MUSCAT: Oman has secured a strategic win by retaining regulatory control over the prime 73.5° East geostationary orbital slot after receiving an extension from the International Telecommunication Union. This success follows the Sultanate’s commitment to launch a temporary satellite by December 2025 and sign a contract for a permanent Ka-band high-throughput satellite before the end of this year, demonstrating renewed momentum behind the country’s delayed national satellite communications programme. The orbital slot is regarded as one of major economic and geopolitical importance because it provides potential coverage over large regions across the Middle East, South Asia, and Central Asia.
The use of the 73.5° East slot opens lucrative prospects in broadband connectivity, broadcasting, and advanced data services for Oman. Market demand across the covered regions has surged in recent years as governments, businesses and consumers increasingly rely on high-speed satellite communications to support digital transformation. Oman’s planned high-throughput satellite, scheduled for full deployment by 2028, is expected to be equipped with cutting-edge Ka-band technology capable of delivering substantial capacity with strong service reliability. These capabilities could help propel national ambitions to develop the space sector as a key pillar of economic diversification and technological self-sufficiency.
Securing this orbital slot reinforces Oman’s international status as an emerging space and telecommunications player. Having faced delays in executing its earlier satellite plans due to financial constraints and shifting priorities, the country now appears to be taking stronger steps toward establishing indigenous space-based infrastructure. Retaining this specific slot is significant because unused or underutilised positions can be reassigned by the ITU, making it critical for nations to demonstrate genuine progress and operational readiness. Oman’s proactive commitments reflect a long-term vision to develop a sustainable presence in strategic orbits.
Looking ahead, Omani authorities have signalled active engagement with industry partners to ensure timely execution of the satellite rollout plan. Contracts for satellite construction, launch services, and ground infrastructure will need to be secured rapidly to meet ITU deadlines, while policy frameworks will be aligned to foster investment in downstream applications. By leveraging the 73.5° East asset, Oman can potentially offer high-quality broadband services to underserved markets and develop value-added satellite-driven solutions in sectors such as disaster management, maritime, aviation, and e-government, reinforcing both economic resilience and regional influence.
