BE Magazine - August 2026

The Horizon of 6G for Arab Banks 6G TECHNICAL ENABLERS 6G technical enablers include the use of terahertz (THz) frequency bands to achieve ultra-high data rates up to 1 Tbps (Terra bits per second), optical wireless technologies such as visible light communication for se- cure short-range links, and AI-driven networks that self-optimize and adapt in real time. Further advances like reconfigurable intelligent sur- faces will enhance coverage and energy efficiency, quantum commu- nication will provide unbreakable se- curity through quantum key distribution, and satellite-terrestrial integration will ensure global con- nectivity even in remote areas, while innovations such as non-IP network- ing will move beyond traditional protocols to deliver faster, more ef- ficient data transfer, collectively forming the backbone of 6G’s trans- formative capabilities. GLOBAL RACE FOR 6G The global race for 6G is driven by strategic competition among leading nations and companies, with China investing heavily through Huawei and ZTE under its the Ministry of In- dustry and Information Technology IMT-2030 program, South Korea ad- vancing prototypes via Samsung and SK Telecom, Japan funding research through the Beyond 5G Consortium and NTT DOCOMO, the United States mobilizing initiatives like the Next G Alliance alongside Qual- comm and DARPA, and the Euro- pean Union coordinating projects such as Hexa-X with Nokia and Eric- sson. Each region aims for trials around 2028–2030 and commercial rollout by 2030–2031, making 6G not only a technological milestone but also a matter of geopolitical in- fluence, patent leadership, and digi- tal sovereignty. the BANKING EXECUTIVE 10 ISSUE 212 AUGUST 2026 6G Enablers Enabler Description Impact Terahertz Optical Wireless AI Networks RIS Quantum Satellite Integration Non-IP Networking Ultra-high frequency bands Light-based communication Self-optimizing systems Smart signal control Quantum key distribution Non-terrestrial networks Information-centric protocols 1 Tbps speeds Secure, high bandwidth Efficiency, adaptability Better coverage, energy savings Stronger security Global connectivity Faster data delivery 6G Applications Application Description Impact Mixed Reality Autonomous Mobility Critical Services Global Internet Digital Twins AI Communication Real-time holograms, AR/VR Connected cars, drones Disaster-proof communication Satellite + terrestrial Real-time replicas Context-aware networks Collaboration, entertainment Safer transport, logistics Public safety, resilience Digital inclusion Smart cities, industry Efficiency, adaptability