How Basatne Is Powering Circular Telecom Innovation in the UAE and GCC
As the Gulf steps up its climate and sustainability ambitions, innovative solutions that extend device life, reduce e‑waste, and cut carbon emissions are gaining real traction. One standout example is Basatne International — a global leader in circular technology and reverse logistics — which is transforming how mobile devices are handled in the UAE and the broader GCC. (basatne.com)
1. Revolutionizing the Device Lifecycle: ArDroid Facility in Dubai
In late 2023, Basatne International opened a state‑of-the-art facility in Dubai Silicon Oasis equipped with advanced AI and robotics technology designed to dramatically reduce electronic waste and carbon emissions in the region. (basatne.com)
Key highlights of the facility:
AI-driven diagnostics and robotics can process up to 7,000 mobile devices per day, determining whether each device can be refurbished or responsibly recycled.
The system is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by over 500,000 kilograms per day, supporting UAE climate goals and circular economy targets.
By extending device lifespan, Basatne’s technology targets both landfill reduction and material reuse, aligning with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 and Net Zero 2050 strategies.
This facility — part of Basatne’s ArDroid division — represents a real, operational infrastructure focused on device reuse and sustainability.
2. ‘Upgrade & Protect’: Subscription Meets Sustainability
In 2025, Basatne MENA partnered with device lifecycle services leader Likewize to launch “Upgrade & Protect” — the Middle East’s first subscription-based smartphone program that embeds circular economy principles into everyday device ownership. (gccbusinessnews.com)
Key aspects of this programme:
Users in the GCC can upgrade, exchange, or protect devices under a flexible subscription model.
The model encourages reuse and refurbishment, reducing e-waste compared to traditional “buy and dispose” habits.
The infrastructure combines Basatne’s reverse logistics expertise with Cartlow’s recommerce and trade-in capabilities, creating an end-to-end circular ecosystem.
This model supports telecom ESG strategies and shifts regional consumption patterns toward more responsible, circular practices.
3. GCC Circular Economy Impact: Beyond Refurbishment
Basatne’s expansion, including the acquisition of Cartlow — a UAE recommerce platform — highlights a broader commitment to a fully integrated circular ecosystem. Together, these companies manage millions of devices responsibly, preventing hundreds of thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions. (en.arageek.com)
These efforts support national goals such as the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and align with Saudi Vision 2030’s environmental priorities, helping the telecom sector reduce its environmental footprint.
4. Why Basatne’s Innovations Matter
Basatne’s work in the GCC represents practical, scalable sustainability:
Real infrastructure with real impact: AI and robotics actively reduce e-waste and emissions at scale.
Circular tech becomes market practice: Subscription models like Upgrade & Protect make refurbishment and reuse part of everyday consumption.
Supporting regional climate goals: Efforts align with UAE and Saudi Arabia’s net-zero targets and sustainable consumption strategies.
5. A Green Telecom Future in the GCC
Basatne’s initiatives mark a turning point for sustainability in the region’s telecom landscape. By combining advanced technology, innovative business models, and strategic partnerships, they are helping shift the industry toward true circularity — where devices are used longer, refurbished better, and waste is minimized.
At NetZero, we celebrate such real, impactful progress and encourage more telecom partners and businesses in the GCC to adopt circular approaches that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.
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