Why has the UAE given Elon Musk’s Starlink a 10-year licence?
Abu Dhabi: The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has granted Starlink Satellite Communications LLC a 10-year General Space Services Licence to establish, operate and manage a public satellite communications network and provide broadband satellite internet services in the country.
The licence, granted to Elon Musk’s company on August 28, will add satellite-based connectivity to the UAE’s existing digital infrastructure, which includes fibre-optic and 5G networks.
According to the TDRA, the move is intended to diversify connectivity options, strengthen network resilience and ensure continuity of telecommunications services in different circumstances.
Connectivity for key sectors
The licence covers services for consumers as well as businesses and government entities. It also includes satellite connectivity for the maritime and aviation sectors.
The regulator said Starlink’s services could support several critical industries, including maritime and air transport, energy, logistics and emergency response.
TDRA Director General Majed Sultan Al Mesmar described the licence as a significant development for the UAE’s telecommunications sector.
He said the move reflected the country’s efforts to adopt advanced technologies while maintaining a regulatory environment that encourages innovation and investment.
According to Al Mesmar, satellite internet services will provide additional connectivity options, improve network resilience and business continuity, and support the UAE’s ambitions to become a regional and global hub for telecommunications and the digital economy.
Focus on resilience and emergency response
The TDRA said the introduction of satellite broadband could provide additional connectivity options in areas where alternative services are required.
It could also strengthen the country’s ability to maintain communications during emergencies and crises, the authority said.
The move is aligned with the objectives of the UAE Digital Agenda and the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.
The regulator said the entry of satellite broadband services could also expand consumer choice, encourage competition and contribute to improvements in service quality and customer experience.
Starlink to operate under UAE regulations
Despite the 10-year licence, Starlink’s operations will remain subject to the UAE’s regulatory and technical requirements.
These include rules relating to security, information infrastructure protection, service quality, reliability and continuity, consumer rights and data privacy.
Starlink will also be required to comply with spectrum-use regulations and technical coordination requirements set by the relevant authorities.
Al Mesmar said the TDRA would continue to ensure that emerging technologies deliver practical benefits to users while maintaining high standards of security, reliability and consumer protection.