Nokia and du Forge Strategic Partnership for 6G Research in the UAE

Business

Nokia and du Forge Strategic Partnership for 6G Research in the UAE

Nokia and du, a leading telecom and digital services provider, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework for researching and developing 6G technology in the UAE. This partnership aligns with the UAE’s national digital transformation strategy, positioning the country as a leader in next-generation connectivity and innovation.

The agreement aims to explore 6G use cases, applications, and network innovations through dedicated teams from both organizations. The collaboration will encompass field trials, proof-of-concept demonstrations, and research initiatives focused on key enablers of 6G technology. Nokia and du seek to define and refine technical frameworks that will shape global standards, protocols, and applications for the next generation of wireless communication.

Key Areas of Research

Identification of key 6G spectrum bands and ultra-high-speed connectivity possibilities.
Development of AI-native network architectures and Network-as-a-Sensor technology.
Implementation of enhanced security, privacy measures, and sustainable network designs.
Exploration of digital twin environments and advanced human-machine interfaces.
Multi-sensory applications tailored to the UAE market.

The collaboration will be executed in multiple phases, with regular evaluations to track progress and refine priorities. The partnership is expected to deliver insights that will influence regulatory frameworks, commercial deployments, and technological advancements in 6G infrastructure.

His Excellency Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, stated, “Our collaboration with Nokia reaffirms our commitment to driving technological progress in the UAE. By investing in 6G research, we aim to accelerate digital transformation and reinforce the UAE’s position as a global innovation hub.”

Thierry E. Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research at Nokia, added, “Nokia is excited to work alongside du in shaping the future of 6G. This partnership is a significant step in our journey toward defining next-generation connectivity solutions that are secure, efficient, and scalable.”

This initiative strengthens Nokia’s and du’s shared vision of pioneering cutting-edge connectivity solutions, ensuring the UAE remains at the forefront of global 6G research and deployment.