Nairobi, November 3, 2025 — A new high-capacity undersea data cable has officially connected Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a milestone in digital infrastructure development and strengthening economic and technological ties between East Africa and the Gulf region.
The project, developed jointly by du, the UAE-based telecommunications company, and PEACE Cable International Network, forms part of the wider PEACE Cable System — a multi-continent network linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. The UAE–Kenya segment establishes the first direct digital corridor between the two regions, enabling faster data transmission, lower latency, and greater redundancy for both consumers and enterprises.
Industry experts say the connection will reduce reliance on European routing paths, enhance network resilience, and open new opportunities for digital trade, AI innovation, and cloud computing across the Indian Ocean corridor.
Strengthening Global Digital Hubs
Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer at du, said the launch represents a pivotal step in expanding the UAE’s position as a global data hub and advancing its AI and cloud ambitions.
“The launch of the UAE–Kenya segment extends our international network reach and reinforces the UAE’s growing role in the global data ecosystem,” he noted. “This is a vital step in enabling cross-border digital collaboration, AI innovation, and advanced data services between the Middle East and Africa.”
Xiaohua Sun, CEO of PEACE Cable, added that the project exemplifies the company’s mission to “connect continents through next-generation digital links,” emphasizing that the direct connection improves access, cuts latency, and drives digital inclusion across both regions.
Enabling Trade, AI, and Cloud Growth
The new subsea link will play a strategic role in supporting hyperscale data centers, AI applications, and cloud-driven businesses that depend on fast, reliable bandwidth. It also aligns with the UAE’s national digital economy strategy, which focuses on knowledge-based growth and smart infrastructure, while reinforcing Kenya’s role as East Africa’s innovation hub.
By creating a direct digital bridge between Africa and the Middle East, the UAE–Kenya subsea cable strengthens intercontinental connectivity, promotes digital and economic integration, and positions both nations as key enablers of the global data economy.
