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Starlink approved in Saudi Arabia

Starlink approved in Saudi Arabia for aviation and maritime use, says Elon Musk

https://icn.live/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Starlink-approved-SA.mp3
  • by ICN.live
Leila Al-Khatib

Starlink approved in Saudi Arabia marks a major step for Elon Musk’s satellite internet expansion in the Middle East.

Speaking at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum, Musk revealed that the Kingdom has approved Starlink for aviation and maritime use. This move opens up high-speed, low-latency connectivity for both air and sea travel. It’s a significant milestone for SpaceX’s ambitions in the region.

Starlink is operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a subsidiary of SpaceX. It provides global internet coverage through a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites. Approval in Saudi Arabia now places it alongside countries like Jordan, Oman, Qatar, and Yemen. These nations already offer Starlink’s services, with more expected to follow soon.

Starlink expansion shows momentum in the Middle East

Musk also noted that Jordan has recently been added to the Starlink map. Kuwait and Bahrain are expected to receive service later this year. Documents from the UAE’s telecommunications authority confirm a 10-year license granted to Starlink for maritime satellite services in 2024. Although the full consumer rollout is still listed as “pending” in some regions, the momentum is clear.

This broader access to satellite internet will benefit sectors like tourism, shipping, and air travel. It promises to revolutionize how remote areas in these nations connect to the digital world. Starlink approved in Saudi Arabia could soon lead to broader commercial and consumer use across the country.

Elon Musk envisions a robotic future with Optimus

At the same forum, Musk surprised attendees by showcasing Tesla Optimus robots. He demonstrated them to both President Donald Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. One robot even performed the iconic Trump dance, drawing laughter and applause from the crowd.

Musk spoke about a bold vision of the future. “We are headed to a radically different world,” he said. “You can think of future cars as robots on four wheels.” He proposed a world where every person might have their own personal robot, suggesting this future isn’t far off.

Starlink approved in Saudi Arabia paves the way for more tech adoption

The Kingdom’s decision to approve Starlink signals its openness to cutting-edge technologies. It aligns with Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and embrace futuristic infrastructure.

With Starlink approved in Saudi Arabia and autonomous technology entering the discussion, the region seems ready to embrace digital transformation. Musk’s presence and announcements at the forum underline the increasing importance of the Middle East in global tech conversations.

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What does Starlink approval in Saudi Arabia mean?

Starlink’s approval in Saudi Arabia allows it to offer internet services for aviation and maritime sectors. This means planes and ships operating in the Kingdom can access high-speed, satellite-powered internet. It’s a game-changer for industries reliant on constant connectivity, especially in remote or offshore areas. The approval reflects Saudi Arabia’s willingness to adopt next-generation technologies in line with its Vision 2030 goals. This decision may pave the way for broader consumer and enterprise access to Starlink internet in the near future.

Where else in the Middle East is Starlink available?

Starlink is currently active in several Middle Eastern countries, including Jordan, Oman, Qatar, and Yemen. Kuwait and Bahrain are expected to receive service later in 2025. While full availability in Saudi Arabia and the UAE is pending for residential services, both nations have already approved limited or sector-specific use. For instance, the UAE granted Starlink a 10-year license for maritime use earlier this year. The trend points to continued expansion across the region.

What is the significance of Tesla Optimus robots at the forum?

Elon Musk brought Tesla Optimus robots to the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum to showcase the potential of robotics. These humanoid robots are being developed to assist with repetitive and manual tasks. Musk believes that in the near future, personal robots could become as common as smartphones. The demo—complete with a robot doing a “Trump dance”—was both entertaining and symbolic. It underscored Musk’s vision of a world where AI and robotics are part of daily life.

How does this relate to Saudi Arabia’s tech ambitions?

Saudi Arabia is aiming to become a regional tech leader as part of its Vision 2030 strategy. Approving Starlink for aviation and maritime use is just one piece of a broader puzzle. By embracing disruptive technologies like satellite internet, AI, and robotics, the Kingdom is signaling its readiness for the digital economy. Events like the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum highlight the Kingdom’s desire to collaborate with tech giants and play an active role in shaping the future.

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