Telefónica Global Solutions, the Spanish group’s international roaming and wholesale services arm, has signed a satellite and teleport service framework agreement with Saudi telecom operator stc, expanding their partnership into satellite communications.
Under the agreement, the two companies will collaborate on developing tailored satellite connectivity services for customers, with a primary focus on Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. The partnership will explore multi-orbit solutions using geostationary (GEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO), and low-Earth orbit (LEO) platforms to deliver scalable, high-speed connectivity.
The collaboration will target sectors with demanding connectivity requirements, including aviation, emergency services, maritime operations, mission-critical applications across land, sea, and air, and rural connectivity.
Mohammed Alabbadi, Chief Carrier and Wholesale Officer at stc, said the partnership will help build scalable communications infrastructure while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. He noted that working with Telefónica strengthens stc’s satellite capabilities and positions the company as a partner of choice for industries that require secure, high-performance connectivity beyond traditional networks.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme aims to diversify the economy, accelerate digitalisation, and attract investment. The strategy includes expanding national digital infrastructure, with targets to exceed 90 percent high-speed broadband coverage in urban areas and reach 66 percent in less-dense regions.
Through this agreement, Telefónica and stc are aligning their international capabilities to deliver resilient, next-generation connectivity across critical sectors and underserved geographies.
