Dubai: The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has granted Starlink a 10-year General Satellite Services Licence, authorising the company to provide satellite broadband internet services across the country.The licence allows Starlink to establish, operate and manage a public satellite telecommunications network in the UAE, subject to approved regulatory and technical frameworks and the fulfilment of necessary requirements, according to an announcement by the UAE Government Media Office on Friday. The media office added that the move adds a satellite layer to the UAE’s national digital infrastructure, complementing existing fibre-optic and 5G networks.Who will Starlink services cover?Under the licence, Starlink will be able to provide services to individuals, businesses and government entities.The licence will also cover satellite connectivity for the maritime and aviation sectors, expanding the range of connectivity options available in the country.TDRA said the move is expected to strengthen the resilience of the UAE’s digital infrastructure and improve service continuity, while supporting vital sectors and emergency response capabilities.The regulator added that services would be required to meet standards relating to security, reliability and consumer rights protection.
