Saudi Arabia Hosts 2nd Global NTN Forum with ITU in Riyadh

The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) will organize the second edition of the International Forum on Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) on November 25 and 26, 2024, in Riyadh, in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The event will be held under the patronage of the Minister of Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of the CST, Eng. Abdullah Amer Al-Swaha, and promises to be a major global gathering for experts and innovators in satellite and aerial communication technologies.

Context and Background

The forum, themed “Shaping an Integrated Future for Communication Systems,” builds on the success of its first edition held in 2022, which attracted participants from over 130 countries. The rapid evolution of non-terrestrial networks—which include satellite systems, high-altitude platforms, and drones—plays a critical role in bridging the digital divide by bringing connectivity to remote and underserved regions. Saudi Arabia’s leadership in this field is a testament to its strategic focus on technological innovation as a driver of economic diversification and global connectivity, in line with Vision 2030.

Key Details and Program Highlights

The two-day forum will feature presentations showcasing the results of leading technical experiments in non-terrestrial networks, as well as the announcement of winners from the second edition of the IEEE Competition on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G, organized by CST in partnership with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Panel discussions and specialized presentations will explore the regulatory frameworks, scientific advances, and commercial applications of NTN services. The forum aims to enhance research and innovation, promote environmentally sustainable communication infrastructure, and improve the integration of non-terrestrial networks in digital transformation initiatives.

International and Regional Implications

By co-hosting the forum with the ITU, Saudi Arabia reinforces its role as a global hub for telecommunications policy and innovation. The event provides a platform for international collaboration, enabling knowledge exchange and partnership opportunities among governments, industry leaders, and academic institutions. This positions the Kingdom as a key player in shaping the future of global communications, particularly in expanding coverage to remote areas and accelerating the deployment of 6G technologies. The inclusive and forward-looking agenda underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to using technology as a force for human development and regional stability.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This forum directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by advancing the digital transformation and innovation pillars of the Kingdom’s long-term economic and social reform plan. By fostering research, improving regulatory frameworks, and promoting sustainable communication infrastructure, the CST is helping to build a knowledge-based economy that connects people and communities. The ongoing investment in non-terrestrial network technologies demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s determination to become a global leader in next-generation telecommunications, contributing to a prosperous and connected future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the International Forum on Non-Terrestrial Networks?

A1. It is a global event organized by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission in collaboration with the ITU, focusing on satellite and aerial communication technologies.

Q2. When and where will the second edition of the forum take place?

A2. The forum will be held on November 25 and 26, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Q3. Who is the patron of the forum?

A3. The forum is under the patronage of Eng. Abdullah Amer Al-Swaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of the CST.

Q4. What is the theme of the forum?

A4. The theme is “Shaping an Integrated Future for Communication Systems.”

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

A5. NTN refers to communication networks using satellites, high-altitude platforms, and drones to provide connectivity, especially in remote areas.

Q6. Why is this forum important for Saudi Arabia?

A6. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in telecommunications innovation and supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of digital transformation and global connectivity.

Q7. How does the forum support global connectivity?

A7. It promotes technological solutions that connect remote and underserved areas, helping to bridge the digital divide.

Q8. What was the outcome of the first edition in 2022?

A8. The first edition brought together participants from over 130 countries and featured panel discussions and presentations on NTN.

Q9. Who are the co-organizers of the forum?

A9. The forum is organized by the CST in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Q10. What is the IEEE Competition on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G?

A10. It is a competition recognizing innovative research in NTN technologies for 6G, co-organized by the CST and the IEEE.

Q11. Will there be awards at the forum?

A11. Yes, winners of the second edition of the IEEE Competition on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G will be announced during the forum.

Q12. What topics will be covered in panel discussions?

A12. Panels will discuss regulatory aspects, scientific advances, commercial services, and environmental sustainability of NTN.

Q13. How can interested parties participate?

A13. Registration and further information are available on the official forum website: connectingfromtheskies.com.

Q14. What is the role of the ITU in the forum?

A14. The ITU collaborates with the CST to provide international expertise and support for the forum’s agenda.

Q15. How does the forum align with Vision 2030?

A15. It directly supports the digital transformation and innovation pillars, fostering a knowledge-based economy and sustainable infrastructure.

Q16. Is the forum focused only on technical aspects?

A16. No, it also covers regulatory, policy, and sustainability aspects of non-terrestrial networks.

Q17. What is the expected international participation?

A17. Based on the 2022 edition, attendees from over 130 countries are expected, including government officials, industry leaders, and researchers.

Q18. Does the forum address environmental concerns?

A18. Yes, it promotes the development of environmentally sustainable communication infrastructure for NTN.

Q19. How does the forum benefit researchers and innovators?

A19. It provides a platform for presenting technical experiments, networking, and gaining exposure to global regulatory and market trends.

Q20. What is the significance of the forum for global telecommunications?

A20. It positions Saudi Arabia as a key hub for shaping future communication systems, driving international collaboration on 6G and satellite networks.

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