Abu Dhabi: The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has launched the Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS). The goal of the cutting-edge facility, which is the largest in the MENA area and the first in the Arab world, is to build secure free-space optical communications.
Abu Dhabi and the larger United Arab Emirates will be fully integrated into the worldwide Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network by the station. One of the most developed quantum communications technologies, QKD uses quantum signals to create encryption keys that are impervious to manipulation or eavesdropping, enabling private and secure communication.
Although urban QKD networks may be hosted on the present optical fiber infrastructure for less than 100 kilometers, worldwide fiber-based quantum networks are not feasible because of severe signal loss in long-distance fiber connections. Currently, the only practical approach for bridging international distances is an architecture based on free-space optical transmission between satellites and ground-based receivers.
By acting as a master station for the availability of ultra-secure key material and ensuring regional connection, the ADQOGS will future-proof secure networking in the United Arab Emirates. The statement highlights TII’s capacity to work with the international academic community by expanding on its current alliances, including the Centre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore.
The 2,363 square meter facility is part of the Al Sadeem Observatory in Al Wathba. It includes an 800mm diameter tracking telescope housed in a fully automated astronomical dome, a control room for operational management, and a sophisticated weather station for sky monitoring and scintillation calculations. In addition to these resources, a backup platform will be made available to host portable optical ground stations both domestically and internationally, encouraging industry cooperation.
Dr. Ray O Johnson, CEO of TII, said that, “The inauguration of ADQOGS goes well beyond identifying and implementing disruptive technology – it is about cultivating a hub of innovation and knowledge. Our facility epitomizes the pinnacle of quantum technology while serving as a centre of excellence for training, helping to nurture the emerging quantum technology sector in the UAE. For a relatively young entity such as ours, I am proud that we are actively shaping the future of secure data transmission on a global scale.”
ADQOGS is dedicated to accelerating commercialization opportunities in secure communication technologies and expanding their application across sectors such as telecommunications, data centers, finance, and critical infrastructure, as part of ATRC’s vision to transform Abu Dhabi’s economic landscape. The station will advance quantum secure communication infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates and close the gap between theoretical work and real-world implementations.