e& UAE has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UAE-based satellite operator Space42 to explore direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity through Equatys, a joint venture between Space42 and US-based Viasat. The announcement was made during GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai.
Equatys, formed in September 2025, aims to deliver D2D satellite services for smartphones and IoT devices aligned with 3GPP 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) standards. The platform will leverage 100 MHz of harmonized Mobile Satellite Spectrum (MSS) across more than 180 countries, offering sovereign, secure, and globally scalable connectivity solutions.
Under the MoU, e& UAE and Space42 will collaborate on technical integration, R&D, regulatory compliance, and strategic initiatives, including shared infrastructure development, joint innovation labs, and pilot programs. The partnership will also address spectrum allocation, licensing, and data privacy frameworks that meet regional and global standards.
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, emphasized that D2D over 5G NTN is a natural extension of the company’s network evolution strategy. “This work complements our 3GPP-based roadmap and positions e& UAE to bring hybrid connectivity to customers at scale, particularly across deserts, mountains, and offshore environments,” he said.
The agreement makes e& UAE the first mobile operator to join Equatys, underscoring the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in space-based 5G connectivity and integrated satellite-terrestrial networks.
