Space42, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, announced that Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of its Space Services unit, has been elected Chairman of the Board of the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA). Al Hashemi becomes the first Emirati to assume this position, marking a milestone for the UAE’s growing leadership in the global space sector.
With more than two decades of experience in telecommunications, defence, and aerospace, Al Hashemi has played a pivotal role in advancing satellite communications. At Space42, he has led initiatives such as the launch of the Thuraya-4 satellite in January 2025 and the expansion of direct-to-device (D2D) services across Africa. His leadership roles also include chairing AMMROC and serving on the boards of the UAE Space Agency and the National Space Science and Technology Centre.
Previously, as Group CEO of Yahsat, Al Hashemi spearheaded the company’s successful IPO on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange in 2021—one of the largest in the exchange’s history—and oversaw the integration of Thuraya following its acquisition in 2018. His achievements have earned him recognition among Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 CEOs (2023 and 2024) and Sustainability Leaders (2023).
In his acceptance remarks, Al Hashemi expressed pride in the appointment, emphasizing his commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation across the satellite sector. He will work alongside newly elected GSOA Vice Chairs Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES, and Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, CEO of NigComSat. Together, the leadership team will guide GSOA’s mission to drive inclusive, sustainable growth across the global satellite ecosystem.
Representing around 70 members worldwide, GSOA serves as the unified voice of the satellite industry. Recognized by regulators, policymakers, and global organizations such as the ITU, 3GPP, and the World Economic Forum, GSOA brings together operators, manufacturers, launchers, and ground segment players to advance collaboration and address global connectivity challenges.
The UAE’s investment in next-generation satellite communications and geospatial technologies has positioned it as a key international space partner. Through Space42, the nation continues to expand sovereign satellite capabilities, pursue D2D innovations, and develop local talent to support the future of its space industry.
