By Staff Reporter
The UAE has granted Elon Musk’s Starlink a 10-year General Satellite Services Licence, allowing the company to establish, operate and manage a public satellite telecommunications network and provide satellite broadband internet services across the country.
The licence, issued by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), will enable Starlink to offer connectivity services to individuals, businesses and government entities, while also supporting satellite communications for the maritime and aviation sectors.
The approval is expected to strengthen the UAE’s digital infrastructure by adding satellite-based connectivity alongside the country’s existing fibre-optic and 5G networks.
According to the TDRA, the new service will provide additional internet access options while improving the resilience, reliability and continuity of the UAE’s telecommunications network, particularly during situations where conventional infrastructure may be disrupted.
Starlink’s satellite connectivity is also expected to support several critical sectors, including maritime transport, aviation, energy, logistics and emergency response.
The TDRA said the licence reflects the UAE’s efforts to maintain a flexible and forward-looking regulatory environment capable of embracing emerging technologies, increasing consumer choice and encouraging competition within the telecommunications sector.
The move is further expected to contribute to improved service quality and customer experience while supporting business continuity and strengthening the UAE’s position as a regional and global hub for telecommunications and the digital economy.
TDRA Director-General Majed Sultan Al Mesmar described the licence as a significant development for the UAE’s telecommunications sector, saying it demonstrates the country’s commitment to advanced technologies, innovation and investment.
He said the introduction of satellite internet services would expand connectivity options, strengthen network resilience and business continuity, and support the UAE’s ambition to become a leading global centre for telecommunications and the digital economy.
The licence also aligns with the objectives of the UAE Digital Agenda and the country’s “We the UAE 2031” vision, as the government continues to invest in next-generation digital infrastructure and emerging technologies.
