A new joint initiative revealed at the Dubai Airshow is set to propel the UAE’s capabilities in quantum-secure data transfer, uniting satellite technology with terrestrial quantum systems.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has partnered with Space42, a leading UAE-based global SpaceTech enterprise, to develop and deploy the country’s first quantum-enabled space-to-ground communication network using sovereign Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) solutions.
The newly signed TII-Space42 agreement marks an essential milestone in the UAE’s roadmap for quantum-secure communications. It lays the foundation for protected data exchange, supports national cyber readiness, and reinforces the UAE’s leadership in advanced security technologies connecting terrestrial and orbital systems.
The collaboration will see TII and Space42 co-create, evaluate, and commission a satellite-based QKD platform. This next-generation technology relies on quantum mechanics to provide unrivalled data protection. Building on TII’s progress in QKD research, the initiative will centre on demonstrating quantum-secure communication links from space and preparing for future commercial deployment.
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, commented: “This collaboration with Space42 represents an important milestone in the UAE’s quantum journey. By combining TII’s deep research expertise with Space42’s advanced satellite infrastructure, we are building the foundations of a national quantum communication network that strengthens the UAE’s cyber resilience and sovereignty. Together, we are positioning the nation at the forefront of secure communication technologies that will shape the digital economy of the future.”
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, said, “This collaboration with TII is anchored in our strategy to become the global leader in non-terrestrial network solutions. Through integrating our satellite systems with TII’s QKD technology, we can advance secure, quantum communications from concept to capability, and strengthen the nation’s leadership in next-generation data security.”
The agreement lays out a coordinated plan for work across scientific research, payload design, satellite integration programmes, and operational ground systems. It includes specific goals for the design, testing, verification, and in-orbit demonstration of QKD technologies.
Through shared oversight, technical synergy, and continuous knowledge exchange, TII and Space42 intend to accelerate sovereign innovation, foster national expertise, and establish the UAE as a global frontrunner in quantum-secure communications.
