e&, Space42 Partner to Boost 5G with Hybrid Satellite-Terrestrial Tech
▼ Summary
– e& UAE and Space42 signed an MoU at GITEX GLOBAL 2025 to collaborate on Direct-to-Device connectivity using the Equatys venture.
– Equatys, a partnership between Space42 and Viasat, aims to provide seamless 5.5G connectivity via satellite and terrestrial networks using a 3GPP Release 17+ NTN framework.
– The collaboration will focus on technical integration, regulatory cooperation, research and development, and strategic initiatives to enhance network capabilities.
– This partnership supports universal connectivity by enabling standard smartphones and IoT devices to connect directly to satellites across over 180 markets.
– Equatys operates as a shared “space tower” company, using a multi-tenant model to reduce costs and serve D2D, IoT, and Mobile Satellite Services segments.
e& UAE has become the first mobile network operator to explore Equatys, a groundbreaking direct-to-device initiative poised to reshape global connectivity infrastructure. This strategic move was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Space42 at GITEX GLOBAL 2025, marking a significant step in advancing hybrid satellite-terrestrial connectivity for 5G services.
Space42, a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech firm with international operations, has entered into this agreement with e& UAE, the flagship telecommunications division of the global technology group e&. The collaboration will focus on Direct-to-Device connectivity, leveraging the Equatys venture, a partnership between Space42 and Viasat designed to deliver seamless 5.5G connectivity by integrating satellite and terrestrial networks. This initiative supports the shared goal of both companies to extend D2D connectivity beyond conventional infrastructure, reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in cutting-edge digital and space-enabled communications.
Launched in September 2025, Equatys aims to eliminate connectivity gaps using a 3GPP Release 17+ Non-Terrestrial Network framework. With access to more than 100 MHz of harmonized global Mobile Satellite Services spectrum, the system will allow standard smartphones and Internet of Things devices to connect directly to satellites, providing uninterrupted 5.5G access across over 180 international markets.
The scope of collaboration between e& and Space42 spans multiple domains:
Technical Integration involves aligning network infrastructure to enable smooth transitions between terrestrial and satellite systems. The partners will establish performance benchmarks for latency, bandwidth, and reliability, while jointly advancing new 5G NTN capabilities.
Regulatory and Security Cooperation will see both entities coordinating on licensing, spectrum allocation, and data privacy measures to comply with regional and international standards.
Research and Development efforts will include joint innovation labs and pilot programs. These initiatives will test emerging technologies, conduct field trials, and evaluate interoperability with current 4G and 5.5G networks.
Strategic Initiatives and Future Growth will focus on creating joint product roadmaps and infrastructure investment programs within e&’s extensive operational footprint, supporting the global scaling of Equatys.
Equatys is set to empower e& UAE with an enhanced user experience, strengthening its market position as a leading technology provider.
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, remarked, “Equatys embodies the future of worldwide connectivity, where space and terrestrial networks function as a unified system. Partnering with e& as the inaugural Mobile Network Operator for Equatys represents a major milestone toward achieving universal connectivity, ensuring users and devices remain connected anywhere on the planet. This alliance not only cements Space42’s status as a global NTN leader but also solidifies the UAE’s reputation as a center for next-generation, sustainable communications.”
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, added, “Direct-to-device connectivity via 5G NTN is a logical evolution of our network strategy. By exploring Equatys alongside Space42 and Viasat, we are validating seamless handovers between terrestrial 5G and satellite networks using standard smartphones and IoT devices. Our emphasis remains on delivering a consistent user experience, strong security, power efficiency, and performance tailored for challenging environments such as deserts, mountains, and offshore locations. This work aligns with our 3GPP-based network evolution strategy and positions e& UAE to introduce hybrid connectivity to customers on a large scale.”
Equatys introduces a new model for universal connectivity by functioning as a shared “space tower” company. It adopts a multi-tenant TowerCo approach that minimizes redundant capital expenditures while offering cost-efficient capacity to multiple operators. Its scalable, infrastructure-grade network will serve three key segments: D2D, IoT, and MSS.
By integrating this scalable infrastructure with e&’s global presence and customer base, Equatys will transition from concept to commercial reality, transforming universal connectivity into a shared opportunity for growth.
Furthermore, the partnership will establish a unified service and technology roadmap between Space42 and e&, positioning e& as the lead Mobile Network Operator for Equatys’ D2D offerings. Together, the companies are committed to delivering a new era of hybrid connectivity that supports digital economies, enterprise innovation, and inclusive development.
(Source: Economy Middle East)