Satellite Networks

Oman to enhance satellite and submarine cable connectivity

Recent announcements from Oman underline the country’s commitment to expanding both satellite and submarine cable connectivity in the coming years.

A new partnership has been announced that brings together satellite and AI company Oman Lens and China’s space computing and AI satellite technology Star Vision Aerospace under two cooperation agreements.

Under the first agreement, the two companies will establish a five-year programme to sponsor 30 Omanis for master’s and doctoral studies in China, train 1,000 specialists in space sciences and advanced technologies, and establish a joint Space AI Laboratory.

The second agreement covers satellite development, launch and operation in two phases. The first phase includes seven satellites; a second constellation will be considered based on the outcomes of the initial phase.

A key component of the agreement is the establishment of an assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) centre in Oman to strengthen local technical infrastructure, facilitate technology and knowledge transfer, and train Omani professionals in satellite engineering and operations.

The partnership will also support the gradual development of local manufacturing capabilities. The agreements are expected to expand the use of satellite data and artificial intelligence across several key sectors, including Earth observation, maritime surveillance, natural resource management, environmental monitoring and urban planning.

The Oman Lens partnership with Star Vision began in 2023 and has already delivered the launch of the OL-1 satellite in 2024, the establishment of a ground station and the development of applications in AI and satellite image analysis.

In addition, the number of submarine cable systems landing in the Sultanate of Oman is expected to rise from 19 to 31 by 2030, with contracts signed or already in force for all 12 additional systems, according to comments made by Sohail Qadir, Chief Executive Officer of Zain Omantel International (ZOI), the wholesale telecoms joint venture between Omantel and Kuwait’s Zain Group, during the Middle East 2026 Global Carrier Community Meeting (GCCM) gala dinner.

Qadir said demand for digital infrastructure had already outgrown existing capacity in Oman. Equinix data centres in Barka and Salalah were full, while Oman Data Park was expanding its facilities.

New data centres are also under construction, including a 10 MW facility in Salalah and another site in Muscat. Omantel has invested in more than 20 submarine cable systems.



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