In a strategic move aimed at strengthening Saudi Arabia's position as a leading regional and international hub for the space economy, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CSTC) has released a comprehensive regulatory document through its "Istilaa" platform, outlining the framework for the construction and operation of spaceports. This step aims to regulate this vital sector and control its activities, both within the Kingdom and in designated launch areas, ensuring the safety of space operations and protecting national interests.
Context of the shift towards a space economy
These regulations cannot be viewed in isolation from the significant progress the Kingdom is making within the framework of Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on the space sector as a key pillar of the future non-oil economy. Following the Kingdom's success in sending astronauts to the International Space Station and establishing the Saudi Space Agency, the focus now shifts to developing the ground infrastructure. These regulations aim to create a legislative environment that attracts both foreign and domestic investment, paving the way for private sector companies to participate in the space race, not only in satellite development but also in the construction of launch platforms, which are essential for reaching orbit.
Separating construction and operation: a precise organizational structure
The Authority clarified in its document that the new regulations clearly distinguish between "construction" and "operation" activities, requiring a separate license for each. The holder of the first license is referred to as the "spaceport builder," while the second is designated as the "spaceport operator." However, the Authority demonstrated regulatory flexibility, allowing a single entity to hold both licenses if this serves market and national interests, reflecting a desire to streamline procedures for serious investors.
The 12-month requirement and seriousness in implementation
To ensure the seriousness of project implementation and avoid issuing licenses without actual work, the Authority has set a strict condition requiring construction companies to begin work on the spaceport within 12 months of the license being granted. This condition is crucial in accelerating the development of the Kingdom's space infrastructure and ensures that licenses are awarded to entities with the technical and financial capacity for immediate implementation.
Safety standards and international obligations
The regulations did not overlook security and environmental aspects, requiring comprehensive environmental impact assessments and thorough risk analysis, including debris scenarios and flight paths. Operators were also obligated to ensure the Kingdom's compliance with its international commitments, such as agreements on the rescue of astronauts and the return of launched objects. The minimum operating license period was set at 15 years, a sufficient duration to guarantee returns on investment in large-scale projects of this nature. A comprehensive operational manual, updated annually, was also mandated to ensure the highest safety standards.
Expected impact locally and regionally
This regulatory framework is expected to attract major international space companies to establish their operations in the Kingdom, particularly given its strategic geographic location which provides safe launch routes. It will also foster the localization of advanced technologies and create high-quality job opportunities for Saudi nationals in the fields of engineering, science, and space, thus solidifying Saudi Arabia's position as a key player in the spacefaring world.
