Abu Dhabi’s Marlan Space has partnered with Loft Orbital to launch Orbitworks, the Middle East’s first private space infrastructure company. Orbitworks will produce LEO satellite constellations, with plans to launch the first platform by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s space industry.
The Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) is launching a joint-stock company for satellite component manufacturing and a marketing company to promote its products. Additionally, EgSA will introduce an online platform for purchasing satellite images, furthering Egypt’s influence in the global space sector and advancing its space technology industry.
STARLINK and other LEO satellite operators are interested in launching services in Pakistan but have not yet met the required licensing conditions. While STARLINK has applied for an LDI license, the approval process is ongoing, with regulatory concerns being addressed under the new National Space Policy.
Es’hailSat, the Qatar Satellite Company, is exploring a potential collaboration with Algeria TV to enhance broadcasting capabilities using its advanced satellite services. With a robust infrastructure and over 12 years of experience, Es’hailSat aims to support Algeria TV in improving the country’s broadcasting sector.
The UAE’s launch of the Foresight-1 SAR satellite marks a major step in its global space leadership. Bayanat and Yahsat’s collaboration on this project strengthens the UAE’s space capabilities, enhances geospatial solutions, and supports the National Space Strategy 2030. The upcoming merger will establish “Space42” as a key player in the global space sector.
ICASA has launched a consultation process to create a new regulatory framework that simplifies licensing for LEO satellite operators like Starlink in South Africa. The proposed framework aims to streamline procedures, revise spectrum fees, and support the growth of satellite services, particularly in remote areas. The consultation runs until November 12.
Bayanat and Yahsat have successfully launched their first LEO SAR satellite, developed in collaboration with ICEYE. This satellite, part of a larger SAR constellation, will enhance geospatial monitoring across the Middle East, offering near real-time imaging for disaster management, maritime surveillance, and smart mobility, underpinning the upcoming merger into Space42.
Oman’s national telecom regulator has initiated a public consultation to optimize the use of the 1980-2010 MHz and 2170-2200 MHz frequency bands for advancing communication technologies, including satellite IoT. This aims to enhance spectrum management, attract investment, and stimulate innovation, with public feedback invited until July 25, 2024.
Bahrain’s Survey and Land Registration Bureau has partnered with Aetosky and Planet to introduce an AI-enhanced urban planning system using high-resolution satellite imagery. This system improves urban management by monitoring changes and streamlining building permit processes, advancing Bahrain’s commitment to smart, sustainable urban development.
The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Survey and Land Registration Bureau has implemented an advanced urban planning system using SkySat data and AI, in collaboration with Planet and Aetosky. This system monitors changes in urban development and environment, enhancing smart city planning, sustainability, and efficient resource allocation across Bahrain’s 850 square kilometers.
