Q1: e& UAE’s 5G Journey and Global Recognition
e& UAE recognized the potential of 5G early on, becoming the first operator in the MENA region to launch 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) to consumers in May 2019. This innovation laid the foundation for the company’s continued leadership in mobile broadband (MBB) and fixed broadband (FBB) speeds, earning it global recognition as the fastest 5G network by Ookla for two consecutive years. In 2024, e& UAE reached a milestone by achieving the world’s fastest 5G speed of 62 Gbps, showcasing its commitment to continuous innovation. The network supports various applications such as cloud gaming, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), advanced video streaming, and the industrial Internet of Things (IoT). Additionally, e& UAE partnered with ADNOC to build the energy industry’s largest private 5G network, covering 11,000 square kilometers, with completion expected in 2025. This project is expected to generate $1.5 billion in value over the first five years.
Q2: 5G-Advanced and Monetizing New Service Opportunities
5G-Advanced is set to revolutionize connectivity, offering new opportunities across consumer, IoT, and enterprise sectors. In the consumer space, 5G-Advanced will enable ultra-high-definition streaming, interactive gaming, and immersive AR/VR experiences. e& UAE introduced its Fibre-To-The-Room (FTTR) solution, which enhances Wi-Fi coverage in large residential spaces, ensuring seamless connectivity for smart homes and gamers. For industrial applications, 5G-Advanced supports massive machine-type communications and energy-efficient IoT solutions. In the enterprise sector, the network will drive transformation in areas such as remote machinery control, smart logistics, and advanced analytics. e& UAE is collaborating with EMSTEEL to deploy 5G networks that optimize manufacturing processes and reduce operational expenses, while in the maritime sector, partnerships are driving advancements in Abu Dhabi as a global hub for maritime innovation.
Q3: 6G Evolution: Key Technologies on the Horizon
As e& UAE looks to the future, 6G will be AI-native, with intelligent and autonomous systems enabling real-time decision-making and adaptability. This next-generation technology will push beyond traditional connectivity, incorporating advanced communication and sensing capabilities. e& UAE sees 6G unlocking applications like advanced IoT, precision tracking, and immersive experiences. There will also be a strong focus on sustainability, with energy-efficient solutions and eco-friendly infrastructure to drive long-term positive change. 6G will prioritize global inclusivity by bridging the digital divide and extending connectivity to underserved areas, while ensuring robust security measures for critical applications.
Q4: e& UAE’s AI Journey and Key Use Cases
e& UAE is embracing AI to drive growth and establish itself as an AI-powered telecom leader. With over 900 AI use cases, the company is enhancing operations in customer segmentation, fraud detection, autonomous networking, and personalized experiences. AI also powers advanced technologies like facial recognition, voice biometrics, and chatbots. The company’s AI-driven solutions have reduced technical calls by 30% and technician visits by 40%. Through partnerships with AWS, e& UAE is leveraging Generative AI technologies to provide personalized recommendations and real-time tailored product suggestions. Additionally, e& UAE launched the world’s first AI-powered autonomous telecom store, EASE, which offers seamless shopping experiences and self-service checkout.
Q5: Convergence of 6G and AI: Shaping the Future
The fusion of 6G and AI will transform the telecom industry, enabling hyper-personalized, real-time interactions, and immersive experiences. AI-driven predictive analytics, powered by 6G, will allow e& UAE to proactively manage network performance, ensuring higher reliability and service quality. The combination of these technologies will drive operational autonomy, optimize efficiency, and provide industry-specific solutions across smart cities, IoT, logistics, and automated industrial processes. As 6G and AI converge, they will unlock new business opportunities and reshape the technological landscape in the UAE.
Q6: Timelines for 6G Development and Adoption
The commercial launch of 6G is expected around 2029/2030, following a progressive timeline that includes foundational research, standardization, technical trials, and early commercial rollouts. e& UAE is already investing in critical research and building the necessary ecosystem to accelerate the timeline. By focusing on essential technological elements and collaborating with global partners, the company aims to shape this roadmap, ensuring a seamless transition to 6G.
Q7: Leveraging ITU’s 6G Scenarios for Innovation and Growth
e& UAE plans to leverage the ITU’s six 6G usage scenarios, particularly the new ones like AI & Communication and Integrated Sensing & Communication, to drive innovation. AI & Communication will embed intelligence in networks, automating decision-making and optimizing resource allocation. Integrated Sensing & Communication will combine connectivity with environmental sensing, enabling smart city applications and enhanced traffic management. These new scenarios will enhance sustainability, security, and connectivity, supporting e& UAE’s strategy for a connected, resilient, and sustainable digital future.
Q8: e& UAE’s Commitment to Sustainability in 6G Development
e& UAE is actively addressing the sustainability goals outlined in the IMT-2030 framework. The company integrates energy-efficient technologies to reduce carbon emissions and contributes to the achievement of the Paris Agreement’s targets. By focusing on low-latency communication and machine-type communication, e& UAE aims to drive innovations in smart cities, connected industries, and healthcare systems. e& UAE is also committed to promoting green technologies, open standards, and interoperability, ensuring the development of sustainable and inclusive solutions for the UAE and beyond.
e& UAE’s 6G Vision
e& UAE’s 6G vision is centered around AI/ML integration, investment protection, enhanced voice services, and sustainable solutions. The company is committed to developing practical communication and sensing technologies, exploring THz technology for genuine use cases, and embedding edge computing for real-time data processing. Through its commitment to sustainability, privacy, and security, e& UAE is positioning itself as a leader in the development of 6G, with a focus on creating a connected, intelligent, and inclusive digital future for the UAE and the world.
