A consortium of leading Abu Dhabi entities, including ADGM, ADGM Academy, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Hub71, and ASPIRE, has launched the nation’s first testbed for quantum-secure communications. The initiative marks a significant step toward future-proofing the UAE’s digital infrastructure by exploring ways to transfer ultra-secure data using quantum technology.
Key Highlights
This pioneering initiative places Abu Dhabi at the forefront of quantum technology adoption:
- First in UAE: The nation’s first testbed for quantum-secure communications.
- Key Technology: The testbed uses a proprietary Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) solution developed by TII.
- Strategic Collaboration: A partnership between ADGM, ADGM Academy, TII, Hub71, and ASPIRE.
- Live Environment: The three-node QKD network is deployed in a live commercial setting within Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
A ‘Living Lab’ for Future-Proofing Digital Infrastructure
The testbed functions as a “living lab” for highly secure, tamper-proof communications. TII, the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has deployed its proprietary QKD solution across a three-node network connecting three locations within ADGM. This network supplies encryption keys to an encrypted layer, enabling secure communication that is completely immune to retroactive attacks and future threats from quantum computers.
“This initiative marks a major step forward in our mission to translate advanced research into real-world impact,” said Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII.
Shaping the Future of Financial Market Security
For ADGM, the test network reflects a forward-looking approach to addressing cybersecurity risks. By trialing quantum-safe technology, ADGM is helping to shape the secure infrastructure needed within the financial market, especially for digital asset businesses operating within the financial center. Salem Al Darei, CEO of ADGM Authority, stated, “QKD is more than just a technical advancement; it is a foundation for building trust in tomorrow’s digital communications, including the infrastructure that underpins financial systems.”
Empowering the Broader Innovation Ecosystem
The collaboration reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s interconnected innovation ecosystem. Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said, “Supporting the development of quantum-secure communications aligns with Hub71’s mission to accelerate startup growth by promoting and providing access to advanced enabling technologies.” Mansoor Jaffar, CEO of ADGM Academy, added that the launch “is a strategic enabler that underscores our dedication to developing secure, future-ready financial systems.” Industry stakeholders interested in participating in the testbed are encouraged to register their interest.
Source: Hub71
