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 framework, 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.
Modernization axes and fundamental transformations
The proposed document focused on four key strategic pillars, all aimed at restructuring the regulatory framework and clarifying its overall objectives. The proposed amendments included fundamental changes to the structure of the National Frequency Allocation Table, encompassing updated international and national footnotes and the addition of detailed information on the nature of uses to mitigate potential interference. The Authority also introduced a new column in its proposal, titled "User Access Category," which aims to clearly define the entities entitled to use each frequency band, whether they are governmental, military, or civilian bodies, or commercial entities and individuals.
National context and importance of natural resources
This regulatory move aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes digital transformation. The radio spectrum is a limited natural resource and a fundamental enabler for all modern wireless technologies. These updates are of paramount importance given the rapid adoption of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and smart cities, necessitating precise regulation to ensure the optimal use of this national resource and prevent waste or interference that could hinder the growth of digital services.
Service Classification and International Compliance
The draft redefines radio services precisely, dividing them into primary services, which enjoy full protection from interference, and secondary services, which are not entitled to protection from primary services, even if they precede them in usage time. The Authority affirmed the Kingdom's commitment to the regulations issued by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), updating national distributions to align with the outcomes of World Radiocommunication Conferences. This preserves the Kingdom's regulatory and leadership position within "Region 1" of the ITU's geographical divisions and enhances the reliability of the country's technology investment environment.
Expected impact and application date
This update is expected to enable next-generation technologies, including 5G and 6G networks, as well as support the Kingdom's growing space sector. The plan clearly defines financial responsibilities, stipulating that spectrum users will bear the cost of modifying or replacing their existing systems to comply with the new standards in case of conflict. The Authority has set a timeframe for implementation, with the revised plan scheduled to take effect ninety days after its official adoption, thus giving stakeholders ample time to adapt their systems to serve the digital economy and national security.
