[Satellite TODAY 01-03-12] UAE telecoms operator Etisalat has entered into an agreement to establish uplink services on YahLive’s Y1A satellite for HD broadcasts across the Middle East and North Africa, the companies confirmed Jan. 3.

   Y1A will transmit Emirati state channels in HD from its 52.5 degrees East orbital slot. The agreement is the latest development in YahLive’s effort to expand its presence in the UAE. YahSat was established as a joint venture between the UAE’s Mubdala Development Co. and global satellite operator SES. YahLive established a similar uplink partnership with Etisalat’s rival Du in November. The company also announced it would carry HD TV channels for MBC and Saudi Sports in December.

   “The national channels in HD are the key attracting element to our satellite, so it was extremely important that we could offer an uplink service, in addition to other channels based in UAE,” YahLive CEO Mohamed Youssif said in a statement. “This partnership with Etisalat comes within our mandate to enhance our offerings and our outstanding TV broadcasting services. We are delighted that Etisalat has joined forces with us to extend the audience reach of its HD channels.”