The Power of 5G: Transforming Aviation, Ports & Logistics Across the UAE

What powers a nation built on connectivity and ambition? How do airports become smarter, ports move faster, and operations stay resilient?

In today’s fast-paced global economy, Connectivity is no longer a luxury; it’s a foundational element of competitiveness. In the UAE, where innovation and infrastructure converge, 5G is emerging as a powerful enabler across critical sectors like aviation, ports, and logistics. This article explores how ultra-fast, low-latency 5G networks drive a new era of efficiency, safety, and innovation.

Börje Ekholm, CEO of Ericsson

“5G isn’t just about speed, it’s about reimagining how industries think, move, and connect.”

Why 5G is Critical for Aviation, Ports and Logistics

Airports and ports are high-pressure environments where every second counts. With so many interconnected operations running simultaneously, such as security, loading and unloading, logistics, and passenger services, reliable, real-time data exchange is essential. This is precisely where 5G excels.

Thanks to its ultra-low latency and massive bandwidth, 5G supports real-time video surveillance powered by AI, predictive maintenance of ground equipment, seamless coordination between aircraft and gate operations, and even the remote operation of autonomous vehicles and tarmac systems. These capabilities are already in motion across innovative airport ecosystems.

To visualize how these concepts come together in the UAE, the following short video captures highlights from Dubai’s Airport Show 2025, demonstrating smart check-in, biometric screening, and digital runway control powered by technologies like 5G.

e& UAE at the Forefront of 5G - Telecom Review talks with Khaled Al Suwaidi SVP of Core Network and Platform at e&

What the Numbers Say

The impact of 5G is already evident in real-world settings. At airports, perimeter breaches that once required manual patrols are now detected instantly via connected cameras. Aircraft turnaround times have dropped because maintenance crews receive real-time diagnostics when an aircraft touches down. Even passenger movement is smoother, queues are managed dynamically with data from smart sensors and AR-enhanced assistance.

Ports are seeing equal transformation. Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and cranes operate precisely, reducing human error and improving safety. Cargo tracking is more accurate, enabling better berth allocation and faster movement of goods. Environmental monitoring is also enhanced with 5G-connected sensors detecting pollution and noise levels, helping ports meet regulatory standards.

Frank Wilde, VP, Global Center of Excellence, SAP

“5G isn’t just faster connectivity—it’s decision-making at the speed of relevance.”

Leading the Charge: UAE’s National Momentum

Globally, 5G in maritime and logistics is showing strong ROI. A Mediterranean fleet study showed 80–90% corridor coverage using 5G ship-to-ship relays, reducing satellite dependency and slashing costs by 40%.

In the UAE, e& is paving the way. It launched MENA’s first commercial 5G network slicing service and has partnered with ZTE to deliver private 5G solutions capable of being deployed in under an hour. The partnership has already led to successful tests with 2 Gbps uplink speeds. Perhaps most significantly, e& joined forces with ADNOC to deploy a private 5G network across 11,000 km², estimated to save AED 5.5 billion (~USD 1.5B) by 2030.

e& corporate statement

“We’re not just building networks. We’re building the infrastructure of tomorrow’s economy.”

5G & Mega Projects: UAE’s Strategic Opportunity

The UAE is already rolling out some of the region’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, including expansions of DXB and AUH airports, modernization of port corridors, and development of urban drone networks (V‑Ports). 5G is the foundation upon which these digital infrastructures are being built.

With slicing, private networks, and AI at the edge, e& enables these mega projects to achieve scale, security, and speed, positioning itself as a vendor and a visionary integrator.

Marwan Bin Shakar, Acting CTO, e&

“By achieving 10 Gbps with 6 GHz and extended 5G coverage beyond 6 km, we are not just setting technical benchmarks, we are paving the way for 5G‑Advanced, the future of 6G, and a smarter, more connected UAE.”

Beyond Connectivity: e&'s Evolution as a Technology Partner

e& UAE is no longer just a telecom provider, it’s a strategic partner in digital transformation. The company designs, deploys, and manages private 5G networks customized for specific industry needs. It has also developed orchestration platforms that combine 5G with AI at the edge, enabling logistics centers, airports, and smart cities to operate autonomously and more intelligently.

Moreover, e& is leading trials in advanced spectrum like 6 GHz and 600 MHz, providing better coverage and performance for large-scale industrial deployments.

Gartner 2025 UAE Brief

“This is what digital infrastructure-as-a-service looks like in the real world.”

Real-world 5G Applications in Action

5G is no longer theoretical; it’s transforming operations across sectors. ADNOC and e& deployed a private 5G network over 11,000 km² to enable smart logistics and save USD 1.5B by 2030. UK ports use 5G drones and junction control to boost efficiency, while maritime fleets are slashing satellite costs by 40% through 5G relays. AGVs powered by 5G are streamlining baggage and ground handling in airports. These are real-world applications already delivering measurable results.

Infographic: illustrates Key Benefits of 5G in Industry

Beyond its technical power, 5G transforms how industries streamline logistics, cut costs, and enable faster, smarter decisions. It boosts sustainability through real-time emissions and energy use monitoring, while enhancing security in high-risk zones. Most importantly, 5G fuels real-world innovation from AI cargo routing to drone logistics and AR maintenance. For governments and enterprises alike, it’s not just an upgrade, it’s the foundation of digital competitiveness.

Final Thought: A Connected Nation, A Smarter Future

We often speak of 5G as a future disruptor, but that future is already in motion in the UAE. The nation’s unwavering investment in smart infrastructure, coupled with bold execution from innovators like e&, is setting a global precedent. From AI-powered logistics hubs to autonomous port systems and predictive airport operations, the convergence of 5G and artificial intelligence is accelerating transformation and redefining what’s possible.

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e&

“We are moving from being a telco to a techco, using 5G as a catalyst to drive industry transformation and national progress.”

In today’s race for speed, intelligence, and resilience, 5G isn’t a luxury anymore; it’s the new baseline. With each rollout, the UAE isn’t just keeping up; it’s laying down the track for the rest of the world to follow.