Middle East Space Roundup: 23 December 2024 to 5 January 2025
A summary of all the space news in the Greater Middle East over the past two weeks, brought to you by AzurX
The following are the major space developments in the Greater Middle East region tracked by Middle East Space Monitor over the past two weeks:
UAE Space Developments
Space42’s Thuraya-4 Communications Satellite Successfully Launched by SpaceX
SpaceX successfully launched the Thuraya-4 communications satellite for Space42, the UAE’s AI-powered space technology company, on 3 January 2025. The satellite, built on the Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, was deployed into geostationary transfer orbit by a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Thuraya-4, equipped with a 12-meter L-band antenna, will provide narrowband connectivity across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East, replacing aging Boeing-built satellites. This launch marks a significant step for Space42, formed through the merger of Yahsat and AI provider Bayanat, as they aim to enhance global services with AI-driven innovations. The company is also planning a broader satellite expansion with future launches, including the Al Yah-4 and Al Yah-5 satellites by 2027 and 2028, and is exploring multi-orbit strategies, including low Earth orbit deployments.
Report: 90% of MBZ-SAT’s Electronic Components Made in the UAE
The Mohammed Bin Zayed Satellite (MBZ-SAT), the largest and most advanced Earth observation satellite developed in the UAE, is set to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket this month. Developed primarily in the UAE with significant contributions from the country's space sector including 90% of its electronic components made in the Emirates, the satellite is a result of 20 years of expertise at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC). MBZ-SAT is designed to enhance data collection for government agencies, providing high-resolution imaging and improving service delivery by enabling faster access to data. Equipped with a state-of-the-art camera and environmental monitoring capabilities, MBZ-SAT will aid in disaster management, agriculture development, and sustainable urban planning. The satellite's capabilities, including capturing images with resolutions greater than one square meter, will support the UAE’s efforts in crisis management and global disaster response, significantly boosting the country’s space capabilities and reinforcing its leadership in the region.
2025 Will be a Significant Year for the UAE’s Space Ambitions
The UAE space sector is poised for significant advancements in 2025, with major projects and technological developments expected to elevate its global presence. Key milestones include the launch of MBZ-Sat, a cutting-edge Earth observation satellite, and continued progress on the country’s second lunar rover, Rashid-2. The UAE is also expanding its role in international space endeavors, notably its involvement in NASA’s Gateway lunar station project, including the development of the Emirates Airlock module. Additionally, the UAE Space Agency is advancing its MBR Explorer mission, which will explore the asteroid belt and Venus. These efforts are complemented by the growth of the private space sector, which is attracting regional and international investment and fostering local innovation. The country’s commitment to space research, education, and technological development is expected to strengthen its position in the global space competition, supported by increasing collaborations and venture capital investment.
ICEYE Reveals Details About UAE’s Foresight-1 SAR Satellite
ICEYE, a leader in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology, continues to expand its presence in the Middle East and North Africa region with a significant milestone, launching the UAE’s first SAR satellite in collaboration with Bayanat and Yahsat (now Space42). This launch supports the UAE’s Space Strategy 2030 and enhances its Earth observation capabilities, particularly in monitoring natural disasters and climate change. ICEYE’s SAR satellites provide high-resolution, near-real-time data, which is crucial for disaster response and long-term climate monitoring. By using AI-powered geospatial solutions, ICEYE can accelerate analysis of satellite imagery, improving decision-making in disaster management, particularly for floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters. The company plans to expand its constellation, which will enable continuous monitoring and offer critical insights into environmental and infrastructure challenges in the region. This ongoing development highlights ICEYE’s role in driving both technological advancements and regional resilience, while also contributing to the growing New Space economy in the Middle East and North Africa.
UAE’s MBRSC Concludes 2024 Research Experience for Undergraduates Program
The UAE’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) recently concluded its 2024 Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program, a 10-week initiative aimed at enhancing the research skills of Emirati students in STEM fields. The program, in collaboration with institutions such as New York University Abu Dhabi, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the UAE’s National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC), provided students the opportunity to contribute to impactful space science projects. Participants worked on diverse research areas, including human health in space, protein crystallization, and lunar rover heat transfer, under the mentorship of experts from MBRSC and partner institutions. This initiative underscores MBRSC's commitment to nurturing the next generation of space scientists and strengthening the UAE's position in the global space sector. Through hands-on research, the program fosters innovation, skill development, and career growth, positioning students to make significant contributions to future advancements in space exploration and technology.
Türkiye Space News
Türkiye’s Türksat-6A Communications Satellite Successfully Deployed in GEO and Ready to Start Operations
Türkiye's space capabilities have been significantly enhanced with the successful deployment of Türksat-6A, the country’s first domestically produced communication satellite. Following its orbital journey, the satellite reached its permanent 42-degree East orbit after six firings in space, marking a major achievement in Türkiye’s space program. Türksat-6A, developed with the highest localization rate, is a product of extensive collaboration with Turkish companies like ASELSAN, TUSAŞ, TÜBİTAK UZAY, and CTECH. This satellite will expand Türkiye’s communication reach to regions previously underserved, including Southeast Asia, increasing the global population covered by Türkiye's satellites from 3.5 billion to over 5 billion. With Türksat-6A’s entry into service in 2025, Türkiye solidifies its status as a key international player in satellite and space technologies, boosting both its national capabilities and global standing.
Turkish Space Agency Introduces New Regulations to Expand International and Commercial Space Activities
The Turkish Space Agency (TUA) has introduced new regulations to enhance its operations both domestically and internationally, aimed at advancing Türkiye’s space and aviation sectors. The decree, now in effect, enables TUA to establish R&D and test centers both in Türkiye and abroad, accelerating technological advancements in satellites, launch vehicles, and aviation technologies. The agency is also granted authority to foster international collaboration, develop joint projects, and share knowledge to strengthen its technological capabilities. Furthermore, TUA can now establish companies, acquire existing ones, and engage in share transfers, boosting investment and local production in aerospace. Through training programs and partnerships with TÜBİTAK, TUA will also nurture the next generation of space scientists and engineers. With these new regulatory powers, TUA aims to reduce Türkiye’s reliance on foreign technologies, improve its competitive standing in the global space market, and take a leading role in space exploration and research.
Türkiye’s GÖKTÜRK-2 Reconnaissance Satellite Exceeds All Operational Expectations
Türkiye achieved a significant milestone in its space program with the successful 12-year mission of its first national reconnaissance satellite, GÖKTÜRK-2. Launched in 2012, the satellite was designed and built by TÜBİTAK UZAY and Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TUSAŞ), marking a key step in Türkiye’s quest for technological independence in space. Originally planned for a 5-year lifespan, GÖKTÜRK-2 far exceeded expectations, providing crucial data for various sectors including environmental management, agriculture, urbanization, and defense. With its high-resolution imaging capabilities, the satellite demonstrated Türkiye’s growing expertise in space technology, contributing to future projects like the İMECE Earth observation satellite and TÜRKSAT-6A communication satellite. GÖKTÜRK-2’s success highlights Türkiye’s advancements in satellite design, production, and testing, positioning the country as a rising player in the global space industry and paving the way for further technological innovations.
Turkish Scientists Contribute to Space Agriculture Research for Moon and Mars Habitation
The future of agricultural production in space is becoming increasingly crucial as humanity moves toward establishing sustainable living spaces on the Moon and Mars. However, the regoliths on these celestial bodies lack the necessary nutrients and water to support plant growth, requiring significant improvements to their physical and chemical properties. To address this, extremophyte plants, which are resistant to harsh conditions, are being explored for their potential to grow in space. Key challenges such as zero gravity, limited water resources, and nutrient deficiencies are being tackled through methods like hydroponics, aeroponics, and controlled indoor farming. Ongoing research, including projects in Türkiye aimed at improving the agricultural viability of Moon and Mars regoliths using extremophyte plants, is paving the way for sustainable food production in space. These efforts not only aim to ensure food security for long-term space missions but also contribute to astronauts' psychological well-being by providing a source of relaxation. As space agriculture continues to evolve, it will play a vital role in supporting humanity’s presence in space.
Israel Space Developments
Israel Aerospace Industries Receives Contract from Israeli Government for Arrow-3 Interceptors
Israel's defense ministry and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have signed a significant production contract to expand the supply of Arrow-3 missile defense interceptors for the Israeli military. Valued at billions of shekels, the deal will bolster Israel’s air defense capabilities by providing a large number of Arrow-3 interceptors, a critical component of the country’s multi-layered missile defense strategy. The Arrow system, developed in collaboration with the U.S., has demonstrated exceptional performance, including intercepting ballistic missiles in space during recent conflicts with Iran and the Houthi militia in Yemen. The new agreement not only strengthens national security but also contributes to the local economy, creating thousands of jobs. This milestone highlights Israel’s commitment to technological innovation, with Arrow-3 serving as a symbol of its strategic superiority and resilience. The deal ensures the Israel Defense Force’s (IDF) preparedness against emerging threats, maintaining Israel’s qualitative edge in defense technology.
Israeli Researcher: Space Now Critical Battleground in Middle East Conflicts
The growing reliance on space technologies has made space a critical battleground in regional conflicts, according to Dr. Liran Antebi, a senior research fellow at Israel’s Tel Aviv University. In an interview at the 2025 Forecasts Conference, Dr. Antebi discussed how global military advancements in space, such as satellite-based navigation systems, spy satellites, anti-satellite weapons, and autonomous weapon systems, are reshaping warfare. These technologies, combined with artificial intelligence, enable the development of sophisticated autonomous systems that could dominate future conflicts. Dr. Antebi highlighted the rise of drones as key weapons on the battlefield, emphasizing how easily they can be manufactured and deployed by countries like Iran to support groups across the Middle East. She also noted Israel’s leadership in counter-UAV defense, but stressed the need for continual innovation as drone threats evolve. The integration of AI in UAVs introduces both new possibilities and ethical challenges, as autonomous systems raise questions about accountability in warfare. As technology continues to redefine military engagements, Dr. Antebi warned that future conflicts will be faster, more dispersed, and driven by technological advancements.
Israel’s Gilat Secures $18 Million in Orders for Its IFC SATCOM Solutions
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has secured over $18 million in orders for its In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) solutions, primarily for its SkyEdge platforms, related services, and SSPAs, with delivery expected within the next 12 months. This significant order underscores the growing demand for advanced satellite connectivity solutions in the IFC market, a strategic sector for Gilat. The company’s flexible architecture is designed to support the rapid expansion of IFC networks, providing reliable and scalable connectivity to meet the increasing needs of service providers. According to Amir Yafe, VP of Mobility & Global Accounts at Gilat, these orders reflect confidence in the company’s technology and its ability to address the unique challenges of the IFC market.
Iran Space News
Iran Plans to Launch Pars-2 Earth Observation Satellite in February 2025
Iran's Space Agency (ISA) has announced plans to launch the Pars-2 satellite during the Fajr Decade, which coincides with the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution from 1 to 11 February 2025. Head of the ISA, Hassan Salariyeh, revealed that the Pars-2 Earth observation satellite, designed to offer imagery with an accuracy of four meters, will play a significant role in advancing Iran's space capabilities. Salariyeh highlighted the importance of the space industry in attracting global expertise across various fields, noting its historical roots in the Cold War rivalry between the East and West. The development of space technology, he explained, has been driven by geopolitical competition, with the 1957 launch of the Soviet Union's Sputnik satellite marking the beginning of this global race.
Official: Iran Expects to Launch Tolu-3 and Zafar-2 Satellites in Late Spring 2025
Iran's space program is progressing with plans to launch two new satellites, Tolu-3 and Zafar-2, in late Spring 2025, after initial delays related to the need for sun-synchronous orbits and launch vehicle issues. Hassan Salariyeh, head of Iran’s space agency, provided updates on these missions as well as ongoing projects like the Pars-3 Earth observation satellite, which is in the design phase and will feature a two-meter imaging accuracy. Additionally, the Pars-2 Earth observation satellite, expected to launch in February 2025 or later, will have an imaging accuracy of less than four meters. Recent achievements in Iran's space program include the successful launches of the Soraya, Chamran-1, and Fakhr-1 satellites in 2024, demonstrating the country's growing capabilities in satellite technology and space exploration.
Iran Threatens to Disrupt Starlink if SpaceX Does Not Comply With Iranian Regulations
Iran has threatened to disrupt SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service unless the company complies with its regulations, highlighting the government's concern over unfettered internet access. Former Iranian official Amir Mohammadzadeh Lajevardi warned that SpaceX could face interference if it does not adhere to Iran's rules, following reports of Iranians using Starlink terminals to bypass the country’s strict internet censorship. Despite some digital platform restrictions being lifted, the underground network of smuggling and advocacy has allowed many Iranians to access uncensored internet through Starlink. Iran's Ministry of Telecommunications has demanded that SpaceX obtain a license for operations and filed a complaint with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which sided with Iran. The move underscores the increasing tension over global satellite internet services and Iran's desire to control online communications, particularly as Starlink becomes a viable tool for circumventing government-imposed restrictions.
U.S. Analyst: Simorgh is Central to Iran’s Space and Ballistic Missile Programs
Writing for The National Interest, U.S. analyst Brandon J. Weichert asserts that Iran’s Simorgh missile, a two-stage, liquid-fueled Space Launch Vehicle (SLV), is central to both Iran’s expanding space and ballistic missile programs. Officially intended to place satellites into low-Earth orbit, the Simorgh is a dual-use system with both civilian and military applications. Despite facing setbacks and Western sanctions, the missile has had a degree of success, though it remains a key concern for the international community. Critics fear that Iran's space activities could serve as a cover for its ballistic missile program, potentially advancing its nuclear weapons ambitions. While Iran’s nuclear weapons capabilities are debated, the Simorgh’s technology could be adapted for intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) use, raising alarms about its potential for nuclear delivery systems. As tensions in the Middle East evolve, Iran’s progress in missile development signals a growing threat, particularly as it seeks to enhance its nuclear capabilities in response to regional instability.
Saudi Arabia Space Developments
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group: A Remarkable First Six Months
The Neo Space Group (NSG), a key player in Saudi Arabia's space ambitions, has made significant strides in 2024, advancing its mission to lead global space innovation. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), NSG focuses on satellite communications, geospatial services, Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT), and space venture investments. Recent achievements include collaborations with SES Satellite to enhance in-flight connectivity (IFC) services, securing a permit from Saudi Arabia’s Communications Space & Technology Commission (CST) for Earth observation services, and acquiring Taqnia ETS to strengthen its geospatial capabilities. Additionally, NSG participated in key events such as the World Space Business Week, showcasing its commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030. The company’s efforts to foster innovation and build a world-class workforce were also highlighted at the HR Summit & Expo 2024. NSG’s forward-looking initiatives aim to boost Saudi Arabia’s space industry, support sustainable land use, and expand its presence in global satellite solutions, positioning it as a leading space player in the region and beyond.
Saudi Arabia, Other Regional Countries, Look to Back UK’s Space Solar
Space Solar, a UK-based start-up, is making strides in the development of space-based solar power, a technology that promises to provide continuous, weather-independent energy by beaming solar power from satellites in space to Earth. With an $800 million investment, Space Solar plans to launch a system capable of delivering 30 megawatts of energy by 2030. The system uses high-frequency radio waves to transmit energy, solving the challenge of safely sending electricity from space. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Middle Eastern countries are showing strong interest in this technology, seeing it as a potential solution to their energy needs and a way to transition from fossil fuels to green energy. Space Solar's system could also serve as an export opportunity for the region, with the ability to beam energy to other parts of the world, such as Europe. The company is already in discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Neom project and other Middle Eastern entities. As the cost of launching satellites continues to decrease with reusable rockets like SpaceX’s Starship, space-based solar power could become a cost-effective, reliable energy source, offering an exciting alternative to traditional renewable energy systems.
Bahrain Space News
Bahrain’s NSSA Participates in UN Working Group on the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities
The National Space Science Agency (NSSA) of Bahrain, represented by Shaikha Hessa bint Ali Al Khalifa, participated in the UN's Working Group Meeting on the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities, organized by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). The meeting focused on key challenges in space sustainability, including managing large satellite constellations, spacecraft maneuvres, and improving navigation and collision mitigation regulations. Shaikha Hessa highlighted the discussions as crucial for shaping future dialogues at the upcoming Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC) meetings in 2025. Additionally, Shaikha Hessa will make history as the first Bahraini and Arab Vice Chair of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in June 2025, further advancing Bahrain’s leadership in space sustainability and global space governance.
Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority Hosts Satellite Communication Training Programme
Bahrain's Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) recently held a transformative Satellite Communication Training Program led by global expert Professor Alexander Akpodiete, focusing on advancing the country's telecommunications sector. The five-day programme, aligned with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 goals, brought together top engineers, managers, and directors to explore cutting-edge satellite communication technologies, with an emphasis on real-world applications such as maritime connectivity and digital inclusion in rural areas. The training covered key topics like satellite orbits, frequency bands, and modern network management tools, integrating cybersecurity measures and AI advancements to enhance satellite systems. Participants engaged in a capstone project to design satellite systems supporting national resilience, which helped foster innovation and collaboration. The programme demonstrated how satellite technology can drive Bahrain’s objectives for sustainability, competitiveness, and fairness by addressing challenges like disaster recovery and smart city enablement. This initiative exemplifies Bahrain’s commitment to developing its space and communications infrastructure, with plans to extend similar training across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in the future.
Morocco Space Developments
Morocco Adopts EUMETSAT’s Meteosat Third Generation Satellite System
Morocco's General Directorate of Meteorology (DGM) has upgraded its weather monitoring capabilities by adopting the Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) satellite system, replacing the older Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) system. The MTG system, one of the most advanced weather satellites globally, offers significant improvements, including faster image capture every 10 minutes at a 1-kilometer resolution—far surpassing the previous system’s 15-minute interval and 3-kilometer resolution. With 16 observation channels, the MTG provides more detailed and accurate weather data, and it introduces the ability to detect and track lightning almost instantly, enabling quicker storm warnings. Fully operational as of 4 December 2024, the MTG system enhances Morocco's ability to predict extreme weather events and mitigate risks, reinforcing the country's meteorological capabilities and contributing to public safety.
Morocco Reveals Broadband Development Plan that Includes VSAT SATCOM Coverage
Morocco’s Minister of Communication and Digital Transformation, Amel Al Falah, recently outlined the government's ongoing efforts to improve internet coverage in remote areas as part of the National High and Very High Broadband Development Plan. The first phase of this initiative, launched in 2018 and set to conclude in 2024, has successfully provided telecommunication services to over 1,640 areas. The second phase, which aims to extend services to 1,800 additional underserved regions by 2026, includes the use of very small aperture terminal (VSAT) satellite technology to address coverage challenges in hard-to-reach areas. Al Falah highlighted that these efforts are not only focused on technological solutions but also align with Morocco's broader goals of empowering rural communities through improved access to education, healthcare, and remote work opportunities, thus contributing to the country’s sustainable development and digital equity.
Yemen Space News
Starlink in Yemen: “Intellectuals” and Politicians Take Hardline Against Satellite Internet Service
Yemen’s Sana'a University recently hosted a symposium titled "The Danger of the Entry of the American Communications and Internet Company - Starlink, - Yemen and the Risks to Social Peace and National Security," organized by the College of Computer and Information Technology and the Science and Technology Center. The event, attended by key figures including Minister of Education Hassan al Sa'adi and University Rector Dr. al Qasim Abbas, highlighted concerns over Starlink’s potential threats to Yemen’s national security and social peace. Dr. Abbas warned that controlling information, a domain where Starlink plays a significant role, could undermine national sovereignty, citing the company's global influence and alleged ties to Israel. Experts discussed the growing importance of cybersecurity and the risks posed by uncontrolled internet access, including threats to personal security and the telecommunications sector. The symposium concluded with recommendations to strengthen Yemen's digital infrastructure, promote local innovation, and enhance cybersecurity measures to safeguard against the potential risks of space internet services like Starlink.
New Yemen-Saudi Arabia Venture to Set Up Satellite Communications Company
Companies from Yemen and Saudi Arabia are collaborating on a series of initiatives worth approximately SAR 470 million ($125.15 million), aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries. During a recent Saudi-Yemeni Business Council meeting in Makkah, key projects were outlined, including investments in energy, satellite communications, trade, and infrastructure. Notably, three new companies will be established in Saudi Arabia, including a solar energy company with a $100 million capital, a satellite-based communications company, and a business focused on organizing international exhibitions. Additionally, a new quarantine facility will be built on the Yemeni-Saudi border, and proposals for smart cities at key border crossings aim to enhance logistics and trade. These ventures highlight the growing cooperation between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, underpinned by investments in advanced technologies and infrastructure development.
Other Regional Space Developments
How Algeria Hopes Space Cooperation With Russia Will Advance its Space Programme
Algeria and Russia have further solidified their strategic partnership with the recent ratification of a space cooperation agreement, marking a key development in Algeria’s space programme. Signed during President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's 2023 visit to Moscow, the agreement focuses on strengthening Algeria's satellite capabilities, particularly through the acquisition of advanced reconnaissance, communications, and Earth observation satellites. This partnership aligns with Algeria’s Vision 2030 to modernize its space sector, including the replacement of aging satellites and the expansion of national sovereignty through secure communications and improved disaster response capabilities. The agreement also includes the training of Algerian astronauts for future space missions and increased collaboration in satellite navigation, space science, and exploration. With growing space interests, Algeria is also enhancing its relations with other space-active countries, such as South Africa, Türkiye, and Italy, signaling a broader effort to position itself as a regional space leader while diversifying its technological and geopolitical partnerships.
Egypt Joint Leader in Africa for Number of Satellites Owned and Operated
Egypt, along with South Africa, leads Africa in satellite ownership, each country having 13 satellites in orbit, followed by Nigeria with seven and Algeria with six, according to a recent report from Business Africa. This increasing satellite presence reflects a broader trend across the continent, where countries are recognizing the critical role satellites play in monitoring climate developments. The report further reveals that 125 new satellites are set to be developed and launched by 23 African countries in 2025. As the global space economy reaches approximately $469 billion, Africa’s space industry, valued at $19.49 billion in 2021, is expected to grow by 16.16%, reaching $22.64 billion by 2026.
Oman’s Ankaa Space and Technology Establishes Region’s First Center for Development of Drones and Robotics for Civil Applications
Oman’s Ankaa Space and Technology, a company registered with the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED), is establishing the region's first center dedicated to developing drones and robotics for agriculture, housing, and urban planning. The company is also creating an urban observatory platform, marking a pioneering initiative in the Middle East. In collaboration with various government agencies, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, as well as private entities like NASA and OQ, Ankaa is advancing research in robotics and AI applications. These initiatives focus on programming drones and integrating AI to enhance various sectors, with an emphasis on practical, industry-specific applications.
Azerbaijan’s Azercosmos Reports Revenues from January to November 2024
Azercosmos, Azerbaijan's national satellite operator, generated $16.9 million in revenue from satellite and telecommunication services between January and November 2024, serving 50 countries. Of this, 73% came from the export of services, highlighting the company's strong international presence. In November 2024 alone, Azercosmos exported $1.5 million worth of services to 40 countries, with significant exports to the UK, Luxembourg, the UAE, Pakistan, and Türkiye. Compared to 2023, when Azercosmos earned $19.8 million, this represents a slight decrease, marking a 25.56% drop from the previous year. However, the company’s continued focus on expanding its export market underscores its pivotal role in the global satellite and telecommunication services sector.
Qatar’s Es’hailSat Partners With Kuwait’s Gulfsat to Provide VSAT SATCOM Coverage Throughout MENA Region
Qatar’s Es’hailSat has partnered with Kuwait’s Gulfsat Communications to provide satellite transponder capacity on its Es’hail-1 satellite at the 25.5° East hotspot. This collaboration will enable Gulfsat to expand its very small aperture terminal (VSAT) services across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Gulfsat, a leading provider of satellite communications, broadcast, and media services in MENA, also operates global nodes in regions including the U.S., UK, France, and Singapore. Es’hailSat's high-speed connectivity and reliable services are key to supporting Gulfsat’s market position, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Both companies expressed their commitment to expanding the partnership and exploring new business verticals in the future, highlighting the strategic importance of satellite communication services in the region.
Regional Space Developments in Brief:
The Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) Technical Committee for Standards and Metrology met in Muscat, Oman, where it reviewed projects aimed at developing calibration and remote sensing technologies, including space-borne microwave radiation measuring devices;
Azerbaijan’s Azercosmos has announced a tender for new IT equipment with proposals expected to be submitted by 17:00hrs (GMT+4) on 27 January 2025.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!