On October 16, 2024, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and the UAE Space Agency announced a strategic partnership at GITEX Global 2024 in Dubai to establish a quantum communication infrastructure using UAE-built Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology. The announcement stated the partnership would deploy both fiber-based and space-based quantum networks.
According to TII, the agreement included the construction of a dedicated fiber link between the Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS) and TII’s Quantum Communications facility in Masdar City. A live demonstration of fiber-based quantum-secured communications was displayed at the GITEX event.
HE Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said the partnership reflected the agency’s commitment to developing secure communication technologies. Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said the initiative would integrate ground-based and satellite QKD solutions to build a quantum communication infrastructure across the UAE.