Saudi Arabia Takes Vice-Chair Role at ITU Conference 2026

Saudi Arabia is participating in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) in Doha, Qatar, from November 9 to 27, 2026, where it has been selected by international consensus to serve as a vice-chair of the conference. The Kingdom is represented by Eng. Mansour AlQurashi, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Partnerships at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). This prominent role underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global telecommunications and its commitment to shaping the future of the digital economy.

At PP-26, Saudi Arabia is leading discussions on critical issues such as artificial intelligence, satellite communications, Internet governance, cybersecurity, ICT sector indicators, ITU financial resources, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Kingdom is also seeking election to the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term, continuing its more than 60-year presence on the council, and has nominated Eng. Majed AlQahtani for re-election to the Radio Regulations Board (RRB). How does this participation reflect Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions in the digital age?

Context and Background

The ITU Plenipotentiary Conference is the highest decision-making body of the International Telecommunication Union, held every four years. It brings together Member States to set the strategic direction of the ITU, adopt international treaties, and elect the organization’s leadership, including the Secretary-General, the Deputy Secretary-General, the Directors of the Bureaus, and the 48 Member States of the ITU Council. PP-26 in Doha, Qatar, from November 9 to 27, 2026, is particularly significant as it will shape global ICT policies for the coming years, addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in the digital landscape.

Saudi Arabia’s active involvement in the ITU dates back over six decades, reflecting its longstanding commitment to international cooperation in telecommunications. The Kingdom has consistently played a constructive role in the ITU’s work, contributing to the development of global standards and policies that promote connectivity, innovation, and sustainable development. Its re-election to the ITU Council would extend a legacy of leadership that has seen Saudi Arabia advocate for the interests of developing countries and promote digital inclusion. What does this enduring engagement signify for Saudi Arabia’s role on the world stage?

The selection of Eng. Mansour AlQurashi as a vice-chair of the conference is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s recognized expertise and diplomatic skill in the ICT domain. In this capacity, he will help guide the deliberations and ensure that the conference achieves its objectives. This role also provides Saudi Arabia with a platform to highlight its national achievements in digital transformation, which are central to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform agenda. How can such leadership positions translate into tangible benefits for the global community?

Key Details

During PP-26, Saudi Arabia is focusing on several priority areas that align with its national strategies and international commitments. In artificial intelligence, the Kingdom is advocating for ethical AI frameworks that promote innovation while safeguarding security and privacy. On satellite communications, Saudi Arabia is emphasizing the importance of equitable access to orbital resources and the need for international cooperation to prevent interference. Internet governance discussions are centered on maintaining a free, open, and secure Internet that benefits all nations. Cybersecurity remains a top priority, with Saudi Arabia sharing its expertise in protecting critical infrastructure and combating cyber threats.

The Kingdom is also contributing to debates on ICT sector indicators, which are essential for measuring progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Saudi Arabia supports the WSIS process, which aims to build a people-centered, inclusive, and development-oriented information society. Furthermore, the Kingdom is engaging in discussions on the ITU’s financial resources to ensure the organization has the means to fulfill its mandate effectively. These contributions reflect Saudi Arabia’s holistic approach to ICT development, balancing technological advancement with social and economic progress. What impact do these priorities have on the global digital divide?

Saudi Arabia’s candidacy for the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term is a key objective at PP-26. The Council, comprising 48 elected Member States, governs the ITU between Plenipotentiary Conferences and oversees its activities. Saudi Arabia’s more than 60 years on the Council have been marked by active participation and leadership in various working groups and study groups. The Kingdom’s re-election would allow it to continue advocating for policies that foster innovation, investment, and inclusive growth in the ICT sector. How does Saudi Arabia’s experience on the Council benefit the international community?

Additionally, Saudi Arabia has nominated Eng. Majed AlQahtani for re-election to the Radio Regulations Board (RRB). The RRB is a crucial body comprising 12 elected members with extensive expertise in radiocommunications. It examines cases of frequency interference between countries and considers appeals against decisions made by the Radiocommunication Bureau. Eng. AlQahtani’s re-election would ensure continuity in the RRB’s work and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s contribution to the fair and efficient management of the radio-frequency spectrum, a vital resource for all wireless communications. What does this nomination say about Saudi Arabia’s technical expertise?

International and Regional Impact

Saudi Arabia’s prominent role at PP-26 has significant implications for the Middle East and beyond. As a regional leader in ICT, the Kingdom’s positions on key issues often influence other Arab and Muslim-majority countries. By championing causes such as digital inclusion, cybersecurity, and sustainable development, Saudi Arabia helps bridge the digital divide and promotes stability in the digital realm. Its vice-chairmanship of the conference also enhances the visibility of the region’s priorities on the global stage, ensuring that the unique challenges and opportunities of the Middle East are addressed in international forums.

On a broader international scale, Saudi Arabia’s active engagement in the ITU reinforces the multilateral approach to global governance. In an era of rising digital nationalism and fragmentation, the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation and consensus-building is a stabilizing force. By working within the ITU framework, Saudi Arabia contributes to the development of harmonized global standards and policies that facilitate cross-border communication, trade, and innovation. This is particularly important as the world grapples with issues such as data flows, AI governance, and cybersecurity, which require coordinated global responses. How can Saudi Arabia’s leadership help shape a more inclusive digital future?

Economic and Strategic Significance

Saudi Arabia’s participation in PP-26 is closely tied to its economic diversification goals under Vision 2030. The ICT sector is a key pillar of the Kingdom’s efforts to reduce dependence on oil and build a knowledge-based economy. By shaping international ICT policies, Saudi Arabia can create an enabling environment for its domestic tech industry, attract foreign investment, and foster innovation. The discussions on AI, satellite communications, and Internet governance directly impact the growth potential of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy, which is projected to contribute significantly to GDP in the coming years.

Strategically, Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the ITU enhances its soft power and diplomatic influence. Telecommunications and digital technologies are increasingly central to geopolitics, and by being at the table where rules are made, the Kingdom can protect its interests and promote its values. The re-election to the ITU Council and the RRB would provide Saudi Arabia with platforms to advance its vision of a secure, prosperous, and interconnected world. Moreover, the conference offers opportunities for bilateral meetings and partnerships that can lead to concrete collaborations in technology transfer, capacity building, and joint ventures. What economic opportunities arise from Saudi Arabia’s active role in the ITU?

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s engagement at PP-26 is a direct reflection of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious blueprint for comprehensive national transformation. Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy, empower citizens, and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in various fields, including technology and innovation. The ICT sector is identified as a catalyst for this transformation, with initiatives such as the National Strategy for Data and AI and the Digital Economy Policy. By participating in the ITU’s highest decision-making body, Saudi Arabia is ensuring that its national priorities are aligned with global trends and that it can leverage international cooperation to achieve its goals.

Furthermore, the Kingdom’s leadership at PP-26 demonstrates its commitment to international partnerships and multilateralism, which are essential for addressing global challenges. Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of Saudi Arabia’s role in the world, not just as an energy provider but as a hub for technology, tourism, and investment. The vice-chairmanship, the ITU Council candidacy, and the RRB nomination are all milestones in this journey. As the conference unfolds, Saudi Arabia will continue to advocate for policies that promote innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable development, contributing to a brighter digital future for all. How will Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 continue to shape its global engagements in the years ahead?

20 Questions

Q1. What is the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference?

A1. The ITU Plenipotentiary Conference is the highest decision-making body of the International Telecommunication Union, held every four years. It sets the ITU’s strategic direction, adopts treaties, and elects its leadership and Council members. PP-26 is taking place in Doha, Qatar, from November 9 to 27, 2026.

Q2. Why is Saudi Arabia participating in PP-26?

A2. Saudi Arabia is participating to contribute to global ICT policy-making, advocate for key priorities such as AI and cybersecurity, and seek election to the ITU Council and the Radio Regulations Board. Its involvement reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation and Vision 2030.

Q3. What role was Saudi Arabia selected for at PP-26?

A3. Saudi Arabia was selected by international consensus to serve as a vice-chair of the conference. Eng. Mansour AlQurashi, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Partnerships at MCIT, represents the Kingdom in this role.

Q4. Who is Eng. Mansour AlQurashi?

A4. Eng. Mansour AlQurashi is the Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Partnerships at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. He is representing Saudi Arabia as vice-chair of PP-26.

Q5. What are Saudi Arabia’s priority areas at PP-26?

A5. Saudi Arabia is leading discussions on artificial intelligence, satellite communications, Internet governance, cybersecurity, ICT sector indicators, ITU financial resources, WSIS, and the Sustainable Development Goals. These areas align with the Kingdom’s national strategies and global commitments.

Q6. Why is Saudi Arabia seeking election to the ITU Council?

A6. Saudi Arabia seeks election to the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term to continue its more than 60-year presence on the council. This would allow the Kingdom to further contribute to global ICT policies and advocate for innovation and inclusivity.

Q7. What is the ITU Council?

A7. The ITU Council comprises 48 elected Member States and governs the ITU between Plenipotentiary Conferences. It oversees the organization’s activities and ensures the implementation of decisions made at the conferences.

Q8. Who is Eng. Majed AlQahtani?

A8. Eng. Majed AlQahtani is Saudi Arabia’s nominee for re-election to the Radio Regulations Board. He has extensive expertise in radiocommunications and has contributed to the RRB’s work in managing frequency interference cases.

Q9. What is the Radio Regulations Board?

A9. The Radio Regulations Board comprises 12 elected members with expertise in radiocommunications. It examines cases of frequency interference between countries and considers appeals against decisions made by the Radiocommunication Bureau.

Q10. How does Saudi Arabia’s participation benefit the global ICT sector?

A10. Saudi Arabia’s participation brings a perspective that balances technological advancement with sustainable development. Its leadership on issues like AI ethics and cybersecurity helps shape global standards that promote security, innovation, and inclusivity.

Q11. What is the significance of Saudi Arabia’s vice-chairmanship?

A11. The vice-chairmanship allows Saudi Arabia to help guide the conference’s deliberations and ensures that the Kingdom’s priorities are reflected in the outcomes. It also highlights Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic and technical expertise on the world stage.

Q12. How does PP-26 relate to Vision 2030?

A12. PP-26 aligns with Vision 2030 by enabling Saudi Arabia to shape international ICT policies that support its economic diversification and digital transformation goals. The Kingdom’s participation underscores its commitment to becoming a global tech hub.

Q13. What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the context of ICT?

A13. The SDGs include targets related to ICT infrastructure and access. Saudi Arabia advocates for policies that leverage ICT to achieve these goals, such as promoting digital inclusion and bridging the digital divide.

Q14. What is the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)?

A14. WSIS is a UN initiative that aims to build a people-centered, inclusive, and development-oriented information society. Saudi Arabia supports the WSIS process and its role in advancing global digital cooperation.

Q15. How does Saudi Arabia contribute to Internet governance discussions?

A15. Saudi Arabia advocates for a free, open, and secure Internet that benefits all nations. It participates in discussions on policies that ensure the Internet remains a driver of innovation and economic growth while protecting users’ rights and security.

Q16. What is the importance of satellite communications for Saudi Arabia?

A16. Satellite communications are vital for Saudi Arabia’s connectivity, especially in remote areas. The Kingdom promotes equitable access to orbital resources and international cooperation to prevent interference and ensure reliable services.

Q17. How does Saudi Arabia address cybersecurity at PP-26?

A17. Saudi Arabia shares its expertise in protecting critical infrastructure and combating cyber threats. It advocates for international cooperation and capacity-building to enhance global cybersecurity resilience.

Q18. What are ICT sector indicators and why do they matter?

A18. ICT sector indicators measure progress in areas such as connectivity, affordability, and usage. They are essential for tracking the achievement of the SDGs and for informing evidence-based policies. Saudi Arabia contributes to the development of these indicators.

Q19. How does Saudi Arabia’s participation in PP-26 impact the Middle East?

A19. Saudi Arabia’s leadership at PP-26 elevates the Middle East’s priorities in global ICT discussions. It helps ensure that the region’s unique challenges and opportunities are addressed, promoting digital development and stability.

Q20. What outcomes does Saudi Arabia hope to achieve at PP-26?

A20. Saudi Arabia aims to secure election to the ITU Council, re-elect Eng. Majed AlQahtani to the RRB, and influence global ICT policies in line with its priorities. These outcomes would advance the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and contribute to a more connected world.

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