Prime Highlights
- The UAE announced a landmark partnership between the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and Space42 to build the nation’s first space-to-ground quantum communication network.
- The collaboration aims to turn the UAE’s decade of investment in quantum research into operational, quantum-secure communication capabilities.
Key Facts
- TII and Space42 will co-develop and test quantum key distribution (QKD) links using satellite systems, enabling instant detection of interception attempts.
- The agreement includes R&D, payload design, satellite integration, and in-orbit testing to prepare the UAE for future commercial quantum-secure communication systems.
Background
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced a major step toward next-generation cybersecurity with a new agreement between the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and Space42. Revealed at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, the partnership will build the country’s first space-to-ground quantum communication network, using satellite systems and locally developed quantum key distribution (QKD) technology.
The UAE has invested heavily in quantum science and secure digital infrastructure over the past decade. This project builds on earlier national initiatives, including the establishment of the Advanced Technology Research Council and the rollout of long-term cybersecurity and space innovation strategies. The new collaboration aims to transform the UAE’s research progress into an operational capability.
Under the agreement, TII and Space42 will co-develop and test quantum-secure communication links from space to ground stations. These links provide very strong protection by using the behavior of quantum particles to share encryption keys. If anyone tries to intercept the keys, the system detects it right away. This makes QKD one of the safest technologies for protecting government communications, critical infrastructure, and sensitive business data.
Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said the partnership will strengthen national cyber resilience and support the UAE’s ambition to lead in secure communication technologies. Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, said that combining satellite systems with QKD will help move the technology from an idea to a real, usable capability.
The agreement includes work on research and development, payload design, satellite integration, and ground operations, along with plans for in-orbit tests. These tests will help the UAE build technical skills, train local talent, and get ready for future commercial use.
As global cyber threats become more advanced, the UAE’s early investment puts the country in a strong position as a leader in quantum-secure communication.
