In a strategic move to position the country at the forefront of next-generation telecommunications, e& UAE has partnered with Khalifa University and Zayed University to establish the UAE 6G Innovation Hub. The landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during GITEX, also includes the development of the nation’s first National 5G/6G Federated Testbeds, creating a powerful platform for research, innovation, and talent development.
A Strategic Alliance For Next-Generation Connectivity
The collaboration between the UAE’s flagship telecom provider and two of its leading academic institutions aims to create a secure ‘sandbox’ environment on the network. These testbeds will allow universities, startups, and technology vendors to trial new software and applications before they are rolled out commercially. This initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to not only adopt emerging technologies but to actively contribute to the global standardisation of 6G.
Marwan Bin Shaker, Acting Chief Technology & Information Officer at e& UAE, highlighted the nation’s potential, stating, “As the world’s fastest broadband nation, the UAE is uniquely positioned to lead in the 6G era. Together, we are moving from early adoption to global co-creation, driving research, talent, and standards that will define the future of connectivity.”
Building A Collaborative 6G Ecosystem
The UAE 6G Innovation Hub is designed as a collaborative platform to bring together academia, industry leaders, startups, and international vendors. The goal is to accelerate the transition of cutting-edge research into real-world trials and deployable solutions. This academia-industry alliance is seen as crucial for shaping the future of connectivity and strengthening the UAE’s role as a global technology hub.
Prof. Bayan Sharif, Provost of Khalifa University, added, “This partnership aligns with our mission to position the UAE at the forefront of global innovation.” Similarly, Prof. Michael Allen, Acting Vice President for Zayed University, commented on the importance of creating hands-on opportunities “that will prepare the next generation to lead in the future of connectivity.”
The Four Pillars Of Collaboration
The MoU outlines cooperation across four key pillars to ensure a comprehensive approach to 6G development:
- Research & Innovation: Establishing UAE-wide 5G/6G testbeds, co-authoring research, and contributing to international 6G standards committees.
- Talent Development: Creating a pipeline of UAE talent through student involvement in research, internships, hackathons, and applied projects in fields like holographic communications and the tactile internet.
- University Advancement: Positioning Khalifa University and Zayed University as founding institutions of the national 6G hub, with plans for broader university participation.
- Executive Education: Delivering jointly developed capacity-building and upskilling programs for industry professionals and the wider ecosystem.
About e&
e& is a global technology group committed to advancing the digital future across markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Founded in Abu Dhabi over 48 years ago, e& has evolved from a telecom pioneer into a technology group with a footprint spanning 38 countries. The group is structured around five core business pillars: e& UAE, e& international, e& life, e& enterprise, and e& capital, offering a comprehensive portfolio of innovative digital services, from advanced connectivity to AI-powered solutions.
Source: Zawya
