UAE-based Thuraya Telecommunications Company has announced the opening of it office in the US, offering close proximity to investors, key government and commercial customers and partners, reported Wam, the Emirates news agency.

Located between downtown Washington D.C., and Tysons Corner, Virginia, the new facility marks another step in the development of company's ongoing Futura project and next generation constellation plans, the UAE-based company said.

With roaming agreements established in 175 countries, Thuraya is an international operator providing reliable roaming services with 389 agreements worldwide, including AT&T and T-Mobile. The new office in the USA brings the American team together, helping to serve a range of customers that includes the Department of Defence, which Thuraya counts among its list of longest standing customers.

Samer Halawi, chief executive officer of Thuraya, said: "We have pledged to extend our geographical reach, move into new market sectors and launch new services and devices. Opening our US office is an important part of that process, strengthening our presence in America. We want to be as close as possible for partners, customers and investors. Thuraya will become the provider of choice for unified connectivity, and it will do so through an extensive programme of expansion and diversification."