Qatar opens consultation on spectrum fees, signalling shift in satellite pricing

Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has launched a public consultation on a comprehensive review of its radio spectrum fees framework. The consultation proposes targeted adjustments to the existing formula-based pricing regime, introduces new fee tables for emerging services such as Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite connectivity, and extends spectrum pricing into higher frequency bands above 40 GHz.

Importantly, the consultation represents a notable development for the satellite sector. For the first time, a regulator explicitly proposes benchmarking mobile terrestrial spectrum fees as a reference point for setting fees for satellite spectrum used in direct-to-device services.

This signals a shift towards assessing satellite spectrum pricing in the context of competitive dynamics with mobile networks, rather than treating satellite services in isolation, and could influence regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions.

Key proposals

The CRA proposes to retain its core formula-based approach to spectrum pricing, while introducing several targeted updates:

• Base value: Retain the base value for spectrum fees at QAR 130 per MHz, with no inflationary adjustment.
• Higher-frequency bands: Extend frequency band factors beyond 40 GHz, including V, E, W, and D bands, to accommodate future satellite services and longer-term 5G and 6G developments.
• NGSO/GSO differentiation: Introduce an NGSO/GSO factor for satellite services, applying differentiated pricing between geostationary and non-geostationary satellite systems.
• D2D MSS fee table: Create a new fee table for Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) used for D2D communications in the L, S, and L/S bands, with fees benchmarked against mobile (IMT) spectrum pricing.
• Special-use fees: Introduce new and revised fee tables for special uses, including Wi-Fi, radio frequency cameras and Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE), reflecting discounted rates for low-power and temporary uses.
• Test and development licences: Clarify fees for test and development licences, distinguishing between non-commercial research activities and commercial trials or demonstrations.

The CRA emphasises that the majority of spectrum fees will remain unchanged in quantum, with adjustments primarily focused on new services, new bands, and future-looking use cases rather than increasing overall fee levels.

The consultation signals Qatar’s intention to future-proof its spectrum pricing regime while maintaining a stable, investment-friendly regulatory environment. Of particular significance are:

• The explicit regulatory treatment of direct-to-device satellite connectivity, a rapidly emerging segment with implications for both mobile network operators and satellite providers.
• The extension of spectrum pricing principles into millimetre-wave and sub-THz bands, laying regulatory groundwork for advanced satellite deployments and early 6G discussions.
• The continued use of administrative and incentive-based pricing, rather than market-rate spectrum fees, reinforcing Qatar’s policy objective of encouraging network deployment and service quality.

In parallel, the consultation highlights a broader trend: countries with significant market potential are likely to consider market-based assignment mechanisms, including auctions, for high-demand satellite bands such as the L-band and S-band.

As demand for D2D and other mobile-satellite services increases, these bands may be viewed as commercially valuable national assets, with implications for access costs, competition, and long-term investment strategies for satellite operators.

Stakeholders are invited to submit responses to the consultation by 19 February 2026. Following the consultation, the CRA is expected to issue a new Ministerial Decision confirming the final spectrum fees framework and the effective date of any revised fees.

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