The document published by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia presents a public consultation on regulatory guidelines for device-to-device (D2D) communications and the update of the regulatory framework for non-terrestrial networks (NTN).

This consultation, open from October 13 to November 13, 2025, aims to gather opinions from all public, private, and individual sectors to consolidate the national strategy on spectrum use and satellite connectivity.

In this context, the consultation seeks to understand the impact of D2D technologies, which enable direct connection between devices such as standard mobile phones and satellites or aerial platforms without requiring additional equipment. This innovation has the potential to expand coverage in rural, maritime, or underserved areas, strengthen emergency communications, and contribute to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on digital transformation and bridging the connectivity gap.

WHOM DOES IT IMPACT?

The direct impact is on national telecommunications operators, international satellite service providers, mobile device manufacturers, regulatory authorities, IoT developers, airlines, shipping companies, and technology companies.

CONCLUSION:

The CST public consultation marks a turning point in Saudi telecommunications policy by promoting the convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks under a unified regulatory framework. Its implementation will expand digital coverage throughout the country, improve communications resilience, attract foreign technological investment, and position the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in the regulation of space networks and D2D communications within the 2030 global connectivity agenda.