Access Alert: Saudi Arabia launches consultation on spectrum management

Access Alert: Saudi Arabia launches consultation on spectrum management

Continuing the efforts carried out by the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CST) to improve Saudi Arabia’s regulatory framework and open its market to foreign companies, the regulator has recently released a consultation on the new regulations for the use of radio spectrum for satellite services.

In the “Regulations for the use of radio spectrum for satellite services”, CST proposes its new regulatory framework governing the use of spectrum for satellite communications in the Kingdom for the coming years.

The topics outlined in the consultation will determine key aspects, including frequency licensing requirements, technical standards, fee structures, and more. Notably, rules are defined for the procedures to obtain both network and individual licenses, while alignment with ITU definitions and recommendations is part of the intended changes. Overall, the proposed changes embrace a technology-neutral approach, paving the way for innovative applications to flourish.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is looking to foster innovation and investments, and contributions to the consultation from the industry are encouraged to ensure the final regulations account for operational needs and future technology plans. By submitting this document to the public view and scrutiny, CST is trying to include the views and needs of private sector and those who would have to comply with it. Therefore, this is a chance for companies to advocate for a favourable policy environment that enables growth and innovation for their current and future business plans and models.

The deadline to participate in this consultation is 30 April 2024. If you are interested in learning more about the new regulatory framework in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and would like support responding to this consultation, please contact Juliana Ramirez at [email protected] or Sofia Tirini at [email protected].

Related Articles

Lifting Off: Capturing the Potential of ASEAN’s Low-Altitude Economy

Lifting Off: Capturing the Potential of ASEAN’s Low-Altitude Economy

The low-altitude economy, a term first popularised in China, refers to economic activities operating in airspace up to 1,000 metres...

3 Jun 2025 Opinion
The UK’s Data Gamble: Will the DUA Bill Cost It Its EU Adequacy Status?

The UK’s Data Gamble: Will the DUA Bill Cost It Its EU Adequacy Status?

This article is part of Access Partnership’s series ‘The New Privacy Playbook: Adapting to a Shifting Global Landscape’, which explores...

3 Jun 2025 Opinion
Access Alert: Private Sector and Global Health After WHA78

Access Alert: Private Sector and Global Health After WHA78

Major developments at last week’s 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) indicate next steps for industry: Rebuild Regionally: Redirect advocacy and...

30 May 2025 Opinion
Access Alert: South Africa Signals Positive Change For Connectivity

Access Alert: South Africa Signals Positive Change For Connectivity

The benefits of increasing internet access and broadband connectivity have been estimated and measured by several studies. The World Bank...

28 May 2025 Opinion