In a strategic move aimed at strengthening Saudi Arabia's position among the leading nations in the space economy, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CSTC) a comprehensive regulatory document through its "Istilaa" platform. This initiative aims to establish a clear legal and legislative framework governing space activities, protecting national interests, and fostering an attractive investment environment characterized by transparency and fairness, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Context of the shift towards a space economy
This regulatory move comes at a time when the Kingdom is witnessing a qualitative transformation in the space sector, where space is no longer merely a field for scientific exploration, but has become a significant economic driver. Through these regulations, the Authority is working to bridge the legislative gap and provide a secure environment for international and local operators, thereby enhancing opportunities to attract foreign direct investment in satellite technologies, launch services, and various space applications.
Details of licenses and financial obligations
The authority explained that the new document includes detailed guidelines for conducting space activities, including:
- Licensing and authorization provisions: Defining the requirements for obtaining them and the mechanisms for transfer or assignment.
- Financial compensation: The applicant is obligated to pay the fees due for studying the application before starting it, with the emphasis that these fees are non-refundable whether it is approved or rejected.
- Unconditional assignment is prohibited: The license may not be assigned or transferred (including in cases of mergers and acquisitions) except with the prior approval of the Authority, to ensure that the new entity meets the security and financial conditions and standards.
The regulations also stressed that obtaining the Authority’s license does not exempt the operator from the need to obtain other required permits from relevant government agencies in the Kingdom, thus ensuring the integration of government roles.
Space safety and security standards
The document paid close attention to security and safety aspects, with the authority imposing strict obligations on operators and licensees, most notably:
- Immediate reporting of any incidents involving space objects, whether in orbit, during launch, or during return.
- Monitoring and reporting to the Authority any celestial objects or space debris that may pose a threat to Earth or to orbital operations.
- Banning the deliberate crashing of space objects or their collision with each other to reduce environmental and orbital risks.
- Providing clear plans to mitigate the risks associated with the re-entry of space objects into the atmosphere, and identifying potential impact sites.
Regulatory Authority Powers
The regulations grant the Authority broad powers to ensure compliance, including the right to suspend or revoke licenses in cases of threats to public health, safety, or national security. The Authority also reserves the right to reassess and amend its decisions in light of new developments, reflecting the flexibility of the legislative framework and its ability to adapt to the rapid advancements in the global space sector.
