The UAE internet users experienced various disruptions this weekend after the damage to two major subsea cables in the Red Sea. So, it highlights the vulnerability of the global digital infrastructure.
According to the global observatory NetBlocks, the SEA-ME-WE 4 (SMW4) and IMEWE cables were cut near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Therefore, it disrupts traffic across the Gulf, India, Pakistan, and parts of Africa.
Moreover, the Red Sea corridor conducts about 17 percent of the internet traffic of the world. Hence, it is one of the most important checkpoints for global connectivity.
UAE Residents Report Frustrations
Users of the Etisalat by e& and du flooded platforms like Downdetector with complaints on Saturday evening, which peaks around 9 pm. Moreover, residents across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates reported difficulties loading websites, streaming videos, and using messaging apps.
Muhammad Yusuf, a Dubai resident, said, “The Internet is stuttering, and gaming is not possible. YouTube videos don’t run smoothly.” Another user said on X, “What is happening with the internet today!? It’s extremely slow across Dubai.”
Both operators confirmed service slowdown but stopped short of confirming the cause.
Business and Cloud Services Hit
The slowdown has extended beyond households. However, Microsoft Azure reported increased latency on routes between Asia and Europe. Moreover, the company warned that real-time applications, like financial services and aviation, could experience disruption.
In a statement, Microsoft said, “Undersea fibre cuts can take time to repair; we will continuously monitor and rebalance routing to reduce the customer impact.”
Complex Repairs Ahead
It could be complicated to repair the subsea cables because this process could cost up to $3 million and take weeks or even months, as per the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC). In addition, specialized ships and crews are needed to detect, recover, splice, and relay damaged sections. Plus, weather, shipping activity, and regional instability might all delay progress.
Past cases highlight the risks because Houthi rebel attacks indirectly broke three cables in 2023. So, it causes weeks of connectivity issues. Therefore, experts warn that the busy shipping lanes of the Red Sea and geopolitical tensions make the corridor highly vulnerable to accidental and deliberate damage.
Why Does the UAE Internet Outrage Matter?
Disruptions highlight the urgent need for diversified routes and satellite backup due to the undersea cables carry over 97% of the internet traffic of the world. However, analysts say the UAE and regional economies must empower digital resilience to protect from future outrage.
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