Visitors stepping into Gitex Global this year aren’t just witnessing the future — they’re experiencing it firsthand. Inside e&’s futuristic pavilion, robots greet guests, holograms hold conversations, and intelligent systems anticipate human needs, offering a vivid glimpse of how the UAE’s technology ambitions are reshaping industries and daily life.
“This year is about what we can do more with technology; it’s about moving from responsible capability to transformative impact,” said Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO of e&, speaking to Khaleej Times.
Robotics Take Center Stage
Among the highlights is a humanoid robot that updates itself with real-time product and network information to engage visitors like a human representative. Nearby, industrial robotic arms inspired by an elephant’s trunk showcase both strength and precision, hinting at applications across manufacturing and logistics.
Other innovations demonstrate technology’s human side. A robotic prosthetic limb designed for affordability restores mobility to people of determination, while telehealth-enabled rehabilitation systems enable doctors to deliver neurological care remotely. e&’s upgraded 5.5G networks power these advancements, ensuring speed and security.
Beyond 5.5G: Networks That Sense the World
Looking ahead, e& is previewing what comes after 5.5G — networks capable of sensing their surroundings. The XG ISAC prototype highlights systems that map movement, analyze traffic, and enhance security in real time. “Networks that don’t just connect devices but understand context — that’s where we’re heading,” Dowidar explained.
Live demonstrations include a robotic “dog” operated via 5G-A with near-zero latency, and a 200G PON dashboard showcasing next-generation fiber speeds. Private 5G solutions for industries underscore e&’s focus on dedicated, high-performance networks for enterprises.
From Roads to the Skies
Building on its success with ultra-fast EV chargers, including the ABB Terra 360 unveiled last year, e& now turns its attention skyward. The AirCab — an autonomous air taxi concept — uses e&’s low-latency 5G-A networks to enable safe, real-time air mobility across cities. “The technology is ready, and the infrastructure is being built,” Dowidar noted.
Human-Centered Innovation
Amid the advanced systems, e& emphasizes humanized technology. AI avatars assist visitors in managing finances, voice-based assistants recommend entertainment, and healthcare demos highlight AI’s compassionate potential — from emergency triage to cognitive health monitoring.
At the core of the exhibit is the UAE’s first sovereign AI infrastructure — a secure national system ensuring data sovereignty and ethical innovation. “It’s about ensuring the UAE controls its own technological destiny,” said Dowidar.
Industrial and Government Solutions
Beyond consumer applications, e& demonstrates its impact across sectors. In collaboration with ADNOC, NMDC Energy, and EMSTEEL, the company is showcasing 5G-enabled safety wearables, autonomous inspection robots, and connected manufacturing tools. A 5G Mobile Command Vehicle and drone platforms extend secure communication capabilities to first responders and public safety operations.
As Gitex Global 2025 unfolds, e&’s showcase underscores a clear message — technology is no longer just about innovation; it’s about inclusion, resilience, and shaping a smarter, more connected future.
