Agreement paves way for space-based mobile broadband across Middle East and NAfrica

Agreement paves way for space-based mobile broadband across Middle East and NAfrica
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 30, 2025

AST SpaceMobile and stc group have signed a ten-year commercial contract to deliver satellite direct-to-device mobile broadband throughout Saudi Arabia and selected areas in the Middle East and Africa. Under the terms, stc commits $175 million in prepayments for future services and sets a substantial long-term revenue goal.

This partnership will connect AST SpaceMobile's satellite cellular system with stc's terrestrial mobile network, broadening 4G and 5G coverage for standard mobile devices. No special device upgrades or software are required, targeting consumers, enterprise users, and government sectors. Implementation includes three ground gateways and a Network Operations Center in Riyadh aimed at supporting seamless mobile access and reliable network quality.

AST SpaceMobile's service will provide connectivity in remote and underserved locations, supporting economic and educational advancement by expanding mobile access. Commercial rollout is slated for the fourth quarter of 2026 pending regulatory approval from the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) in Saudi Arabia and other authorities within the fifteen-country operational footprint.

"The stc group regional leadership and commitment to innovation, combined with our pioneering space-based network, will create a paradigm shift in how people connect" said Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile. "We are pleased to partner with stc as the first regional operator to collaborate with us on this groundbreaking initiative. This partnership is another major leap forward to deliver on the promise of truly universal mobile broadband coverage, bridging the digital divide and empowering millions with reliable and easy-to-use connectivity."

Olayan Alwetaid, CEO of stc group, stated: "By expanding coverage by using the latest innovations in telecommunications technology, stc and AST SpaceMobile are bridging connectivity gaps and ensuring no one is left out of the digital future. It's a step forward in our ambition to lead in digital infrastructure and deliver world-class connectivity access to everyone, no matter where they are."

Once launched, stc group will become the first regional cellular operator to adopt satellite direct-to-device broadband, extending its network reach and reinforcing its role as a digital enabler in the region.

Commercial services depend on regulatory and licensing approvals and are anticipated to begin in late 2026.