OMAN SPACE

POLICY AND
EXECUTIVE
PROGRAM
Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

2023 - 2033

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

1
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

Our government will follow up progress in various sectors, including

small and medium enterprises, and entrepreneurship, particularly
those based on innovation, artificial intelligence, and advanced
technologies. This is in addition to training and enabling youth to
benefit from the opportunities made available in this vital sector, so
that it could form a cornerstone in the national economy.

HM’s speech Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, 23 February 2020

2 Source: Oman News Agency
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

3
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

© Sultanate of Oman

In case of any discrepancies between the English and Arabic versions,

the Arabic original version shall prevail.

Citation: Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program, MTCIT
National Center for Space, Advanced Technology and AI
www.mtcit.gov.om

4 2023
TABLE
OF CONTENTS

01
Message from Minister of Transport,
Communications and Information Technology 06

02
Ministry’s Mandates in Space Sector 08

03
Market Opportunities in Space Markets 11

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
04
Oman’s Sectorial Capabilities Space Sector’s Indicator 16

05
Oman Space Policy at a Glance 19

06
Priority Space Focus Areas 25

07
The Executive Program for The Omani Space Sector 28

08
Investment Opportunities 34
5
 Message
from
H.E. Eng.
Saeed Bin
Hamoud
Al-Mawali,
Minister of
Transport,
Communications
and Information
Technology
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

Space, unique among human activities, has Looking forward, Oman’s future will be based on
the power to propel human imagination and innovation and knowledge, pursuing opportunities
innovation. As a nation of pioneers and explorers that were not accessible in the past. In that
in the pursuit of knowledge and prosperity, Oman regard, the tremendous changes in the global
has much to offer to—and benefit from—space. space sector offer unique perspectives for our
country to leverage capabilities, respond to our
Our strategic location has contributed to the most critical national challenges and support our
flourishing of maritime activity throughout the way towards a flourishing digital economy to fuel
ages and now supports global connectivity a sustainable knowledge-based economy.
across continents. Our culture is rich in customs
and traditions borne by values of humanities, Today, we set our eyes on our next goals. This
spirituality and tolerance, making Oman a unique policy highlights Oman’s space vision, values and
partner to support open international dialogue and priorities. It lays the foundations and charts the
a launchpad for future opportunities in a domain path of our space sector for the years to come.
humanity has just touched the surface, space.
We have engaged an unparalleled transformation
of our economy and society under the strategic
6
direction of Oman’s Vision 2040.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

7
 Ministry’s mandates in
space sector according to
the Royal Decree 90/2020

Propose policies and strategic plans related to technology and space sciences in
a way that contributes to achieving the goals of the Oman development plans.

Establish the national space program in the short, medium and long term,
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

and follow-up on its implementation.

Support programs to develop uses and applications of space science and

technology.

Work towards the establishment of an infrastructure for the development

and manufacturing of space systems and satellites.

8
The National Direction
of Digital Economy

Oman
Vision
National Vision
2040
Targets
2025 - 2030 - 2040 Thriving digital economy
Digital Vision
Vision Mission Goals

Digital Business Smart

Pillars
Society Digitization Government

Strategic targets in 2025 - 2030 - 2040

Targets related to
Readiness for the Network E-Government Oman Vision 2040
future of production Readiness Index Development Index

Target Sectors related to

Transportation the tenth five-year plan
Education Mining Fisheries Manufacturing Tourism
and Logistics
Empowering
Digital Executive
Digital Digital AI and Advanced
Programs and Economy Fintech Space Cybersecurity transformation Infrastrucure E-Commerce
industry Technologies Programs
ecosystem
Strategies
2021 - 2025 Increase the Rank 10 in Rank 40th in Rank 40 in 2025 Program
List 5 Omani Rank 30 in
contribution Double the the the Rank 40 in the
Launch the the targets
of the digital percentage of e-Government ICT companies Network Governments
Omani Cybersecuri E-Commerce
economy to e-payments ty Index Development in the stock Readiness Index AI Readiness
satellite market Index
3% Index Index

Ministry of
Central Bank Telecommunications Commerce,
Collaborating
Ministry of Ministry of Transport, Communications and Regulatory Industry Entities
Economy of Oman Information Technology Authoritv and investment
Promotion

The Financial and Economic Committee of the Council of Ministers Overall

Governance

9
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
 Oman Space Policy
and Executive Program
Development Methodology

The purpose of this project is to study and analyze the current situation of the space sector in
Oman, on both levels Local and global, and determine the future directions of the sector.
The project will be implemented in 3 stages:

1 WHY ?
PROJECT INCEPTION
Rationale for Oman space strategy
• SPACE MARKET CONTEXT
• OMAN NATIONAL CONTEXT
• INTERNATIONAL BENCHMARK

2
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

WHAT?
SPACE POLICY
Objectives to pursue
• SPACE POLICIES BENCHMARK
• SPACE POLICY DRAFTING

3 HOW?
SPACE STRATEGY
Space program business case
• PROGRAM SCENARIOS
• EXECUTIVE PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

10
Market Opportunities in Space
Markets Are Driven By Downstream
Applications and Services
The emergence of new players combined with sustained investments
from historical leaders is pushing governments budgets for space wor-
ldwide with priorities towards defense, space exploration, the develop-
ment of sovereign assets and capability building for new entrants.

GOVERNMENTS’ ALL TIME HIGH INTEREST IN SPACE

• 2020 marked an all time high with 85 countries investing in a space

program and $82 billion reached globally by space budgets (a 10% in-
crease over 2019 and an annual growth rate not seen since 2009).

• A growing number of countries are investing in space attracted by so-

cio-economic benefits of space assets, boost innovation and techni-
cal capabilities, support their armed forces, but also by the promise of
capturing a share of the rapidly-growing commercial space market.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
• Still, investments remains largely concentrated with the top 5 space
programs accounting for 81% (v 93% 20 years ago), with the US alone
accounting for more than 59%

WORLD GOV. SPACE INVESTMENTS

99 $ BILLION
82
69

36

2000 2010 2020 2030

11
 Defense and exploration as key drivers

DEFENSE AND EXPLORATION AS KEY DRIVERS

Governments are anticipated to maintain their growing investment trend n

the decade to reach $99 billion by 2030, driven by two strategic priorities:

• Defense satellite programs as, leading and newcomer space countries

seek to reinforce their leadership in an increasingly complex geopolitical
environment.

• Affirmed ambitions towards space exploration with convergence towar-

ds Moon and Mars missions.

COUNTRIES INVESTING IN SPACE

85
72 NUMBER OF
COUNTRIES
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

30

2000 2010 2020

12
TOP 5 WORLD’S INVESTMENTS

93%
OF WORLD’S TOTAL

2000
0.7 0.8 1.9 3.1 27.1

82%
OF WORLD’S TOTAL

2020

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
3.3 3.6 4 8.9 47.7

CIVIL V. DEFENSE SPENDINGS

61% CIVIL 54%

39% 46%
DEFENSE

2020 2010

13
 Market Environment Global
Trends in Space Markets

The global space sector is experiencing strong market dynamics pu-

shed by new supply and demand drivers, disruptive innovations and
transforming business models.

MARKET VALUE TO REACH ~$570B BY 2020

• World’s revenues from space activities totaled $315B in 2020, up from

$290B in 2015. While the sector has experienced strong growth over
the years (+4% annual) Covid crisis impacted the sector in 2020 with
revenues down by ~6%.

• Still, the sector is posting strong recovery with 2021 revenues back to
2019 levels. By 2030, the market is expected to reach ~$570B, i.e +80%
over 2020 driven by the development of services and applications.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

DOWNSTREAM GENERATE MOST OF THE VALUE

• Upstream activities represent the core of the space industry from

manufacturing to operations of space systems. These segments ex-
perience generate moderate revenues and growth, 10% of the total
market, as infrastructure business.

• Downstream activities include operations, services and end-users ter-

minals. They account for the majority of the total market value (90%)
driven by satellite communications and navigation services (consumer
applications), growing at around 6% CAGR over the decade.

14
 TOTAL SPACE MARKET VALUE BREAKDOWN PER SEGMENTS (2021)

$ BILLION

600 DOWNSTREAM

500
90%
400

300 UPSTREAM

200
10%
100 TOTAL
MARKET VALUE:
0
2015 2020 2025 2030 337
PAST FORECAST B$

WORLD’S SPACE INDUSTRY REVENUES ALONG THE VALUE CHAIN

IN 2021 ($ BILLION)

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
DOWNSTREAM UPSTREAM

285 15 4 8 25

SERVICES & OPERATIONS GROUND LAUNCH MANUFACTURING

TERMINALS SEGMENT

15
 Oman’s Sectorial Sapabilities
Space Sector’s Indicator
Oman space sector remains small in terms of entities involved, employment and
revenue generated. Mostly concentrated downstream as satcom and EO services
have developed over time. No revenue generated upstream yet as players have
not started commercial business.

STAKEHOLDERS * EMPLOYEES*

SPACE
COMMUNICATIONS 9 54

EARTH
OBSERVATION 4 31

* THE NUMBERS OF STAKEHOLDERS AND EMPLOYEES IN SPACE COMMUNICATIONS AND EARTH

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

OBSERVATION ARE WITHIN THE NUMBERS MENTIONED IN OPERATIONS AND SERVICES

POLICY &
REGULATION 4 20

SATELLITE
MANUFACTURING 0 0

LAUNCH
SERVICES 1 6

OPERATIONS ٤ 69

SERVIECS 13 57

16 TOTAL 22 152
Oman’s Space Sector
SWOT Analysis
The analysis performed in Phase 1 has allowed to identify strengths and
weaknesses to build upon as well as opportunities and threats to consi-
der when developing Oman’s space Executive Program. Key outcomes are
summarized below.

STRENGTHS

• Favorable national policy context for the establishment of a space pro-

gram
• Oman unique diplomatic position in the Middle East opening range of coo-
peration
• Geographical position offering a competitive advantage for specific space
applications as well as specific needs to be served.
• Telecom regulation aligned with international standards
• Existing capabilities and ground infrastructure for satcom and remote

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
sensing
• Existing space related players well connected internationally
• Strong pool of engineering/ICT graduate students
• Advanced telecom infrastructures (Fiber coverage, submarine cables..)
•

OPPORTUNITIES

• Future space initiatives able to respond to top national priorities across

sectors, if well defined and aligned. Strong leveraging effect potential.
• Growing challenges faced by the country requiring use of satellite-based
technologies (natural disasters, connectivity, maritime domain aware-
ness…)
• Business regulations improving with respect to international standards
• Small but existing network of players with ambitious space development
plans
• Several sectors’ enablers that can be activated (incubators, Oman Invest-
ment Authority, Oman Vision 2040 Follow Up Unit etc…)

17
 WEAKNESSES

• Still a limited share of technology sectors into national economy and job
market
• Small number of players with no capabilities upstream to build upon
• Weak synchronization between stakeholders in S&T incl. space
• Absence of legal provisions tailored/adapted to space technologies and
applications outside telecom, impeding sectorial development
• Legal/regulatory environment still presenting gaps to attract FDIs
• Small national market for space technologies and services (gov and com-
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

mercial)
• Fragmented sector governance.

THREATS

• Pressure on public finances constraining investment opportunities

• Multiple regional players already active in space with ambitious plans crea-
ting a regional competition to attract partners and fund projects
• Fragile ecosystem dependent of a handful numbers of players not sustai-
nable in the short term without government support
• Duplicating initiatives between existing stakeholders creating intra-com-
petition, lack of visibility and possibly investments redundancies.

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Oman Space Policy
at a Glance
The policy determines the vision of the sector 2023 – 2033, the four pillars that
will support the realization of the vision, and the requirements for each pillars.

The Policy Structure

Economic​
Diversification​ Capacity​
Space to generate commercial Building​
opportunities in a digital economy
Space to boost innovation in
a knowledge-based society​

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
Vision
To become the regional gateway
for space applications to empower
economic diversification and
unlock future opportunities

National
Security
Space to safeguard sovereignty
Environment​
for a secured country​ & Natural Resources ​
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Space to support sustainable
exploration and use of resources ​
 Pillars of Oman’s
Space Policy
1. ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION
As a sector based on science and technology, knowledge and innovation, space
offers great opportunities to contribute to the diversification of the economy and
to support the transition towards a digital society. National space initiatives will
be directed towards supporting the development of a commercially oriented and
competitive Omani space sector.

In order to achieve this, we will:

1 PRIORITIZE INVESTMENTS IN THE SPACE DOWNSTREAM SECTOR IN AREAS

WITH STRONG COMMERCIAL GROWTH POTENTIAL
• Become a center of excellence in space-based applications and services that
support growth of key national economic sectors.
• Target markets offering high commercial opportunities such as satellite
broadband, mobile connectivity, Earth observation and navigation services.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

2 SUPPORT THE GROWTH OF THE NATIONAL SPACE ECOSYSTEM

• Provide sustained support to the private space sector, establishing the

conditions for a vibrant, sustainable and competitive space ecosystem.
• Attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to accelerate the development of the
national space sector.

3 DEVELOP A SPACE SECTOR SUPPORTING THE DIGITAL ECONOMY

• Position Oman as a regional space gateway, building and offering a unique
ecosystem of digital infrastructures and professional skills to develop cutting-
edge downstream applications.
• Specialize in satellite data processing and analytics to offer very high value-
added services and generate economic benefits.

4
LEVERAGE NATIONAL STRENGTHS TO BECOME A KEY REGIONAL SPACE
PLAYER
• Use Oman’s world-class ICT infrastructure to support the space sector.
• Accelerate the growth of the space sector by capitalizing on Oman’s strong
field of STEM graduates.
• Leverage Oman’s domestic political stability, business environment and
favourable geopolitical position to build a robust space sector.
20
Pillars of Oman’s Space Policy

2. CAPACITY BUILDING
National capacity plays a key role in supporting a sustainable and growing space
sector, contributing to the achievement of the national technology and innovation
strategy. The space sector will increase industrial and human capabilities, helping
to create the jobs of the future.

In order to achieve this, we will:

1 BUILD SPACE CAPABILITIES MEETING THE NEEDS OF KEY SECTORS

• Orient the development of space solutions tailored to the requirements of

leading national sectors such as maritime, security, energy, urban planning,
and logistics.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
ALIGN SPACE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT WITH INNOVATION PRIORITIES

• Emphasise the development of capabilities in technologies enabling Oman

to position itself as a regional space gateway, including data analytics,
cybersecurity, cloud computing, and other digital technologies.

3 EMPOWER GRADUATES AND PROFESSIONALS

• Upskill professional competencies by establishing space-specific educational

curricula, mentorship programmes, business coaching, and other training
opportunities.
• Align educational training opportunities with space market demands for skilled
labour.

4 PROMOTE SPACE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COOPERATION

• Strengthen academia - industry partnerships to spark innovation and facilitate

knowledge-sharing.
• Capitalize on opportunities for international collaboration facilitating
technological and knowledge transfer.
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 Pillars of Oman’s Space Policy

3. NATIONAL SECURITY
Space offers valuable solutions for protecting national security and safeguarding
Oman’s sovereignty, such as monitoring land and maritime borders and increasing
resilience against natural disasters. To reduce foreign reliance, Oman’s space
activities will pursue strategic autonomy and leadership in critical areas.

In order to achieve this, we will:

1 SECURE SOVEREIGN SPACE INFRASTRUCTURES AND COMPETENCIES

• Prioritize strategic capabilities in satellite communications and earth

observation. These space applications will require sovereign ground
infrastructure, further advancing Oman as a regional space gateway.

2
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

IMPROVE RESILIENCE AGAINST NATURAL DISASTERS

• Develop space applications to reduce, mitigate and recover from damage

caused by extreme weather and natural disasters which threaten the safety
and well-being of our people.

3 LEVERAGE SPACE TO RESPOND TO THREATS AND TACKLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC

CHALLENGES
• Deliver space-based services to rural and underserved areas such as
e-government, e-health and e-education, as well as promote digital inclusion.
• Maximize the use of satellite-based solutions to enhance safety and security
on land, air and sea.

4 COLLABORATE INTERNATIONALLY TO HELP SHAPE GLOBAL NORMS FOR THE

RESPONSIBLE AND PEACEFUL USE OF SPACE
• Conduct national space activities in respect of the international principles of
the peaceful use of space.
• Engage in diplomatic initiatives with international partners and advocate for
space safety, security and sustainability.
22
Pillars of Oman’s Space Policy

4. ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES

Oman pledges to be a responsible steward of both earth and space environments.
We will encourage the development of space applications geared towards protecting
the environment, ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources to support the
national economy and improve quality of life.

In order to achieve this, we will:

1 SUPPORT THE SUSTAINABLE USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES

• Emphasize space-based applications to explore, utilise and protect natural

resources including fresh water, oil & gas reserves, and fish stocks.
• Use space technologies to contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) such as increasing agricultural yields, protecting fragile ecosystems,
and preventing biodiversity loss.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
2 LEVERAGE SPACE SOLUTIONS TO OPTIMISE ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURES

• Support the use and development of space-based applications to optimise

the operation of energy infrastructures and green technology projects.

3 TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE WITH SPACE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

• Support space initiatives to monitor air, land and sea environments and protect
them against the effects of climate change.

4
CONTRIBUTE TO THE SUSTAINABLE USE OF SPACE

• Develop and provide access to national assets and infrastructures supporting

space sustainability initiatives such as space situational awareness (SSA) and
space debris monitoring.
• Undertake diplomatic initiatives to encourage the responsible and peaceful
use of outer space.

23
 Priority Space
Focus Areas
Activities under the strategic Pillars of Oman’s Space Policy will be guided
by the Priority Space Focus Areas.

Satellite Communications

As a commercially mature and rapidly evolving

market, Satellite Communications (Satcom)
contribute to a thriving digital economy. Offering
multiple business opportunities, Oman’s
space sector can leverage its competitive
ICT infrastructure and experience in Satcom
services supply. Building sovereign Satcom
capability will further contribute to achieving
Oman’s broadband strategy and support its
national security.

Earth Observation
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

Oman has built world class expertise in Earth

Observation (EO) applications for public
and private sector needs, including disaster
management, meteorology, environment,
energy, urban planning and security. Oman will
enhance support to its EO sector to become
a center of excellence for high value-added
applications via developing skills in AI, data
analytics, data fusion and multi-sourcing
capabilities.

Ground Networks

Changes in the space industry are transforming

the way satellite systems are connected to
ground networks. Oman will make full use of
its unique geographical advantages, extensive
cloud and ICT infrastructure and legacy in
telecommunication networks to become the
new Space Gateway for the world space sector
supporting satellite and science applications.

24
 Downstream space
applications open
up considerable
opportunities for
Oman’s space sector
The commercial space sector is experiencing strong market dynamics,
disruptive innovations and transforming business models unlocking new market
opportunities.

Downstream applications and services will continue to concentrate most of

the space market value. Leveraging on legacy capabilities and innovation, they
will represent Oman’s entry point in the global space sector.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
Space economy key highlights

90 countries invest The space economy Grows x2 time faster

in space in 2022 will hit $642B by 2030 than the world economy

Downstream applications Space account for But only 0.05%

account for 90% of the space 0.44% of the world’s GDP of Oman’s GDP
market value.
25
 Oman as a New Space
Gateway
Oman has embarked on a long-term, ambitious plan initiated by Vision 2040 founded on innovation,
integration of roles and equal opportunities to build a productive and diversified economy. Under joint
actions by the government, private sector and civil society, Oman is shaping its future building on its
heritage, values and competitive advantages.  

The global space sector is heading towards the inception of a new era that, under the impulsion of
the newspace revolution, will be marked by democratized access to space-based solutions, a new
ecosystem of stakeholders and renewed government ambitions to serve global agendas.

As emerging space nations expand globally, motivated by the variety of socio-economic returns that
space activities can generate, it is crucial for Oman to begin its space journey, building on its national
assets that makes it unique in the region and worldwide.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

Strategic location​ Open diplomacy

Best in the region & regulations​
to undertake space Facilitating cooperation,
activities and dialogue and business
deploy associated with international
infrastructures Oman key partners​
competitive
advantages
to become the new
space gateway​
Advanced ICT Knowledge
infrastructure ​ based society​
As a ground base Nurturing Omanis’ culture
to develop space of innovation, engineering
applications and networks ​ skills and digital economy​

Several initiatives have taken place already paving the way for the development of Oman’s space-
based capabilities. This is particularly true in the satellite communication and Earth observation
domains where Omani organizations have built internationally recognized expertise and excellence.
Oman’s government fully recognizes the vital importance of the space sector to stimulate national
development as the Royal Decree 90/2020 mandated the formulation of the National Space Program.
It is now time to act and pursue more ambitious goals for Oman’s space sector, taking advantage of
26 global opportunities and leveraging the full potential of our nation and its people.
 27
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
 The executive
Program for The
Omani Space Sector
The executive program aims to sup-
port the Sultanate of Oman’s vision
in the field of the space sector with
its various sciences, technologies, ap-
plications and services. The positive
results of the sector for the country
within 10 years will be determined
through partnership in implemen-
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

ting various projects and initiatives.

28
 29
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
 Oman’s Space Market:
Downstream Applications
With no or marginal activities upstream so far, the Oman space market
is essentially concentrated downstream. It is estimated at $155M in
2021 with Satcom and Satnav services representing 95% of total mar-
ket value. These figures are based on consultation and requires additio-
nal stakeholders’ input to be collected in Phase 3.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

• With no government or commercial satellite in development or pro-

cured, Oman’s “space” market remains marginal upstream with no
known revenues generated in 2021 and in the recent past.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

MARKET VALUE DOWNSTREAM:

• All applications combined, commercial revenues related to satellite

operations and services are estimated at $144M in 2021, based on as-
sumptions as no detailed information were provided to us by stakehol-
ders. Satnav is a particular case representing 80% of the market value,
entirely derived from services & equipment sales and not generated by
Oman-based companies but foreign GNSS applications available in the
country (e.g. LBS, road). Satcom accounts for 18% driven by connecti-
vity (such as rural broadband). Most revenues are generated by Oman
companies (SCT, Omantel…).EO is estimated at $3M in 2021, i.e. 2% of
Oman’s satellite market.

30
Project Selection Criteria
The executive program projects for the sector were proposed and eva-
luated based on several criteria, the most important of which is the contri-
bution of the project to the development of the sector, harmony with
other sectors projects, attracting investments in the sector and ease of
implementation:

Selection Criteria

MARKET FDI JOB CREATION

SIZE

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
ECONOMIC STRATEGIC PROJECTS
DIVERSIFICATION VALUE SYNERGIES

AFFORDABILITY EASE OF
EXECUTION

31
 Space Executive Program:
Projects and Initiatives
14 projects and investment opportunities have been identified as part of Oman’s
future space program. They all pursue, at different levels, objectives set by Oman’s
Space Policy Pillars. Most projects align with several pillars with capability building
and economic diversification coming first. 8 projects are quick wins.

Economic Capability National Environment

diversification building security & natural
resources

Space Cloud Partnership    

Satellite ground station hub    
Direct receiving station    
National Space Data Platform    
End user applications booster program (Sandbox)    
Center of Excellence for space applications    
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

Cubesat project    
Space Accelerator    
National space observatory    
World conference    
Satellite R&D program    
National Satcom Initiative (2 options)    
Regional Satnav augmentation system    
Launch site partnership    

Quick win
Core projects Non-core projects
Must have to pursue Would accelerate Oman’s
Omani space sector space sector development
development.

32
Program Implementation
Roadmap a 3 Phase Approach
The 10Y space program is divided in 3 phases to gradually develop
and build up domestic capabilities, starting with the development of
downstream activities and moving progressively upstream.

PHASE 1 : IGNITION • End user applications booster program

• National Space Data Platform
Year 1 • Incubation Program
Support development of space- • World conference
based applications by stimula- • Center of Excellence for space applications
ting the national ecosystem of • Space Cloud Partnership
service providers and national • Ground stations hub
Year 2 • Direct receiving station
market expansion
• National Cubesat program

Year 3
PHASE 2 : LIFT-OFF

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
Year 4 Develop the required in- • National Satcom initiative
frastructure (in space and on • National Space Observatory
the ground) to support expand
Oman’s space sector capabilities
Year 5 and business opportunities

Year 6

Year 7

PHASE 3 : ORBITING
Year 8
Prepare Oman’s space sector • Regional Satnav augmentation system
for its next development cycle • Launch site partnership
by starting investments in more • Satellite R&D Program
Year 9 complex systems and capabili-
ties

Year 10
33
 Investment Opportunities
Space Cloud Partnership
Gateway to Space Data

Partner with a world class leading space and cloud partners to develop and
deliver space-based cloud (satellite sourced data) service ecosystem that
is intersecting with the edge computing and data analytics. The ecosystem
will contribute to develop downstream space industry- the development of
space applications and services in Oman.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

This project will enable the de-

velopment of the space sector
through the followings:

• Provide an ecosystem for

digital application develop-
ment
• Allows local entrepreneurs
to get access to solutions de-
veloped by the space-cloud
provider for stimulating
space applications develop-
ment
• Facilitate access to qualified
space data
• Support the development of
local skills and workforce

34
Investment Opportunities

Ground Stations (GS) Hub

This project is mainly based on the advantage of the strategic location of

Oman with respect to the equator for hosting GS for satellite operators or
for companies that intends to provide GS as a service (GSaS) for satellite
operators.

In addition to the strategic location, Oman has a set of 21 submarine cables

that could easily link in real-time the data downloaded from satellites to
end users, or to develop data analytics services in the country and offer the
final products, including solutions or applications, for the end users.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
This project will enable the de-
velopment of the space sector
through the followings:

• Facilitate space-oriented
technology and knowledge
transfer by allowing foreign
satellite operators to benefit
from a strategic locations
for their satellite systems
• Provide an ecosystem for
development of digital appli-
cations
• Establish Oman as a space
gateway in the region
• Enhance the utilization of
space-ground telecom in-
frastructure including sub-
marine-cables
• Support the development of
local skills and workforce.
35
 Investment Opportunities

Direct Receiving Station

This project aims to attract foreign satellite operators to establish their

DRS in Oman while allowing Omani users to access data received through
the station.

The foreign partners will benefit from volume of data needs in Oman which
is profitable through long term contracts with Government and private sec-
tors.

Moreover, Omani users will benefit from real-time data for development of
applications and solution. This project intersects with the Ground Stations
as Services (GSaS) project.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

This project will enable the de-

velopment of the space sector
through the followings:

• Facilitate and accelerate

data downlink in Earth Ob-
servation
• Develop services with more
rapid response for critical
issues such as disaster mana-
gement or agriculture
• Autonomy without capex
required to launch an EO
satellite
• Develop capabilities in EO
ground operations

36
Investment Opportunities

National Space Data Platform

This project aims to provide the EO sector with a state-of-the-art digital

platform to gather, process and share data fostering applications and eco-
system development. The national space data platform is the EO strategy
backbone to build a national capacity in downstream sector to support di-
gitalization and economic diversification. The platform will be accessed by
public and private sectors, researchers and partners.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
This project will enable the de-
velopment of the space sector
through the followings:

• Coordinate efforts and avoid

duplication of initiatives with
the country and open the
market for foreign invest-
ment.
• Set up a fertile ground for
EO service providers
• Boost innovative solutions
development across econo-
mic sectors.
• Pave the way for digitaliza-
tion of the EO sector

37
 Investment Opportunities

End-user Applications Booster Program

(Sandboxing)
The main objective of this project is to encourage key economic sectors to
use space-based solutions via pilot and demonstration projects supporting
the development of national service providers. As well, it supports develo-
pers and end users (from key industrial sectors such as O&G, agriculture,
maritime, urban planning, etc.) to develop and use satellite-based solutions
(EO, satcom and others). Besides, it provide the best environment to build
and demonstrate applications and services (using EO data, AIS, IoT…) with a
rapid go-to-market strategy.
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

This project will enable the de-

velopment of the space sector
through the followings:

• Develop innovative solutions

matching key industrials
needs
• Support job creation and pri-
vate sector entrepreneurship
and start-ups
• Boost technology transfer
from academics to private
sector
• Raise expertise and know-
how in space sector
• Expedite commercial solu-
tions to local and internatio-
nal market.

38
Investment Opportunities

Launch Site Partnership

Leverages on Oman’s best location in MEA for launch activities and relies
on a partner’s investment. The project aims to attract foreign partners to
establish in Oman the first MEA regional spaceport. This port will server
the region commercial and research needs. The project would help foster
regional cooperation in space, be a source of prestige, help to position our
partners as a major space hub service provider in the region.

Oman can use its favorable diplomatic position to favor its implementation
and foster regional cooperation through shared infrastructure and funding.

Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
This project will enable the de-
velopment of the space sector
through the followings:

• Attract FDI from foreign

partners, enabler of interna-
tional cooperation
• Source of prestige enabling
our partners to access to
space capability
• Position our partners and
the country as a key facilita-
tor for regional cooperation
in space and as the regional
“gateway to space”
• Accelerate local/partner and
investors space capability
development

39
 Future
FURTHERImpacts
IMPACTS
of Omani
OF OMANI
Space
SPACE Program
PROGRAM
Oman entering the space age has numerous other positive impacts beyond
the space sector revenue, job creation and GDP impact.

ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION
Develops new business opportunities
and international channels

STRENGTHEN SOVEREIGNTY
Reduces dependences on critical
foreign technologies & assets
FACE CLIMATE CHANGE
Improves ability to anticipate and
address disaster management
NATIONAL PRIDE
Drives Omani unity and
national pride
PREPARE THE FUTURE
Develops tomorrow’s
technologies

QUALITY OF LIFE
Improves everyday life
of the population INSPIRE OMANI YOUNGER GENERATIONS
Generate interest for science careers and
foster vocations

DIPLOMACY AND PRESTIGE

Grows Oman’s soft power on
international stage

ENABLE OTHER SECTORS’ GROWTH

Multiple synergies with other parts
of the economy

40
 41
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy
National Center for Space
Advanced Technology and AI

[email protected]
42
Oman Space Policy and Executive Program | Gateway to a sustainable digital economy

mtcit.gov.om
Website

@MTCITOMAN