In a strategic move aimed at solidifying Saudi Arabia's position as a key player in the global space economy, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CSTC) a comprehensive set of regulations and guidelines for the space sector through its "Istilaa" platform. This step is part of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to regulate this vital sector, protect national interests, and create an attractive investment environment characterized by transparency and clarity.
Strategic context: Space as a pillar of the future economy
These regulations cannot be viewed in isolation from the major transformations the Kingdom is undergoing under Vision 2030, where the space sector is considered a cornerstone of the future innovation-driven economy. Since the renaming of the authority to include "Space," the Kingdom has been working to align its legislation with international standards, thereby enhancing confidence among both international and domestic investors. A robust regulatory framework is the cornerstone for enabling the peaceful use of space and ensuring the sustainability of space activities, reflecting the maturity of Saudi Arabia's experience in this field.
Regulatory document details: Licensing and oversight
The authority explained that the new document includes detailed guidelines covering all aspects of space activities, from licensing and permitting requirements to the mechanisms for transferring them. The authority has established strict standards to ensure seriousness and efficiency, emphasizing that:
- Permit independence: Obtaining a license from the Authority does not exempt the operator from obtaining the necessary approvals from other relevant government agencies.
- Unconditional assignment is prohibited: The license may not be assigned or transferred to a third party (including in cases of merger and acquisition) except with the prior approval of the Authority, to ensure that the new entity meets the security and financial conditions and standards.
- Financial obligations: Payment of the financial fee is a prerequisite for considering applications, and it is a non-refundable fee regardless of the outcome of the application.
Security and safety: a top priority in space
The regulations have placed great emphasis on security and safety aspects, relying on global best practices to reduce the risks of space debris and orbital accidents. In this context, the authority has defined specific obligations for operators, including:
- Immediate reporting of any incidents involving space objects, whether in orbit or during re-entry into the atmosphere.
- Monitoring and reporting to the Authority any celestial objects or space debris that may pose a threat to Earth or to orbital operations.
- The deliberate crashing or collision of space objects with each other is prohibited to ensure the safety of the space environment.
- Provide clear plans to mitigate risks in the event of a possibility of uncontrolled space objects re-entering the atmosphere.
Authority powers and regulatory flexibility
The new regulations granted the Authority broad powers to intervene when necessary, including suspending or revoking licenses if the public interest so requires, or to protect national security and public safety. The Authority also authorized the issuance of "no objection certificates" to facilitate investor procedures with other entities, while emphasizing its right to review and evaluate decisions periodically.
These regulations represent a qualitative shift in the governance of the Saudi space sector, as they balance encouraging innovation and commercial investment with preserving national sovereignty and adhering to international treaties related to the safety and sustainability of outer space.
