AI-native 6G is gaining momentum as e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of global technology group e&, and Khalifa University jointly launched a white paper titled “6G AI-Native Networks: Architecture, Intelligence, and the Path to Autonomous Connectivity.” The paper provides a comprehensive blueprint for AI-native 6G networks. It outlines a transformative architecture that embeds intelligence as a core property of the network itself. Moreover, it presents a structured framework that contributes to global discussions on IMT-2030 and future 3GPP Release 21+ standardisation.

According to Marwan Bin Shakar, Chief Technology Officer at e& UAE, 6G represents more than incremental improvements. Instead, it redefines the network as an intelligent system. He stated that the blueprint introduces an AI-native architecture where learning, reasoning, and autonomous decision-making are embedded into the network’s core design. Furthermore, he noted that the contribution extends beyond vision. The framework proposes a structured AI-plane, closed-loop autonomy frameworks, measurable AI KPIs, and open standards interfaces designed to inform IMT-2030 and 3GPP Release 21+. He also highlighted that as a national operator, e& UAE aims to shape global standards, accelerate research testbeds, and ensure that AI-native 6G becomes a trusted, secure, and globally interoperable foundation for the digital economy.

Meanwhile, Ahmed Al Durra, Associate Provost at Khalifa University, emphasised the importance of collaboration between industry and academia. He said the joint white paper demonstrates how such cooperation can help shape the next generation of connectivity. In addition, he explained that AI-native 6G requires not only new wireless technologies but also new architectural thinking, AI lifecycle governance models, and standards frameworks. He added that Khalifa University contributes research-driven insights that combine distributed intelligence, digital twin ecosystems, and autonomous network orchestration into a unified global framework. Through this effort, the university aims to position the UAE at the forefront of AI-native standardisation and innovation.

The blueprint moves beyond incremental AI enhancements seen in 5G. Instead, it defines a fully AI-native architecture by introducing a dedicated AI-plane integrated alongside user, control, and management planes. As a result, this new layer enables continuous sensing, learning, reasoning, and autonomous actuation across radio, core, and edge domains. The framework also outlines distributed AI agents, closed-loop autonomy, AI lifecycle orchestration, digital twin integration, and standardised cross-domain interfaces. These elements are designed to support multi-vendor and multi-domain intelligence at scale.

Furthermore, the white paper identifies five key pillars that enable AI-native 6G. These include pervasive AI and machine learning frameworks, distributed cloud-edge computing, and advanced technologies such as integrated sensing. It also highlights open programmable architectures and sustainability-driven design. Together, these capabilities position 6G as more than just a faster network. Instead, it becomes a cognitive infrastructure capable of autonomous operations, predictive optimisation, and intent-based service delivery. Consequently, this could enable applications ranging from immersive holographic experiences to city-scale intelligent transportation systems.

In addition, the white paper introduces measurable AI-native KPIs. These include decision latency for closed-loop autonomy, learning accuracy, and energy efficiency per AI inference. Such metrics are expected to contribute structured performance indicators to ongoing global standardisation discussions.

Through this collaboration, e& UAE and Khalifa University reaffirm their commitment to advancing connectivity research and ecosystem development. Ultimately, the initiative aims to position the UAE as a global leader in AI-native connectivity innovation and standards development, while supporting the evolution of AI-native 6G networks worldwide.

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