• H.E. Talal Belhoul: The UAE is contributing to shaping the future of 6G and strengthening the region’s presence in the global dialogue.
• H.E. Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar: Building on our leadership in 5G, we are moving towards early preparedness for 6G.
• H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Ramsi: Artificial intelligence, spectrum, and network integration are at the heart of the future telecommunications ecosystem.

United Arab Emirates, 18^th October 2026

The United Arab Emirates will host 6G MENA 2026 – In the AI Era, the first dedicated 6G conference in the Middle East and North Africa, organized by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). Taking place in Abu Dhabi on 19 and 20 October, the conference will bring together leading figures from regulatory authorities, the technology sector, and academic and research institutions from around the world.

The conference comes at a pivotal stage in the evolution of the telecommunications sector, as preparations for 6G accelerate and artificial intelligence plays an increasingly significant role in the design, operation, and management of future networks. It also reflects ongoing international efforts to develop the standards and technical specifications for the next generation of telecommunications.

This direction builds on the UAE’s leadership in 5G and 5G-Advanced networks, as well as its achievements in coverage, performance, and technological trials, providing a strong foundation for the transition towards 6G.

H.E. Talal Belhoul, Chairman of the Board of TDRA, said: “The UAE’s leadership in adopting emerging technologies reflects a firmly established national approach based on anticipating the future, preparing early for global transformations, and turning them into opportunities for growth and progress. 6G represents a strategic milestone that goes beyond network development to reshape the future of connectivity and digital services. Accordingly, the UAE’s ambition extends beyond adopting 6G to actively contributing to shaping its direction and strengthening the region’s presence in the global dialogue on the future of telecommunications.”

The conference aims to provide a regional platform bringing together government and regulatory authorities, industry representatives, and the research and academic communities to discuss the technical and regulatory priorities of 6G, strengthen regional and international cooperation, and support the region’s readiness for the upcoming transformations in telecommunications.

H.E. Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director General of TDRA, said: “The UAE’s success in 5G has provided a strong foundation for preparing for 6G. However, our ambition goes beyond adopting the technology to helping shape its future. Through collaboration among regulatory authorities, operators, universities, and technology partners, we are working to build national readiness and strengthen the UAE’s and the region’s contributions to developing the standards, technologies, and policies that will define the next generation of telecommunications.”

The conference will bring together leading experts and specialists to discuss global trends in 6G network development and showcase the latest innovations in integrating artificial intelligence into telecommunications infrastructure. Discussions will also address the requirements of the next phase in terms of spectrum, regulatory frameworks, and technical standards, promoting knowledge exchange and supporting the development of an advanced telecommunications ecosystem equipped to meet future needs.

H.E. Eng. Mohammed Al Ramsi, Deputy Director General for the Telecommunications Sector, said: “Preparing for 6G requires early action across several interconnected areas, including developing spectrum frameworks, contributing to international standards, enhancing the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, and leveraging artificial intelligence in network design and operations. The conference provides an important opportunity to exchange expertise and coordinate regional and international efforts.”

The conference programme will focus on several strategic areas, most notably AI-native networks, the future of spectrum for 6G, preparations for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 (WRC-27), and the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, including satellite technologies and direct-to-device connectivity. Discussions will also cover the development of global standards and the security and resilience of next-generation networks.

The conference will further explore ways to strengthen the participation of countries across the region in shaping international 6G directions and standards, ensuring they reflect local market needs and future priorities. It will also promote regional coordination on spectrum-related issues and regulatory policies associated with emerging technologies.

In addition to panel discussions and keynote addresses by senior officials and experts, the conference will feature an Innovation and Demonstrations Showcase, alongside scientific posters and research presentations. These will provide participants with insights into the latest developments, research models, and future applications of 6G technologies.

The conference is expected to strengthen knowledge exchange among regulatory authorities, the telecommunications industry, and the research and academic communities, while identifying priority areas for future cooperation to support the region’s readiness for the technological and regulatory transformations associated with 6G.