Kenya and UAE Linked by New High-Speed Undersea Cable to Boost Digital Trade

Kenya, 3 November 2025 - A new high-capacity subsea data cable has officially linked the United Arab Emirates and Kenya, marking a major step toward improving internet speed, reliability, and connectivity between the Gulf region and East Africa.

The connection, developed jointly by UAE telecommunications firm du and PEACE Cable International Network, forms part of the wider PEACE Cable System, a multi-continent network designed to enhance digital routes between Asia, Africa, and Europe.

The newly launched UAE–Kenya link establishes the first direct digital corridor between the two regions, providing faster data transmission, improved redundancy, and lower latency for internet users and enterprises across both markets.

The move is expected to reduce dependence on existing European routing paths and improve the resilience of intercontinental communications infrastructure.

According to du executives, the new segment expands the UAE’s position as a leading global data hub and strengthens its ambition to become a centre for digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing in the Middle East.

The investment aligns with the country’s national strategy to foster a knowledge-driven economy built on smart technologies and high-speed infrastructure.

“The launch of the UAE–Kenya segment extends our international network reach and reinforces the UAE’s growing role in the global data ecosystem,” said Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer at du.

“This is a vital step in enabling cross-border digital collaboration, AI innovation, and advanced data services between the Middle East and Africa.”

PEACE Cable’s Chief Executive Officer, Xiaohua Sun, said the project demonstrates the company’s vision to connect continents through next-generation digital links.

“This direct connection between the UAE and Kenya strengthens access, reduces latency, and creates new opportunities for growth and digital inclusion across Africa and the Middle East,” he noted.

Industry analysts say the expanded network will play a critical role in supporting AI applications, hyperscale data centers, and cloud-based businesses that depend on fast, reliable international bandwidth.

The connection is also expected to accelerate trade and digital partnerships across the Indian Ocean corridor, positioning both the UAE and Kenya as key players in the global data economy.

The UAE–Kenya subsea cable now stands as a strategic bridge for data, innovation, and investment, laying the groundwork for closer digital and economic cooperation between Africa and the Middle East.