H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan inaugurated the SAMENA Telecommunications Council Leaders’ Summit 2026 at Atlantis The Palm, held under the theme “Intelligent Networks for Sovereign and Sustainable Futures.”
The summit brought together leaders and decision-makers from telecommunications, technology, policy, and investment sectors, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue, coordination, and partnerships across the industry.
The event was held in strategic collaboration with Huawei and under the patronage of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, with participation from stakeholders across the digital ecosystem.
In his keynote address, Sheikh Nahyan said: “It gives me great pleasure to join you on this important occasion. I would like to begin by extending my warmest congratulations to the SAMENA Council on the occasion of its twentieth anniversary. Over the past two decades, the Council has played a constructive role in shaping dialogue, fostering cooperation, and advancing strategic thinking across our region.”
He added: “The theme of this summit is both timely and highly relevant. ‘Intelligent Networks for Sovereign and Sustainable Futures’ reflects the reality that our digital future is inseparable from our economic future, our security, and our humanity.”
He concluded: “Allow me to conclude by emphasizing that the future of digital sovereignty and sustainability in our region must be built on four key principles: First, resilience. Second, trust. Third, partnership. Fourth, wisdom.”
The summit saw participation from telecom operators, regulators, technology providers, and international organizations. Sessions addressed developments in 5G, artificial intelligence integration, and new connectivity models combining terrestrial and non-terrestrial systems.
Discussions also focused on the evolving operating environment for telecom operators, including increasing demand for data services, regulatory developments, and the need for sustainable business models. Participants highlighted the shift toward enterprise solutions, digital platforms, and specialized applications.
Artificial intelligence was a key focus, including its transition into practical deployment, governance considerations, and alignment with national priorities. The concept of sovereign AI was also discussed.
Additional topics included the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks, direct-to-device connectivity, spectrum policy including the upper 6 GHz band, and space sustainability.
Bocar BA, CEO and Board Member of the SAMENA Council, noted that convening the summit reflects the importance of continued coordination among stakeholders, adding that outcomes will contribute to discussions on spectrum policy, AI governance, and digital infrastructure investment.
The summit concluded by reaffirming the SAMENA Council’s role as a platform for collaboration between public and private sectors, supporting partnerships and innovation across the region.
