The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step in bolstering the space industry within the Kingdom. By introducing the “Earth Observation (EO) Platform Regulations” and related application documentation, CST is paving the way for the private sector to foster a market for Earth Observation services. This strategic move is intended to support the growth of new business ventures and contribute to the nation’s economic expansion by enhancing products that offer added value.
CST’s initiative will facilitate the issuance of the inaugural space sector permit in Saudi Arabia to an organization dedicated to building and managing an electronic platform. This platform is designed to aggregate and refine EO data, which includes satellite imagery for the surveillance of natural events, environmental pollution, and meteorological conditions. The platform is envisioned as a digital facilitator and marketplace, connecting providers of EO data with entities that specialize in transforming this data into sophisticated programs and products.
The commission has also delineated the prerequisites for those seeking to secure this permit in the document titled “Application for Obtaining a Permit to Provide Earth Observation (EO) Platform Service.” This guide details the responsibilities incumbent upon applicants to ensure the protection of user rights, the security of data exchange, and the conservation of the data.
Entities interested in offering EO platform services are encouraged by CST to peruse the guidelines and apply for the necessary permit. The documents that have been made available delineate the framework within which these services are to be provided, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering innovation within the space sector.