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UAE: Drones to inspect cell towers for structural issues, improving worker safety
This proactive approach to maintenance will prevent costly disruptions and extend asset lifespans
- PUBLISHED: Wed 16 Apr 2025, 2:30 PM
- By:
- WAM
Autonomous drones will inspect cell towers, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), e& UAE announced on Wednesday.
The new initiative combines real-time data analytics, AI and autonomous flight capabilities to enable faster, safer, and more sustainable inspection of telecom towers across the UAE.
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Controlled remotely from the Drones Operations Centre, each drone flight is tracked in real time by expert teams who oversee flight progress, verify safety protocols and ensure inspection accuracy.
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Unlike traditional tower inspections, drones can navigate complex environments autonomously, enhancing worker safety and operational efficiency. They also play a vital role in emergency response, supporting the delivery of critical aid and connectivity in hard-to-reach areas.
Through advanced AI analytics, the drones instantly detect structural anomalies during inspection, enabling a proactive approach to maintenance that prevents costly disruptions and extends asset lifespans. The technology also supports remote inspections of safety procedures and surveillance of unauthorised activity driving a smarter, more secure network environment.
Each review generates actionable data that feeds into e& UAE’s digital infrastructure management systems, supporting predictive maintenance, optimised asset use and a significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional inspection methods.
Marwan bin Shakar, Acting Chief Technology & Information Officer, e& UAE, said, “The integration of autonomous drones into our operations reflects our commitment to reimagining network operations through cutting-edge innovation that improves reliability, safety and sustainability. Through AI-powered insights and real-time control, we are enhancing the safety and accuracy of telecom tower inspections while enabling faster, data-driven decisions that future-proof our infrastructure. And with the support of the Drones Operations Centre, we’re demonstrating how technology can elevate operational resilience while supporting the UAE’s broader ambitions for smart, sustainable cities.”