Dubai: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the SAMENA Telecommunications Council Leaders’ Summit 2026, held at Atlantis The Palm in Dubai, under the theme: ‘Intelligent Networks for Sovereign and Sustainable Futures.’
According to Emirates News Agency, the summit convened at a sensitive time in the region, bringing together a distinguished group of leaders and decision-makers from the telecommunications, technology, policy, and investment sectors, underscoring the importance of continued dialogue, coordination, and strengthened partnerships across the industry.
The summit was held in strategic collaboration with Huawei and under the principal patronage of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), reflecting the UAE’s continued leadership in advancing a stable, forward-looking digital ecosystem. The event witnessed broad participation, both in person and virtually, from key stakeholders across the digital landscape, reaffirming the UAE’s position as a trusted hub for industrial cooperation and strategic dialogue.
In this context, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak delivered a keynote address, congratulating the SAMENA Council on its twentieth anniversary and acknowledging its role in shaping dialogue, fostering cooperation, and advancing strategic thinking across the region. He highlighted the Council’s adaptability and commitment to regional development and global connectivity, praising its significant contributions to shaping the digital and economic landscape of the region.
Sheikh Nahyan emphasized the strategic importance of Dubai as a nexus for trade and investment flows across SAMENA markets, especially during times of heightened tensions and conflicts in the region. He highlighted the UAE’s resilience and commitment to facing challenges with strength, guided by a clear vision and wise leadership. The UAE’s dedication to peace and prosperity, both domestically and internationally, was a central theme in his address.
The summit’s theme, ‘Intelligent Networks for Sovereign and Sustainable Futures,’ was described as timely and relevant, addressing critical issues such as data centers, cybersecurity, and technology regulation. Sheikh Nahyan stressed the importance of digital sovereignty and sustainability, urging countries to retain control over their digital systems while embracing cooperation, investment, and exchange.
The summit featured strong participation from telecom operators, regulators, global technology providers, and international organizations. Discussions highlighted industry transformations, including the evolution of 5G, the integration of AI, and new connectivity models. Participants emphasized the need for sustainable revenue models and value creation through enterprise solutions and digital platforms.
Artificial intelligence was a key focus, with discussions on its real-world deployment, governance, and alignment with national priorities. The concept of ‘sovereign AI’ was introduced as a framework for balancing innovation with regulatory sovereignty. The summit also explored the transformation of telecom companies into technology-driven business models and the integration of terrestrial and satellite networks.
A high-level CEO session examined leadership roles in shaping the future of digital infrastructure, showcasing practical applications of AI like digital twins. Bocar BA., CEO and Board Member of the SAMENA Council, highlighted the summit’s role in advancing regional and international discussions on spectrum policy, AI governance, connectivity models, and digital infrastructure investment.
The summit concluded by reaffirming the SAMENA Council’s pivotal role in uniting public and private sectors, fostering partnerships, supporting innovation, and ensuring technological advancements translate into tangible economic and societal value.
