Today, we are joined by two leading experts in quantum communication technologies from the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) — Dr. James A. Grieve and Dr. Sana Amairi-Pyka. Dr. Grieve, leads the Quantum Communications Laboratory at TII, contributing to the development of cutting-edge quantum secure networks. Dr. Amairi-Pyka, a pioneer in quantum sensing and communications, spearheads the Space Quantum Communications project at TII. Together, they are shaping the future of quantum communications in the UAE and beyond.

1. Can you describe the Technology Innovation Institute’s role in developing quantum secure free-space optical communications?

As a leading player in the UAE’s nascent quantum technologies sector, TII hosts the Quantum Research Centre (QRC), the largest collection of quantum scientists and engineers in the region. Within QRC, the Quantum Communications (QComms) lab, directed by Dr James A Grieve, focuses on creating cutting-edge solutions that leverage quantum mechanics to ensure highly secure communication channels.

The team focuses on a technology called Quantum Key Distribution, or QKD for short. QKD is a protocol within secure communications, that allows users to exchange a quantum secure encryption key. Many countries are working on developing a so-called Quantum Communication Infrastructure, which enables secure networks between high-security facilities, like data centres and major civil infrastructure. Other use cases are emerging in financial institutions, government communications and healthcare facilities to name a few. These fibre-based networks support QKD through the transfer of single photons (particles of light) between devices, which can operate efficiently when network nodes are within metropolitan distances. However, for distances greater than about 100 kilometres, fibre losses make these connections impractical.

Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (AQOGS), led by Dr Sana Amairi Pyka, is the first and largest optical ground station in the region, that is able to receive single photons from LEO satellites equipped with QKD sources. Satellite-based infrastructure of this type is positioned to overcome the distance limit in secure quantum channels and will enable QKD-based networks to extend over intercontinental distances.

Through these initiatives, TII is not only contributing to the advancement of quantum-secure communication technologies but also positioning Abu Dhabi as a key player in the future of global quantum communications networks.

2. What is the purpose of the ground station that was launched by the Technology Innovation Institute and the Advanced Technology Research Council?

The Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS) is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose facility designed to establish a global network for quantum secure communications and to provide a satellite QKD node within the UAE. This station is engineered to be compatible with various QKD satellite missions, enhancing the diversification of quantum channels and enabling even more secure network designs. To this end, ADQOGS is equipped with advanced features such as multi-wavelength receivers and high-power beacon lasers, broadening its scope of applications. One of the key areas of exploration at TII involves free-space optical communications, and ADQOGS is also equipped to support high data rate coherent optical feeder links for next-generation telecommunication satellites.

Beyond its primary functions, ADQOGS supports a wide range of additional applications, including the in-orbit validation of optical communication payloads, space situational awareness, laser ranging, weather monitoring, and fundamental research in areas such as optical channel characterization and intercontinental atomic clock comparisons. These capabilities position ADQOGS as a critical asset in advancing both regional and global quantum communication and space connectivity initiatives.

3. What are some of the challenges associated with developing quantum communication technologies?

Developing quantum communication technologies presents several challenges, particularly in a rapidly advancing region like the UAE. One of the primary challenges is the need for sophisticated infrastructure, such as dedicated dark fibres ensuring secure and reliable quantum key distribution over long distances. This is on top of engineering issues connected to signal loss and environmental interference – quantum signals are fragile!

Specific to space-based architecture, quantum optical ground stations like ADQOGS also require advanced engineering and dedicated infrastructure.  Regulatory compliance and international collaboration are also crucial, as the UAE aims to position itself as a leader in both quantum and space-based communications. It is important to navigate the complexities of aligning our emerging quantum solutions with global standards, all while fostering innovation within the local tech ecosystem. Despite these challenges, the UAE’s commitment to advancing quantum technologies through strategic partnerships and investments is driving significant progress in this cutting-edge field.

4. What are the long-term implications of advancements in space-based quantum communication technologies?

Quantum free-space optical communications hold vast potential across various sectors, offering applications that range from enhancing national security to enabling advanced scientific research. These communications can provide highly secure and jam-resistant links between satellites, drones, and ground stations, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information over the long term. In the commercial sector, they can be used to establish ultra-secure data links between urban data centres, remote areas, and offshore platforms, overcoming the limitations of traditional fibre networks. As we work to grow the global development of quantum networks, we hope to see increased resilience against all future cyber threats. And of course, today’s developments support and build towards even more ambitious quantum networks, which we expect to find application in the networking of the large-scale quantum computers of the future.

5. How do the Quantum Communications Labs at TII position Abu Dhabi as a leader in the quantum communications marketplace in the region?

TII is positioning Abu Dhabi as a leader in the regional quantum communications marketplace through groundbreaking innovations and strategic advancements. The Quantum Communications (QComms) team designed and built the first region’s first entangled photon source and quantum receivers, significant developments that underscore the team’s technical expertise and pioneering spirit. The system passed a significant milestone in 2023, with a successful pilot test over a 10km long fiber link located in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City. In the coming months, the team expects to announce more deployments, solidifying its role as a key player in this cutting-edge field. Building on these accomplishments, our QComms team have been aggressive in expanding their portfolio, particularly in the development of cost-optimized QKD technologies, led by Dr Yury Kurochkin targeting the “last quantum mile”. This project aims to drive adoption by substantially reducing the overall cost of short-distance quantum communication networks.
Alongside these achievements, the ADQOGS itself stands as the first-of-its-kind optical ground station in the region, further enhancing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for advanced quantum communications. TII is open to collaborations as well as commercialisation.

6. How does the UAE Space Agency help advance TII efforts for Quantum Communication in the UAE?

The UAE Space Agency has been a key strategic partner in the ADQOGS project, demonstrating its commitment to advancing quantum technologies in the region. The UAE Space’s early and sincere engagement with the ADQOGS project played a crucial role in securing a hosting solution for the facility, as well as ensuring compliance with other relevant regulatory authorities within the UAE. Their efforts in promoting Free-Space Optical and quantum communications extend to the international stage, where they are actively working on securing further international agreements that will benefit both TII and the UAE’s broader technological aspirations.

7. Can you state some of the foreseen international collaborations for Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station?

The distinctive location and advanced technological capabilities of ADQOGS have garnered significant attention from both the space and quantum network communities worldwide. This growing interest has led to the signing of several NDAs with key potential partners, including DLR, Starion, TESAT, evolutionQ, SpeQtral, and other prominent organizations across the globe. Within the UAE, fostering national collaboration is a top priority for TII. Alongside our agreement with the UAE Space Agency, we have attracted strong interest from major communication companies and leading space research centres within the country, further solidifying our position as a driving force in space communication and quantum technology.

8. How is the global community coming together to advance quantum technologies, and what opportunities are there for professionals and researchers to engage with the latest developments in the field?

Quantum technologies are rapidly advancing, with breakthroughs in areas like quantum communication, quantum sensing, and quantum computing. These innovations are being driven by global collaborations between leading research institutions, space agencies, and industry leaders, with a strong focus on commercialisation. One of the most exciting opportunities to engage with QRC and TII is the upcoming Abu Dhabi Quantum Technology Symposium 2025. We are thrilled to invite you to join QRC as we celebrate the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), as proclaimed by the United Nations. The symposium will feature pioneers of quantum science and technologies from around the world, including the Head of the Optical and Quantum Programme Office at the European Space Agency, who will provide insights into the future of free-space secure communications. It’s an excellent platform for professionals and researchers to connect and explore cutting-edge quantum innovations. You can find more information at https://qts.tii.ae/.

Alex Cresniov, Founder of SpaceTech in Gulf

About the author: Passionate in the Space industry with significant expertise in Policy Making, Global Socio-Economic Assessments, and DeepTech Analytics.

Email: [email protected]