UAE has granted Starlink a 10-year General Satellite Services Licence, authorising the establishment, operation and management of a public satellite telecommunications network and providing satellite broadband internet services in the UAE.
Services by the Elon Musk-owned company will cover individuals, businesses and government entities, as well as satellite connectivity for the maritime and aviation sectors.
The licence was granted by the Telecommunications And Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), in accordance with approved regulatory and technical frameworks and subject to fulfilment of the necessary requirements.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
It adds a space-based layer to the country’s national digital infrastructure, complementing terrestrial fibre-optic and 5G networks.
This will diversify internet access options, enhance the resilience, readiness, and continuity of the national network under various conditions, and support critical sectors including maritime and aviation transport, energy, logistics, and emergency response.
The licence reflects TDRA’s approach to adopting a flexible and forward-looking regulatory framework that embraces emerging technologies, expands user choice and connectivity solutions, and promotes competition.
This is expected to contribute to service quality, customer experience, and continuity of telecommunications services, while reinforcing the UAE’s position as an attractive destination for global satellite system operators, in support of the objectives of the UAE Digital Agenda and “We the UAE 2031” vision.
Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of TDRA, said, “This license represents a significant addition to the UAE’s telecommunications sector and reflects the country’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies and fostering a flexible regulatory environment that supports innovation and investment. The introduction of advanced satellite internet services will expand connectivity options, enhance network resilience and business continuity, and support the UAE’s ambition to strengthen its position as a regional and global hub for telecommunications and the digital economy.”
Source: Khaleej Times