TII & UAE Space Agency Launch Unhackable Quantum Tech at GITEX 2024

The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), a key research entity under Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE Space Agency (UAE SA). Announced during GITEX Global 2024, the partnership aims to build a robust quantum communication infrastructure utilizing UAE-developed Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies.

Elevating the UAE into a Quantum Elite

This ambitious initiative propels the UAE into an exclusive group of nations pioneering unhackable quantum communication systems. By employing both fibre-based and satellite-enabled quantum networks, the QKD infrastructure will fortify national security with a defence-in-depth strategy, ensuring highly secure communication across multiple layers.

Key Role of the Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station

At the heart of this effort is TII’s Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS). As the first of its kind in the Arab world and the largest in the MENA region, ADQOGS enables secure free-space optical communication and integrates the UAE into a global quantum-secure network. A significant component of the agreement includes establishing a dedicated fibre link between ADQOGS and TII’s Quantum Communications facility in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi.

Quantum Communication Live at GITEX Global 2024

Visitors at GITEX Global 2024 in Dubai can witness a live demonstration of fibre-based quantum-secured communications using TII’s QKD technology. This demonstration showcases the practical application and effectiveness of QKD for secure data transmission.

Understanding Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

QKD represents the cutting edge of secure communication. This technology transmits encryption keys via photons, or particles of light, leveraging quantum physics principles to ensure that the keys cannot be intercepted or tampered with. This makes QKD networks almost impossible to hack.

Combining Fiber-Optic and Satellite QKD Solutions

While fibre-optic cables are effective for transmitting data securely over short distances, satellite-based QKD solutions are necessary for long-range and international communication. Stations like ADQOGS will act as crucial nodes, supporting space-based connections and allowing the UAE to link with a global network of quantum-secure communication systems.

HE Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said: “At the UAE Space Agency, we recognize the critical importance of developing secure communication technologies and harnessing cutting-edge advancements, such as quantum communications. This technology is pivotal in safeguarding data transfer between satellites and terrestrial command centres. Our strategic partnership with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) reflects our commitment to driving innovation in this vital sector, ensuring a more sustainable, secure, and future-proof space communication system.”

“This collaboration will not only enhance our capabilities in quantum space communications but also support our broader efforts to build a knowledge-driven, innovation-based economy. It strengthens the UAE’s position as a global hub for advanced space technology, research, and development, in line with the leadership’s vision for comprehensive development over the next fifty years,” added HE Al Qubaisi.

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said: "I am immensely proud that TII is at the forefront of a transformative partnership with the UAE Space Agency, driving the strategic vision of the UAE's Space Science and Technology Policy. By integrating both ground-based and satellite QKD solutions, we are not just advancing quantum communications—we are cementing the UAE's position as one of the few nations globally pioneering a holistic, unhackable quantum communication infrastructure.”

Dr. James Grieve, Senior Director at the Quantum Research Center at TII, stated: “The integration of fibre-based and satellite Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) solutions marks a critical advancement in secure communications. At TII, we are focused on pushing the boundaries of quantum technology, ensuring that the UAE remains at the cutting edge of encryption techniques that are impervious to hacking or interception."

With the combined efforts of TII and the UAE Space Agency, the UAE is positioning itself at the forefront of quantum communication technology. The live QKD demonstrations at GITEX underline the country’s commitment to building advanced, unhackable communication networks, reinforcing national security and contributing to the global quantum-secure infrastructure.