The UAE's telecoms regulator is looking at new regulations that could pave the way for satellite operators such as Starlink to begin operations in the country.
The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority said on its website that it wanted feedback for regulations to "regularise the current resale of satellite services".
Once the TDRA finalises specifics for what it describes as a "category B" licence, the door would be opened for many businesses and entities to sell connectivity devices and services – paving the way for resellers of low-earth-orbit satellite internet communications devices such as Starlink.
Under current regulations, only certain UAE entities with the current telecoms licence are permitted to provide these services.
According to SpaceX, operator of Starlink, the service is "pending regulatory approval" in the UAE.
A document posted this year to the TDRA's website showed that Starlink was granted a regulatory licence in 2024 that will last about 10 years for “maritime satellite internet services”.
In the Middle East, Starlink is available in Qatar, Yemen, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan and Israel, and is billed as bridging the connectivity gap in remote and desert locations.
When it was introduced in Yemen, Starlink was said to be a way to break the Houthis' monopoly over telecom services.
Jimmy Grewal, executive director Dubai-based marine electronics company Elcome International, said he was excited about the the opportunities presented during the public comment period.
"The TDRA’s open consultation is a welcome step that brings clarity to a fast-moving market and will accelerate the safe rollout of next-generation satellite connectivity across the UAE," he said.
Mr Grewal said a detailed framework for resellers like Elcome will strengthen options, resilience and productivity for government, maritime, aviation and offshore energy sector workers seeking internet and communications connectivity.
He said he was also prepared for the possibility of the regulations opening the door for Starlink access in the UAE.
"As one of the first and largest Starlink resellers in the world, Elcome is keen to bring the benefits of Starlink to our home market once the new regulatory framework is in place," Mr Grewal said.
The regulatory body is accepting public consultation until September 25.
Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
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The nine articles of the 50-Year Charter
1. Dubai silk road
2. A geo-economic map for Dubai
3. First virtual commercial city
4. A central education file for every citizen
5. A doctor to every citizen
6. Free economic and creative zones in universities
7. Self-sufficiency in Dubai homes
8. Co-operative companies in various sectors
9: Annual growth in philanthropy
Where to buy
Limited-edition art prints of The Sofa Series: Sultani can be acquired from Reem El Mutwalli at www.reemelmutwalli.com
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Abu Dhabi
Umm Al Emarat Park
Yas Gateway Park
Delma Park
Al Bateen beach
Saadiyaat beach
The Corniche
Zayed Sports City
Dubai
Kite Beach
Zabeel Park
Al Nahda Pond Park
Mushrif Park
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Al Mamzar Beach Park
Al Qudrah Lakes
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The specs
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This article is part of a guide on where to live in the UAE. Our reporters will profile some of the country’s most desirable districts, provide an estimate of rental prices and introduce you to some of the residents who call each area home.
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How to wear a kandura
Dos
- Wear the right fabric for the right season and occasion
- Always ask for the dress code if you don’t know
- Wear a white kandura, white ghutra / shemagh (headwear) and black shoes for work
- Wear 100 per cent cotton under the kandura as most fabrics are polyester
Don’ts
- Wear hamdania for work, always wear a ghutra and agal
- Buy a kandura only based on how it feels; ask questions about the fabric and understand what you are buying
