Global Forum 2024: Connecting the World from the Skies Ends with Greater Connectivity Insights

Conclusion of Global Forum 2024: Connecting the World from the Skies

On November 26, 2024, the second Global Forum titled 'Connecting the World from the Skies' successfully concluded in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This pivotal event brought together a diverse global community of experts, featuring 82 speakers, including 16 CEOs and representatives from regulatory bodies. The forum was orchestrated by the Saudi Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Under the theme 'Shaping the Future of Converged Connectivity', the forum aimed to delve into cutting-edge advancements in connectivity, highlighting the immense potential of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, the CST Governor, emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to bridging the digital divide and bringing internet access to those without it, showcasing the nation’s drive to unite global efforts for humanitarian benefit.

A key highlight was the discussion titled 'A Global Vision for the Future of NTN Connectivity', which focused on the crucial role NTN plays in creating seamless global connectivity. Industry leaders shared insightful perspectives on developing integrated communication networks that transcend geographical borders. Carlos Baigorri, President of Anatel, underscored the importance of international collaboration for equitable regulation and substantive participation in discussions regarding space as a global common good. Furthermore, Aarti Holla-Maini, Director of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, stressed the necessity of considering bandwidth, cost, and service quality when evaluating NTN technologies. She pointed out that higher bandwidth is essential for applications requiring stable and reliable services, especially in critical business scenarios.

The forum also marked a significant milestone in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with the first Direct-to-Device (D2D) trial, where smart devices, compliant with 3GPP Release 17 standards, connected directly to satellites. This initiative aims to facilitate data transmission and reception in previously unconnected areas, fostering global investments and local advancements in NTN technologies.

Additionally, the forum hosted the second edition of the international research competition focused on NTN for 6G technologies, attracting over 170 researchers and academics from 30 nations. This initiative, in cooperation with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), seeks to encourage innovative solutions and advance scientific research in the realm of non-terrestrial networks. The top three entries were acknowledged during the event, highlighting their contributions to the future of 6G technology.

Discussions during the forum concentrated on a variety of critical topics such as the seamless connection between devices, aligning global NTN visions for WRC-27 and beyond, unlocking the potential of D2D connectivity, leveraging global connectivity through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) networks, realizing sustainability in and from space, and forecasting the future of the space economy.

For more comprehensive insights about the forum and its outcomes, please visit www.ConnectingFromTheSkies.com or reach out to the media contact provided.

This forum exemplifies how innovations and collaborative efforts in NTN can reshape the landscape of global connectivity, making strides towards a more inclusive digital future.