Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
TII and Space42 will jointly build the UAE’s first space-to-ground quantum communication network, developing a satellite-powered Quantum Key Distribution system to enable ultra-secure data exchange. The partnership accelerates national quantum innovation and strengthens the UAE’s leadership in future-ready, sovereign secure communications.
Space42 and EDGE have formed a sovereign Satcom manufacturing alliance to strengthen the UAE’s secure satellite communications ecosystem. By combining Space42’s satellite and manufacturing capabilities with EDGE’s secure communication technologies and cryptography, the partnership advances national space strategy and positions the UAE as a global leader in secure Satcom innovation.
Space42 has successfully completed the first public test flight of its ApusNeo18 HAPS aircraft in the UAE, validating stratospheric performance and preparing the platform for commercial-scale geospatial and telecom applications.
The UAE commemorates the 25th anniversary of Thuraya 1, its first satellite and the Middle East’s first telecom satellite. Launched in 2000, the mission catalyzed the UAE’s transformation into a global space leader. Over two decades, the nation has evolved from space technology importer to developer, investing Dh44 billion to build a thriving commercial ecosystem now spanning communications, Earth observation, Mars, lunar, and asteroid missions.
Space42 has signed MoUs with e& UAE and South Korea’s A2Z to strengthen the UAE’s autonomous mobility ecosystem. The partnerships will drive V2X deployment, Level-4 autonomy, and innovation hubs in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leader in intelligent and connected transportation.
e& UAE has partnered with Space42 to explore direct-to-device satellite connectivity through the Equatys joint venture with Viasat. The deal marks e& as Equatys’ first mobile partner, advancing 5G non-terrestrial network innovation, hybrid infrastructure, and secure global connectivity solutions.
Space42’s shipment of three UAE-integrated SAR satellites marks a historic step in the nation’s space manufacturing capability, advancing sovereign innovation, Earth Observation, and AI-driven geospatial intelligence.
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, has been elected Chairman of the Global Satellite Operators Association, becoming the first Emirati to hold the role. With over 20 years of experience, he brings proven leadership in satellite communications, advancing global collaboration while reinforcing the UAE’s growing influence in the space sector.
Space42 and Viasat are forming Equatys, a global D2D and 5G-ready MSS platform that unites terrestrial and satellite networks through a shared multi-tenant “space tower” model. The venture will deliver universal connectivity, support data sovereignty, and foster sustainable digital growth with commercial rollout expected in three years.
Space42 and Viasat have announced Equatys, a joint venture to provide global Direct-to-Device satellite services via a 3GPP NTN-compliant 5G platform. Using a shared multi-orbit infrastructure model, Equatys aims to deliver cost-efficient, universal connectivity to billions of smartphones and IoT devices within three years.