By: NewsDesk Report
stc
Group has entered into a 10-year commercial agreement with AST SpaceMobile to
provide space-based cellular broadband services across Saudi Arabia and select
markets in the Middle East and Africa. The deal, valued at $175 million in
prepayment and long-term revenue commitments, marks AST SpaceMobile’s first
major regional partnership in the MENA region.
Through
the agreement, AST SpaceMobile will integrate its space-based 4G and 5G network
with stc’s terrestrial infrastructure to deliver direct-to-device mobile
connectivity, enabling voice and broadband data services on standard
smartphones without the need for specialized hardware or software.
To
facilitate deployment, AST SpaceMobile will establish three ground gateways and
a Network Operations Center in Riyadh, which will serve as a regional hub for
managing network operations and ensuring service quality.
The
collaboration is designed to extend high-speed coverage to remote and
underserved areas, advancing Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation agenda and
supporting the goals of Vision 2030. The partnership also positions stc as the
first operator in the MENA region to adopt direct-to-device satellite broadband
technology, reinforcing its commitment to expanding digital access, enhancing
network resilience, and investing in next-generation Non-Terrestrial Networks.
Commercial
rollout of the service is expected to begin in late 2026, pending regulatory
approval from the Communications, Space and Technology Commission and other
regional authorities.
