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Saleh Al Abdooli to oversee U.A.E.-based telco’s domestic and international operations.

Etisalat on Monday appointed Saleh Al Abdooli as its new group CEO, replacing Ahmad Julfar who resigned earlier this month.

Abdooli most recently served as chief executive of the U.A.E.-based telco’s domestic operations. Before that, he headed up Etisalat’s Egyptian business.

"Al Abdooli has over 25 years of experience in the telecommunication sector and a career dotted with major accomplishments," said Etisalat, in a statement.

As well as overseeing Etisalat’s international operations, Abdooli will continue to manage its U.A.E. unit.

Abdooli replaces Ahmad Julfar, who abruptly stepped down on 10 March, citing personal reasons.

Julfar had served as group CEO of Etisalat since 2011. He was replaced on an interim basis by chief operating officer Hatem Dowidar.

Abdooli’s appointment was confirmed a day after Etisalat announced it will pay a full-year dividend of 0.80 dirhams (€0.19) per share.

"As we prepare to enter our fifth decade as a company, Etisalat’s performance in 2015 reflects our history of solid performance and innovation," Abdooli said. "We are well-placed to deliver the advanced and innovative solutions that will be the key to generating future growth and profitability."

Etisalat’s full-year revenue increased 7% year-on-year to AED51.7 billion (€12.76 billion), AED12.7 billion of which was generated in the fourth quarter.
 

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