United Arab Emirates 11^th Nov 2025

The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has announced the launch of the 6th Generation (6G) Initiative in the United Arab Emirates. The announcement was made during the inaugural meeting of the 6G Committee, hosted by TDRA with the participation of key partners from federal and local government entities, telecommunications service providers, universities, research and development centers, and leading global mobile technology providers.

The meeting was opened by H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Ramsi, Deputy Director General of the Telecommunications Sector at TDRA, who emphasized that the launch of the 6G initiative through the establishment of the 6G Committee aligns with the UAE’s vision of leading the future of communications and information technology. He highlighted the country’s proactive approach in anticipating global technological shifts and fostering a national environment that encourages innovation and scientific research in advanced telecommunications.

H.E. Al Ramsi stated: “In 2015, we began our preparations for the 5G journey, which culminated in its commercial launch in 2019—making the UAE the first country in the region to achieve this milestone. Today, we celebrate coverage exceeding 99.5% of populated areas, with more than 23,000 5G sites serving over 10 million subscribers. These achievements pave the way for a new phase in which we work with our partners to develop a national 6G roadmap that will revolutionize connectivity by integrating digital and cognitive worlds, leveraging artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and satellite networks to enable the applications of the future. At TDRA, we believe that the shift toward 6G technologies is not merely a technical evolution, but a strategic step toward building a sustainable knowledge-based economy founded on innovation, artificial intelligence, and the integration of digital infrastructure across all sectors. We are building on a legacy of innovation and achievement, striving together toward a hyper-connected smart society that fosters innovation and national prosperity.”

Through this initiative, the committee aims to develop a comprehensive national 6G ecosystem by strengthening collaboration among national partners, establishing research and innovation programs in future communications through universities and research centers, accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies in key sectors, and supporting the development of international 6G standards and specifications. Additionally, the initiative seeks to establish a robust regulatory framework and integrated spectrum management approach to meet the requirements of the next technological era.

In this context, two specialized subcommittees have been formed to support the main committee’s objectives. Dr. Marwan Dabbah from Khalifa University chairs the Research and Development Working Group, while Dr. Khaled Al Awadhi from TDRA leads the Integration and Strategic Partnerships Working Group.

Commenting on this milestone, Dr. Al Awadhi said: “This step reflects TDRA’s commitment to adopting a proactive approach in shaping the next generation of communications and strengthening the UAE’s position as a global hub for developing and implementing future technologies.”