Latest news with #NationalSpaceProgramme
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: First-ever directory of space sector companies unveiled
MUSCAT - The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology has launched a first-ever directory of space sector companies. The Private Sector Directory Space Sector 2024, released by the National Space Programme, contains a comprehensive list of private sector entities with the purpose of promoting local players and facilitating global partnerships. In his foreword, Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, underscored the significance of the initiative. 'The Space Directory serves as a comprehensive source, cataloguing the key entities, initiatives, and capabilities within our space sector. It is designed to be a valuable reference for stakeholders across government, industry, academia, and international partners. Our objective is to facilitate collaboration, promote the exchange of knowledge, and inspire a new generation of Omanis to take part in the space sector.' According to the Minister, the handbook profiles companies working across various fields within the space sector. 'The Sultanate of Oman has a growing number of private sector companies who are working along the space sector value chain. We are proud that we have enterprises in these domains: companies operating satellites, distributing remote sensing data, companies using satellite data to create solutions and respond to key local challenges, companies delivering world-class satellite communications services, private projects to develop the most promising sites in the world for a new commercial spaceport, and companies developing scientific and economic space zones,' he said. Furthermore, the Minister noted that the space sector still contains significant untapped potential. 'We still see many opportunities for growth in the Omani space sector. We hope this directory will inform readers about enterprises working in the Sultanate of Oman, and enable many quality connections and meaningful partnerships.' The directory lists 20 companies in Oman as of the end of 2024, including seven drone and space services and applications companies, five space-related services and consultancy companies, four satellite communication service providers, two satellite and remote sensing operators, and two launch companies (a parent and subsidiary). The private sector plays a key role in the National Space Policy and Executive Programme, which aims to boost contribution of the digital economy to the local GDP from 2% currently, to 5% by 2030 and 10% by 2040, under the umbrella of the Oman Vision 2040's National Digital Economy Plan. According to the recent data, the sector contributes 0.05% to the local GDP with a market value of $155 million as of 2021. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
13-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
First-ever directory of space sector companies unveiled
MUSCAT, JULY 13 The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology has launched a first-ever directory of space sector companies. The Private Sector Directory Space Sector 2024, released by the National Space Programme, contains a comprehensive list of private sector entities with the purpose of promoting local players and facilitating global partnerships. In his foreword, Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, underscored the significance of the initiative. 'The Space Directory serves as a comprehensive source, cataloguing the key entities, initiatives, and capabilities within our space sector. It is designed to be a valuable reference for stakeholders across government, industry, academia, and international partners. Our objective is to facilitate collaboration, promote the exchange of knowledge, and inspire a new generation of Omanis to take part in the space sector.' According to the Minister, the handbook profiles companies working across various fields within the space sector. 'The Sultanate of Oman has a growing number of private sector companies who are working along the space sector value chain. We are proud that we have enterprises in these domains: companies operating satellites, distributing remote sensing data, companies using satellite data to create solutions and respond to key local challenges, companies delivering world-class satellite communications services, private projects to develop the most promising sites in the world for a new commercial spaceport, and companies developing scientific and economic space zones,' he said. Furthermore, the Minister noted that the space sector still contains significant untapped potential. 'We still see many opportunities for growth in the Omani space sector. We hope this directory will inform readers about enterprises working in the Sultanate of Oman, and enable many quality connections and meaningful partnerships.' The directory lists 20 companies in Oman as of the end of 2024, including seven drone and space services and applications companies, five space-related services and consultancy companies, four satellite communication service providers, two satellite and remote sensing operators, and two launch companies (a parent and subsidiary). The private sector plays a key role in the National Space Policy and Executive Programme, which aims to boost contribution of the digital economy to the local GDP from 2% currently, to 5% by 2030 and 10% by 2040, under the umbrella of the Oman Vision 2040's National Digital Economy Plan. According to the recent data, the sector contributes 0.05% to the local GDP with a market value of $155 million as of 2021.
The Hindu
13-07-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
A.P. Space Policy aims at attracting investments of ₹25,000 crore in next 10 years
The Government of Andhra Pradesh issued a G.O. on Sunday introducing the A.P. Space Policy (4.0) 2025-30, aimed at developing an enabling ecosystem for the development, manufacturing, and commercialisation of space technologies and services in the State. It facilitates investments amounting to ₹25,000 crore over the next 10 years and creation of 5,000 direct and 30,000 indirect jobs in high technology space-linked domains. It is stated that the Government of India (GoI) has laid out an ambitious vision for the National Space Programme (NSP) over the next few decades, encompassing advanced missions, next-generation infrastructure, and strategic research and development. These projects, driven by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Department of Space, and their commercial and regulatory arms, represent a significant opportunity for industrial participation across manufacturing, innovation, and services. Andhra Pradesh, with its geographic and policy advantages, is uniquely positioned to support and benefit from the national initiatives. Towards supporting the vision of the GoI, the State government intended to develop a comprehensive and inclusive industrial ecosystem for space sector participants, including start-ups, large enterprises, academic institutions, and global investors. Manufacturing clusters The aim is to attract domestic and foreign investments in all segments of the space value chain, facilitate space-based innovations in governance, education, agriculture, disaster management, and environment monitoring, support the NSP through industrial supply base development and setting up manufacturing clusters near Sriharikota, promote public-private partnerships, and to encourage technology transfer through regulatory frameworks and funding. The A.P. Space Policy (4.0) 2025-30 is valid for five years from the date of issue (July 13, 2025), or till a new policy is announced. A technical committee will be constituted under the Commissioner of Industries to vet and process applications for land allotment in the Space Cities proposed to be developed along the Hyderabad-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor in Sri Sathya Sai district and in Tirupati (Routhasuramala). The government will form an SPV, 'AP Space City Corporation', which will drive all initiatives related to the development of the above Space Cities, and serve as the central agency to coordinate infrastructure development, raise start-up funds, attract investments, facilitate industry partnerships, build partnerships to attract global demand, and liaise with all GoI entities for tapping the domestic demand.
Muscat Daily
09-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
MTCIT's national space accelerator to boost tech startups in Oman
Muscat – Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) launched a national initiative – designed to empower local startups to develop innovative space solutions and services – called Space Accelerators Programme on Wednesday. The one-year programme aims to stimulate entrepreneurship in the space sector, attract investment in advanced technologies, and support the localisation and transfer of space services within the sultanate. It also aligns with Oman's broader goals of economic diversification and technological advancement. The programme will be implemented by Omani firm Ankaa Space and Technology Company in partnership with Exotopic, a UK-based firm specialising in accelerator initiatives. It will support ten Omani startups in developing commercially viable space technologies, while enhancing national capabilities in space innovation. Dr Saud bin Humaid al Shuaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of National Space Programme, said the initiative is part of MTCIT's broader efforts to build a vibrant ecosystem for space entrepreneurship. 'The programme offers an integrated environment that combines technical mentorship, entrepreneurial training, and access to a global network of partners and experts,' Shuaili said. It will focus on high-impact sectors including satellite communications, Earth observation, geo-spatial analytics, navigation, artificial intelligence, drones, the Internet of Things, spacecraft simulation, and advanced computing. The top three performing startups will also receive incentives supporting long-term sustainability and growth of their ventures. The programme will include a comprehensive training curriculum covering technical and commercial aspects aimed at enhancing skills of local entrepreneurs.
Observer
09-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman launches space accelerator programme to boost innovation
MUSCAT: In a significant move in furtherance of Oman Vision 2040, the Sultanate of Oman has launched the Oman Space Accelerators Programme—an innovative programme to foster in-country capabilities in the global space sector and establish a knowledge-based economy. Commissioned by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), the accelerator is Oman's first and is being established in partnership with Ankaa Space & Technologies and UK space innovation business Exotopic. Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Under-Secretary for Communications and Information Technology, explained: 'It is the first-of-its-kind accelerator programme in Oman that is initiated to serve technology companies that want to venture into the growing space industry. The programme will provide technical guidance, awareness training, and official networking with investors, global corporations, and world space industry legends.' He continued, "The long-term vision of the accelerator is to equip 10 Omani companies with the necessary tools and expertise to be path-breaking drivers of the space economy, contributing directly to Oman Vision 2040's innovation and human capital targets." The 15-week programme, extending from late August through early December, will support ten Omani startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, entrepreneurs, and academics with a fast-track sequence of training workshops and business development exercises. Dr Saoud bin Humaid al Shoaili, Head of the National Space Programme, linked the programme to broader national interests: "As part of an effort to realize the ambitious goals of the National Space Programme and Oman Vision 2040, we launched a comprehensive strategy aimed at developing strong national capabilities in the sector." Dr Al Shoaili also explained that the project fosters a competitive culture that encourages creative solutions, and the first three entities are awarded to encourage sustainable activities corresponding to strategic goals of the industry. The programme will focus on key space industry domains such as communications, earth observation, geospatial analytics, navigation, drones, AI and machine learning, advanced computing, data storage, IoT, spacecraft simulations, startup acceleration, and technology innovation. He outlined the three strategic pillars of the programme: institutional capacity, individual skills development, and entrepreneurial and commercial capability. 'Since January 2023, we've implemented a number of targeted initiatives to strengthen Omani expertise and readiness in the space domain, in line with national aspirations,' he said. Ghaida al Jabri, Project Manager at Ankaa Space & Technologies, highlighted the inclusive and collaborative nature of the project. "Oman has worked on this programme in partnership with MoTCIT, Al Ankaa, and Exotopic in the National Space Programme. It is a demonstration of direct contribution to the innovation and private sector development pillars of Oman Vision 2040." She added, "The programme aims to fast-track the growth of domestic entities and put them in a position to be at the forefront of Oman's new space economy." Speaking to the Observer, Dan Veal, Principal Investigator at Exotopic, emphasised the strategic timing of Oman's entry into the space race. "Oman is entering the international space sector at a critical time when neighboring nations are heavily investing in space technologies. The project represents a significant opportunity for young Omanis and small and medium enterprises to take up a forward-thinking and fast-growing global industry." He noted, "Given the data-driven nature of the space economy, it's quite open for new entrants to make a significant impact quite soon. Oman has a good chance of competing at the regional and global level."
