BlackBerry maker Research In Motion, or RIM, on Monday launched new services for the Middle East and also announced its partnership with both the telecom operators and regulator in the UAE.

The services, announced by RIM, include e-government and online banking payment for consumers in the Middle East, RIM Co-Chief Executive Officer Jim Balsillie said during a keynote speech at GITEX. Balsillie took no questions from the media and audience after his address.

The UAE dropped a threat this month to suspend BlackBerry services in the country where half a million people use this services. This year, the Canada-based company has been in dispute with a number of countries in the Gulf region and elsewhere over its encrypted email and messaging services, which they want to monitor. He did not make any references to the suspension its services or how it was resolved.

The UAE Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), RIM, and telecom operators etisalat and du, announced a new strategic partnership focused on fostering mobile innovation across the Middle East.

Balsillie said the company is pleased to be working with the TRA, etisalat and du on this important initiative to support mobile innovation across the Middle East. The partnership is also committed to bringing more localised content and applications to the BlackBerry platform in the Middle East.

This partnership will support the TRA’s mandate to encourage, promote, and develop the telecommunications and information technology industry in the UAE and across the region. It signals a long-term commitment to address the growing market opportunities for smartphones, tablets and services that serve the needs of businesses and citizens in the Middle East.

“This collaboration demonstrates the TRA’s commitment to sustain technological leadership in eGovernment through mobile services designed to better serve citizens throughout the region,” TRA Chairman Mohamad bin Ahmad Al Qamzi said.

“This partnership will provide more ways for our customers to take advantage of the benefits true mobility offers — both in business and life,” etisalat Chairman Mohammed H. Omran said.

“In today’s increasingly networked and digital world, smartphones are playing a critical role in providing consumers and enterprises an enriching experience. BlackBerry is an important and committed partner of du,” du CEO Osman Sultan said.

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