Space42 Partners with e& UAE to Advance Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity

At the prestigious GITEX Global 2025 event in Dubai, UAE, Space42—a leading satellite technology firm—unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with e& UAE to push the boundaries of direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), this collaboration aims to leverage Space42’s Equatys joint venture with Viasat, setting new benchmarks for 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and expanding seamless global coverage.

Enhancing Satellite Connectivity Through Equatys

The Equatys joint venture, formed last month by Space42 and Viasat, is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing D2D connectivity. Compliant with 3GPP NTN standards for 5G technology, Equatys utilizes 100 MHz of harmonized Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) spectrum, which has already been allocated across more than 180 global markets. This ensures robust and wide-reaching satellite service capabilities for both IoT devices and smartphones.

Through the newly inked MoU, Space42 and e& UAE will align their efforts on D2D connectivity across four key domains: technical, commercial, regulatory, and strategic. This partnership will involve collaboration on terrestrial and satellite network infrastructure integration, driving innovation through joint labs, pilot programs, and the development of hybrid 5G NTN capabilities. The duo aims to deliver connectivity that addresses the needs of consumers in remote and hard-to-reach areas, such as deserts, mountainous regions, and offshore environments.

A New Era for e& UAE in Satellite Communications

By joining Equatys, e& UAE has become the first mobile operator to pioneer direct-to-device satellite accessibility under this venture. Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration, highlighting that D2D over 5G NTN seamlessly complements the company’s roadmap for 3GPP-based network evolution. This partnership underscores e& UAE’s commitment to hybrid connectivity solutions, ensuring widespread coverage and optimal service delivery on a larger scale.

In addition to technological advancements, the alliance will focus on critical regulatory aspects such as spectrum allocation, licensing, and compliance with data privacy standards to meet both regional and global requirements. Moreover, the partnership aims to create a joint product roadmap and investment frameworks to lay the groundwork for future network upgrades and innovation.

A Step Forward for Global Hybrid Connectivity

This collaboration between Space42 and e& UAE signals a transformative step for mobile and satellite network industries, promising significant enhancements in bridging connectivity gaps worldwide. With the integration of terrestrial and satellite systems, coupled with innovation-focused R&D, both companies are poised to redefine how networks operate in the coming era of 5G NTNs and beyond.

The Equatys venture represents a clear vision for the future, where mobile and satellite infrastructure work in unison to create a seamless global ecosystem. As demand for reliable connectivity surges, particularly in underserved regions, partnerships like these will be instrumental in shaping the digital societies of tomorrow.