UAE telecom provider e& has introduced an AI-powered, autonomous drone-based system for inspecting telecom towers, marking a significant advancement in telecom infrastructure management and safety. The new system combines real-time data analytics, AI, and autonomous flight technology to facilitate faster, safer, and more sustainable tower inspections across the UAE.
This launch follows the inauguration of the Drones Operations Centre, established in collaboration with the UAE Cyber Security Council and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), to promote unmanned traffic management (UTM) and integrate drones into the national digital infrastructure. The initiative is designed to strengthen national UTM systems using 5G connectivity, which enhances drone tracking, communication, and control.
Each autonomous drone is remotely managed from the Drones Operations Centre, where expert teams monitor the flights in real time to ensure safety and inspection accuracy. Unlike traditional methods, drones are capable of navigating complex environments autonomously, improving worker safety and operational efficiency.
The drones also use advanced AI analytics to identify structural anomalies during inspections, enabling a proactive maintenance approach that reduces costly disruptions and extends the life of telecom infrastructure. Additionally, the technology supports remote safety inspections and monitoring for unauthorized activity, contributing to a smarter, more secure network environment.
Marwan Bin Shakar, Acting Chief Technology & Information Officer at e& UAE, emphasized that the integration of autonomous drones enhances the company’s operational reliability, safety, and sustainability. “With AI-powered insights and real-time control, we are improving the safety and accuracy of telecom tower inspections and enabling faster, data-driven decisions to future-proof our infrastructure,” he said.
This development is aligned with the UAE’s broader goals for smart, sustainable cities, demonstrating how technology can strengthen operational resilience in the telecommunications sector.
