In a strategic move aimed at strengthening the digital infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the Communications and Space Technology Commission (CITC) has released a draft of the updated National Spectrum Plan through the government's online platform, "Istilaa." This initiative seeks to engage the public, specialists, and relevant stakeholders in shaping the new regulatory changes, ensuring alignment of local policies with the latest international standards. This will enhance the efficient use of limited natural resources and reinforce transparency in the management of the Kingdom's communications and technology sector.
The context of digital transformation and the importance of the frequency spectrum
The radio spectrum is the lifeblood of wireless communications and a scarce natural resource sought after by various vital sectors. This update comes at a time when the Kingdom is witnessing unprecedented technological advancements as part of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on building a robust digital economy. Historically, the Kingdom has worked to develop its regulations to keep pace with technological leaps from 3G to 5G and beyond. This new regulation is expected to pave the way for future technologies such as 6G and the Internet of Things (IoT), further solidifying the Kingdom's position as a leading regional hub for technology and innovation.
Key features of the proposed updates
The proposed document focused on four key strategic pillars, all aimed at restructuring the organizational framework and clarifying its overall objectives. Among the most significant and fundamental changes included in the draft are:
- Updating the National Frequency Allocation Table: This included modifying the international and national footnotes, and adding detailed information on the nature of the uses to resolve potential interferences.
- Introducing the “User Access Category” classification: The Authority added a separate column that clearly identifies the entities entitled to use each frequency band, whether they are governmental entities (military and civilian), commercial entities, or individuals, thus removing regulatory ambiguity.
- A precise definition of radio services: Services were divided into “primary” services, which have the right to full protection from interference, and “secondary” services, which do not have the right to claim protection, even if they preceded them in time usage.
International alignment and adherence to standards
The Authority affirmed in its document the Kingdom's full commitment to the regulations issued by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). National distributions have been updated to align with the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conferences, thus preserving the Kingdom's regulatory status within "Region 1" of the ITU's geographical divisions. This alignment is essential to ensure that imported equipment and systems operate efficiently within the Kingdom without causing harmful interference with neighboring countries, thereby enhancing the stability of the telecommunications system regionally and internationally.
Financial responsibilities and application deadline
The plan clearly defines financial responsibilities, emphasizing that spectrum users will bear the cost of modifying or replacing their existing systems to comply with the new standards in case of conflict, thus ensuring an operational environment free from harmful interference. Regarding the timeline, the authority has set a deadline for implementation; the revised plan is scheduled to take effect ninety days its official adoption, giving stakeholders ample time to adjust their technical and legal standing.
The Authority concluded its document by emphasizing that the National Plan is the only regulatory reference that achieves a balance between different needs and protects vital services from interference, thereby supporting both the digital economy and national security.
