Starlink gets 10-year UAE licence to provide satellite internet services
New approval covers residents, companies, government entities, ships and aircraft
ABU DHABI – The UAE has granted Starlink Satellite Communications LLC a 10-year General Space Services Licence, clearing the way for the company to establish, operate and manage a public satellite communications network in the country.
The licence authorises Starlink to provide broadband satellite internet services under the regulatory and technical frameworks approved by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The move introduces a space-based layer to the UAE’s digital infrastructure, alongside existing fibre-optic and 5G networks.
The approval is set to broaden the range of internet and connectivity options available in the UAE, while adding another communications channel that can support network resilience and continuity. The services will extend beyond individual users, with businesses and government entities also covered by the licence, along with satellite connectivity for the maritime and aviation sectors.
Starlink in UAE
Under the 10-year licence, Starlink will be able to provide satellite internet services to individuals, businesses and government organisations once the required regulatory and technical standards have been met. The approval also provides for connectivity services supporting ships and aircraft, widening the potential use of satellite broadband across sectors that rely on communications while operating away from fixed terrestrial infrastructure.
منحت تدرا شركة «ستارلينك لخدمات الاتصالات الفضائية» رخصة خدمات فضائية عامة لمدة عشر سنوات لتقديم خدمات الإنترنت الفضائي عريض النطاق في دولة الإمارات، تشمل الأفراد وقطاع الأعمال والجهات الحكومية والقطاعين البحري والجوي.
— تدرا ???????? TDRA (@tdrauae) August 28, 2026
خطوة تعزز تنوع شبكات الاتصالات ومرونة البنية التحتية… pic.twitter.com/0y5575o04L
TDRA said the additional technology would complement conventional telecommunications networks and help diversify the UAE’s connectivity infrastructure. Satellite networks can provide an alternative communications channel when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable or disrupted, offering an additional layer of connectivity during emergencies and other exceptional circumstances.
The authority said the move could strengthen the resilience, readiness and continuity of national digital infrastructure under different conditions. Critical sectors identified as potential beneficiaries include maritime and aviation transport, energy, logistics and emergency response.
The licensing decision also reflects the UAE’s regulatory approach towards emerging technologies. TDRA said its framework is designed to remain flexible and forward-looking, allowing new connectivity technologies to be introduced while supporting user choice, competition and investment.
The authority said the availability of advanced satellite internet services is expected to contribute to service quality, customer experience and continuity of telecommunications services. It also said the framework would support the objectives of the UAE Digital Agenda and the “We the UAE 2031” vision, while reinforcing the country’s position as a destination for global satellite system operators.
Regulatory safeguards
TDRA Director-General Majed Sultan Al Mesmar described the licence as a significant addition to the UAE’s telecommunications sector and said it reflected the country’s commitment to advanced technologies and a flexible regulatory environment supporting innovation and investment.
He said advanced satellite internet services would expand connectivity options, strengthen network resilience and business continuity, and support the UAE’s ambition to remain a regional and global hub for telecommunications and the digital economy.
Al Mesmar also said TDRA would ensure that emerging technologies deliver benefits to customers while maintaining standards for security, reliability and consumer protection.
Services covered by the licence will remain subject to the UAE’s approved regulatory and technical requirements. These include rules covering security and the protection of information infrastructure, service quality, reliability and continuity, consumer rights and data privacy.
Starlink will also be required to comply with spectrum-use regulations and technical coordination requirements involving relevant authorities. TDRA said these conditions are an essential part of licensing decisions of this nature, balancing access to advanced technologies with safeguards for network security and consumer rights.
The authority said the licence is expected to support digital transformation, develop connectivity solutions for vital sectors and areas requiring additional options, and strengthen the UAE’s readiness to respond to emergencies and crises. The approval gives Starlink a formal regulatory route to expand satellite broadband operations in one of the region’s most digitally connected markets.