A new partnership unveiled at the Dubai Airshow is set to fast-track the UAE’s progress in ultra-secure data transmission using advanced quantum technologies spanning both space and terrestrial systems.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research organisation under Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has joined forces with Space42, a UAE-based global SpaceTech company powered by AI, to create and roll out the nation’s first space-to-ground quantum communication network. The system will integrate satellite platforms with land-based infrastructure using sovereign Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology.
The TII-Space42 agreement, signed during the Dubai Airshow, marks a significant advancement in the UAE’s quantum communication roadmap. It lays the foundation for ultra-secure data transfer, enhances national cyber defence, and strengthens the country’s leadership in next-generation digital security across space and terrestrial environments.
Under the partnership, TII and Space42 will co-develop, trial, and deploy a satellite-enabled Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) system. This cutting-edge approach uses quantum physics to secure key exchange with exceptional resilience. Building on TII’s ongoing work in QKD, the collaboration will centre on demonstrating secure quantum links via satellite, paving the way for the future commercial rollout of quantum-secure space services.
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said: “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, remarked, “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 provides a clear structure for cooperation across research, payload development, satellite integration, and ground segment operations. It also sets out shared goals for designing, testing, validating, and demonstrating QKD technologies in orbit.
By coordinating technical planning, knowledge exchange, and joint oversight, TII and Space42 aim to accelerate sovereign innovation, nurture home-grown expertise, and cement the UAE’s status as a world leader in quantum-secure communications.