By Staff Reporter
The UAE is taking a major leap in secure digital innovation as the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) partners with Space42 to build the nation’s first space-to-ground quantum communication network. The landmark agreement, signed at the Dubai Airshow, marks a strategic step toward establishing next-generation cybersecurity infrastructure.
The collaboration will combine TII’s advanced research in quantum technologies with Space42’s satellite engineering expertise to create a Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) system capable of enabling ultra-secure communication between space and ground stations. This initiative will pave the way for future commercial deployment of quantum-secure networks across critical sectors.
As part of the partnership, the two organisations will jointly develop and test essential components, including R&D activities, quantum payload design, satellite integration, and ground-station operations. The project builds on TII’s expanding work in quantum science and supports the UAE’s broader vision of strengthening sovereign technological capabilities.
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, highlighted the agreement as a pivotal milestone in the UAE’s quantum advancement, emphasizing that it boosts national cyber resilience while positioning the country as a frontrunner in secure digital communication.
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, noted that the initiative aligns with Space42’s mission to lead in non-terrestrial network solutions by combining cutting-edge satellite systems with TII’s QKD innovations.
Beyond technological development, the partnership also aims to cultivate local expertise and reinforce the UAE’s status as a global centre for quantum-secure communication systems.
Source: Emirates News Agency
