du and Khalifa University Launch Region's First AI-Native 6G Blueprint
DUBAI — du has published its first whitepaper, titled The Intelligence Network: A 6G Blueprint for Telcos, detailing a strategic roadmap for artificial intelligence-native, autonomous, and monetizable telecommunications infrastructure. Developed by du Infra in collaboration with the Digital Future Institute at Khalifa University, the framework outlines how operators can evolve from traditional connectivity providers into advanced intelligence infrastructure enablers.
The publication follows successful upper 6 GHz field trials conducted by du on live macro infrastructure in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi. These regional-first trials validated upper-mid-band spectrum performance at scale, achieving peak downlink speeds approaching 1.5 Gbps and outdoor coverage of up to 500 meters using existing site infrastructure.
"Advancing next-generation technologies requires deep collaboration between academia and industry," H.E. Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said in a statement. "By combining scientific expertise with real-world deployment, we are not only contributing to the evolution of AI-native 6G networks but also reinforcing the UAE's position as a global hub for innovation, advanced technologies and knowledge-driven economic growth."
"The next decade of telecom will be defined by how much intelligence they can deliver," Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, added in a statement. "Our upper 6 GHz field results show that this future is not theoretical. It is being built today, on our existing network, and positions du to lead the region's transition toward AI-native, autonomous telecom infrastructure."
Highlighting GSMA projections that mobile data traffic will more than triple by 2030 against modest revenue growth, the blueprint positions 6G as software-defined platforms capable of real-time sensing, predicting, and decision-making. Core technical enablers identified include intent-based orchestration, Network Digital Twins, and Telecom World Models, which will transform the Radio Access Network (RAN) into an energy-efficient, sensing-enabled intelligence hub.
The whitepaper also outlines how AI-native networks will unlock new enterprise revenue streams through AI-powered operations, digital twins, autonomous AI agents, and outcome-based service guarantees. The strategic roadmap directly builds on du's foundational commitments under the TM Forum Autonomous Networks Manifesto.
