Starlink Secures Approval in Saudi Arabia for Aviation and Maritime Services

Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, has officially received regulatory approval to operate in Saudi Arabia, allowing it to provide connectivity services across the Kingdom’s airspace and territorial waters. The announcement came during the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, where Musk thanked Saudi regulators for their support.

The move marks a major step forward for Saudi Arabia’s digital ambitions under Vision 2030, as the Kingdom seeks to modernize its infrastructure and expand high-speed internet access, particularly in hard-to-reach sectors such as aviation and maritime.

Operated by SpaceX, Starlink’s low-orbit satellite network offers high-speed, low-latency internet—ideal for remote transportation industries. This development places Saudi Arabia at the forefront of advanced connectivity in the region.

Musk also expressed interest in bringing Tesla’s autonomous vehicle technology to Saudi Arabia, including robotaxis, pending future approvals.

The approval of Starlink highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to embracing next-generation technologies and reinforces the Kingdom’s goal of becoming a regional leader in innovation and digital transformation.