UAE Issues 10-Year Licence to Starlink for Satellite Internet Services

The United Arab Emirates has awarded Elon Musk's Starlink a 10-year General Satellite Services Licence, permitting the company to establish, operate, and manage a public satellite telecommunications network within the country. This licence authorizes Starlink to offer satellite broadband internet services to individuals, businesses, government entities, as well as maritime and aviation sectors.

The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) issued the licence following compliance with approved regulatory and technical frameworks. This move integrates a space-based component into the UAE’s national digital infrastructure, complementing existing terrestrial fibre-optic and 5G networks.

By introducing satellite internet services, the UAE aims to diversify internet access options, improve network resilience, and ensure continuity under various conditions. The enhanced connectivity is expected to support critical industries including maritime and aviation transport, energy, logistics, and emergency response.

The TDRA’s decision reflects its commitment to a flexible and progressive regulatory framework that embraces emerging technologies, broadens connectivity choices, and encourages competition. This approach is intended to improve service quality, customer experience, and the reliability of telecommunications services.

Furthermore, the licence is aligned with the UAE Digital Agenda and the "We the UAE 2031" vision, reinforcing the country’s status as a preferred destination for global satellite system operators.

Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of TDRA, stated that the licence marks a notable advancement for the UAE’s telecommunications sector. He emphasized that adopting advanced satellite internet services will expand connectivity options, enhance network resilience and business continuity, and support the UAE’s goal of becoming a regional and global hub for telecommunications and the digital economy.