Riyadh Hosts Global Forum on Non-Terrestrial Networks

Riyadh, November 24, 2024 — Under the patronage of Minister of Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) Eng. Abdullah AlSwaha, the “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024 will commence tomorrow in Riyadh. Organized by CST in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the forum is themed “Shaping the Future of Converged Connectivity.” The two-day event will bring together global leaders, experts, policymakers, researchers, investors, and regulators to address the rapid advancements in telecommunications and explore how non-terrestrial networks (NTN) can provide digital solutions to serve humanity, connect remote areas, and foster research and innovation.

Have you ever wondered how a single forum in Riyadh could shape the future of global connectivity? The “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024 is not just another industry gathering; it represents a pivotal moment in the Kingdom’s journey to become a global hub for telecommunications and space technology. As the world increasingly relies on seamless digital infrastructure, this forum underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leading the conversation on next-generation networks, from 5G to 6G, and beyond. With the support of the Saudi Space Agency (SSA) and Neo Space Group (NSG), the event highlights the collaborative spirit that defines Vision 2030.

Context and Background

Why does the convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks matter now more than ever? The rapid evolution of telecommunications has created unprecedented opportunities and challenges. As the demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity grows, traditional terrestrial networks alone cannot meet the needs of remote and underserved regions. Non-terrestrial networks, which include satellite constellations, high-altitude platform stations, and unmanned aerial vehicles, offer a promising solution by extending coverage to the most isolated corners of the globe. The “Connecting the World from the Skies” forum, first launched in 2022 in collaboration with the ITU, attracted over 3,000 participants and provided valuable insights into NTN technologies. Building on that success, the 2024 edition aims to deepen the dialogue and accelerate the deployment of these transformative technologies.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership in this domain is not accidental. The Kingdom has long recognized the strategic importance of information and communication technology as a driver of economic diversification and social development. Under the umbrella of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in digital infrastructure, regulatory modernization, and innovation ecosystems. The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) has been at the forefront of these efforts, fostering partnerships with international organizations like the ITU and spearheading initiatives that position the Kingdom as a testbed for cutting-edge connectivity solutions. The forum serves as a platform to showcase these achievements and to align global efforts toward a more connected and inclusive future.

Key Details

What specific topics will dominate the discussions at this year’s forum? The agenda is packed with sessions on seamless connectivity, regulatory advancements, NTN applications in the Internet of Things (IoT), and the convergence of 5G and 6G technologies. Participants will delve into the future of lunar communications, the emerging space economy, hybrid connectivity models, and the critical need to ensure the security and sustainability of NTN networks. These discussions are not merely theoretical; they are aimed at producing actionable strategies that can be implemented across industries and borders. CST will also present results from recent NTN trials, offering a glimpse into the practical applications of these technologies and their potential to revolutionize sectors such as agriculture, logistics, healthcare, and disaster response.

Who will be speaking, and why does their participation matter? The forum will feature panel discussions and presentations from a diverse array of global leaders, experts, policymakers, researchers, investors, and regulators. Their collective expertise spans information and communication technology, space, and radio spectrum management. By bringing together such a wide range of stakeholders, the event facilitates cross-sector collaboration and ensures that the conversations are inclusive and forward-looking. A highlight of the forum will be the announcement of the winners of the second edition of the IEEE Competition on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G, held in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This competition underscores the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering innovation in the field of NTNs.

How can interested parties participate? CST invites experts and stakeholders to register and learn more about the event via the official website: https://connectingfromtheskies.com/. The forum is hosted in partnership with the Saudi Space Agency (SSA) as the future partner and Neo Space Group (NSG) as a bronze sponsor, reflecting a whole-of-ecosystem approach to advancing NTN technologies.

International and Regional Impact

Why should the international community pay close attention to this forum? The outcomes of the “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024 are likely to resonate far beyond the Middle East. As nations worldwide grapple with the digital divide, the solutions discussed in Riyadh could provide a blueprint for bridging connectivity gaps in remote and rural areas. The collaboration between CST and the ITU, a specialized agency of the United Nations, lends global legitimacy to the event and ensures that the discussions are aligned with international development goals. Moreover, the involvement of the Saudi Space Agency signals the Kingdom’s growing role in the space sector, which is poised to become a major contributor to the global economy in the coming decades.

What does this mean for regional cooperation? The forum serves as a catalyst for partnerships across the Middle East and beyond. By convening stakeholders from different countries, it fosters the exchange of knowledge and best practices, which is essential for the harmonious development of NTN ecosystems. The presence of investors and regulators is particularly significant, as it helps to create an enabling environment for investment and innovation. For Saudi Arabia, hosting such a high-profile event reinforces its position as a regional leader in technology and a key player in shaping the future of global connectivity.

Economic and Strategic Significance

How does the forum align with Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification goals? The telecommunications and space sectors are integral to Vision 2030, which seeks to reduce the Kingdom’s dependence on oil and create a knowledge-based economy. By advancing NTN technologies, Saudi Arabia aims to stimulate innovation, attract foreign investment, and create high-skilled jobs. The forum provides a platform for showcasing the Kingdom’s progress in these areas and for attracting global partners who can contribute to the development of a robust digital economy. Furthermore, the focus on eco-friendly telecom infrastructure and sustainable NTN networks reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental stewardship, a key pillar of Vision 2030.

What strategic advantages does Saudi Arabia gain from leading in NTN? Non-terrestrial networks are not just about connectivity; they are about sovereignty, security, and economic resilience. By developing indigenous capabilities in NTN, Saudi Arabia can ensure that its critical infrastructure is secure and resilient, while also positioning itself as a global hub for space-based services. The forum’s emphasis on regulatory frameworks and standardization will help shape international norms in a way that benefits the Kingdom and its partners. As the space economy grows, Saudi Arabia’s early investments and strategic partnerships are likely to yield significant returns, both economically and geopolitically.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does the “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024 exemplify the spirit of Vision 2030? At its core, Vision 2030 is about transforming Saudi Arabia into a diversified, innovative, and globally connected nation. The forum embodies this vision by bringing together the world’s brightest minds to solve some of the most pressing challenges in connectivity. It showcases the Kingdom’s leadership in technology and space, its commitment to international cooperation, and its determination to create a better future for all. Through initiatives like this, Saudi Arabia is not only shaping its own destiny but also contributing to the global common good.

What can we expect next? The conversations and collaborations that begin in Riyadh will undoubtedly lead to new breakthroughs and partnerships. As CST, SSA, and NSG continue to work with international partners like the ITU and IEEE, the Kingdom is poised to play an increasingly influential role in the global telecommunications and space landscape. The “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024 is more than an event; it is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s vision, ambition, and its unwavering commitment to connecting the world from the skies.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024?

A1. It is a global forum organized by Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), focused on non-terrestrial networks and converged connectivity.

Q2. When and where will the forum take place?

A2. The forum will commence on November 25, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the patronage of Eng. Abdullah AlSwaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology.

Q3. Who is organizing the forum?

A3. The forum is organized by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), with support from the Saudi Space Agency (SSA) and Neo Space Group (NSG).

Q4. What is the theme of the forum?

A4. The theme is “Shaping the Future of Converged Connectivity,” emphasizing the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks to enhance global digital infrastructure.

Q5. What are non-terrestrial networks (NTN)?

A5. NTN refers to communication networks that operate beyond traditional ground-based infrastructure, including satellites, high-altitude platforms, and drones, to provide connectivity in remote or underserved areas.

Q6. What are the main objectives of the forum?

A6. The forum aims to address rapid advancements in telecommunications, provide digital solutions for humanity, connect remote areas, foster research and innovation in NTN, and enhance regulatory frameworks.

Q7. What key topics will be discussed?

A7. Topics include seamless connectivity, regulatory advancements, NTN applications in IoT, 5G and 6G convergence, lunar communications, space economies, hybrid connectivity models, and NTN security and sustainability.

Q8. Who will attend the forum?

A8. Global leaders, experts, policymakers, researchers, investors, and regulators from the information and communication technology, space, and radio spectrum sectors will participate.

Q9. Will there be any competitions or awards?

A9. Yes, CST will announce the winners of the second edition of the IEEE Competition on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G, held in collaboration with the IEEE.

Q10. What were the outcomes of the first edition?

A10. The first edition, held in 2022 in collaboration with ITU, attracted over 3,000 participants and provided valuable insights through discussions and keynote presentations on NTNs.

Q11. What is the role of the Saudi Space Agency in the forum?

A11. The Saudi Space Agency is the future partner of the forum, contributing to the advancement of space-based connectivity and supporting Saudi Arabia’s space ambitions.

Q12. What is Neo Space Group’s involvement?

A12. Neo Space Group (NSG) is a bronze sponsor of the forum, demonstrating its commitment to the development of non-terrestrial networks and the space economy.

Q13. How can one register for the forum?

A13. Experts and stakeholders can register and learn more about the event via the official website: https://connectingfromtheskies.com/.

Q14. What is the significance of the forum for Saudi Arabia?

A14. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s leadership in telecommunications and space, aligns with Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification, and showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to global digital cooperation.

Q15. How does the forum contribute to global connectivity?

A15. By fostering dialogue and collaboration on NTN technologies, the forum helps bridge the digital divide, enabling connectivity in remote areas and supporting the development of inclusive digital economies.

Q16. What is the expected impact on the telecom industry?

A16. The forum is expected to accelerate the adoption of NTN technologies, drive innovation in 5G and 6G, and promote regulatory harmonization, benefiting the global telecom industry.

Q17. Are there any sustainability focuses?

A17. Yes, the forum will address enabling eco-friendly telecom infrastructure and ensuring the sustainability of NTN networks, in line with global environmental goals.

Q18. What is the role of the ITU in the forum?

A18. The ITU, a United Nations agency, co-organizes the forum, providing international legitimacy and ensuring alignment with global telecommunication standards and development goals.

Q19. How does the forum support innovation?

A19. Through panel discussions, presentations, and competitions like the IEEE NTN for 6G, the forum fosters research, innovation, and the development of next-generation technologies.

Q20. What is the long-term vision for the forum?

A20. The forum aims to become a leading global platform for shaping the future of converged connectivity, driving international collaboration, and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and global connectivity goals.

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