Huawei, SAMENA Telecommunications Host 5G-A Forum in Dubai
Huawei Middle East & Central Asia and SAMENA Telecommunications Council jointly hosted the 5G-A Leaders' Forum in Dubai. The event brought together industry experts to explore how 5G-Advanced (5G-A) and artificial intelligence (AI) are creating new value for the telecommunications sector.
The forum was held under the theme, 'Exploring 5G-A and AI Experience Monetization, Creating New Value.' It featured regulators, technology vendors, telecom operators, and ecosystem partners from across the region. Organizers reported that the event highlighted operators' unique role in using 5G-A and AI to boost growth and efficiency.
Huawei revealed that 5G-Advanced networks are now essential for supporting next-generation services. With speeds up to 10 Gbps downlink, 1 Gbps uplink, ultra-low latency, and massive capacity, 5G-A was described as a key enabler of the digital economy.
Mr. Eng. Saif Bin Ghelaita, Executive Director of Technology Development Affairs at TDRA, delivered the opening speech. He emphasized the UAE's commitment to digital transformation and the critical role of 5G-A and AI in driving innovation.
Mr. James Chen, President of Carrier Business at Huawei, stated that cloud computing, 5G-A, and AI are transforming carriers into technology companies, or 'TechCos.' He added that Huawei remains committed to providing cutting-edge solutions and supporting local tech talent.
The shift from traditional telecom to TechCo models is essential for long-term success. Mr. Alex Xu, President of Carrier Business at Huawei Middle East & Central Asia, explained how intelligent, self-evolving networks are key to 5G-A monetization and service innovation.
Huawei announced ongoing collaboration with industry partners to advance 5G-A, standalone (SA) networks, and AI. The aim is to develop a thriving ecosystem and enable operators to build experience-driven, intelligent networks.
The forum included a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Mohamed Madkour, Vice President of ICT Strategy & Marketing at Huawei. Panelists discussed the role of AI-Native 5G-A in enabling new business models.
Key participants included: Mr. Saleh Al Maimani, Omantel
Mr. Danial Mausoof, Nokia
Mr. Ali Cheema, Ericsson
Mr. David Lee, Huawei Consumer Business Group
They shared insights on commercial use cases and how AI and 5G-A support telecom innovation.
Mr. Tair Ismailov of GSMA highlighted the importance of industry collaboration and standardization for regional 5G-A rollout. Other representatives from du UAE, China Mobile International, and iFlytek shared perspectives on commercialization strategies.
Mr. Abdul Muqeet Mohammed from China Mobile International stated that 5G Advanced and IoT are transforming industries and improving lives.
Mr. Nikola Yuan from iFlytek revealed advancements in multilingual AI translation. He reported breakthroughs in Arabic dialect recognition and real-time interpretation using 5G-A networks.
The forum also highlighted efforts by SAMENA and the World Broadband Association (WBBA) to support next-generation telecom deployment. Huawei reported that the event is part of its 2025 Year-Round Middle East and Central Asia 5G-A Marketing Campaign.
In conclusion, the forum showcased the region's leadership in 5G-A and AI adoption. It also reinforced SAMENA Telecommunications Council's commitment to driving innovation in the digital economy.
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