Abu Dhabi’s E& Eyes €8 Billion Telecom Firm United Group

Emirates Telecommunications Group Co. is considering a potential acquisition of eastern European carrier United Group BV as it seeks further expansion outside its home market, according to people familiar with the matter.

E&, as the Abu Dhabi-based carrier is known, has been evaluating a possible purchase of United Group, the people said, asking not to be identified because the information is private. The company’s private equity owner BC Partners may seek a valuation of around €8 billion ($8.6 billion), the people said.