#Global Forum #Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Connectivity Innovation #Non-Terrestrial Networks

Revolutionizing Global Connectivity

On November 26, 2024, the second Global Forum titled Connecting the World from the Skies successfully wrapped up in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event brought together a global community of experts, featuring 82 speakers and attendees, including 16 CEOs and 9 regulatory officials. With a theme focused on shaping the future of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and enhancing connectivity, the forum explored the potential impacts and applications of NTN technologies.

H.E. Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, the Governor of the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) in Saudi Arabia, emphasized the importance of united global efforts to connect underserved populations and bridge the digital divide. "Saudi Arabia is dedicated to collaborative efforts aimed at connecting the disconnected, all for the betterment of humanity," Altamimi stated.

The forum’s main discussion panel, titled A Global Vision for the Future of NTN, addressed the crucial role of NTN in establishing seamless global connectivity. Distinguished leaders and experts shared their insights on designing integrated communication networks that transcend geographical borders. Carlos Baigorri, President of Anatel, highlighted the necessity of global collaboration to ensure equitable regulation and inclusive participation in discussions surrounding space as a shared global asset. Aarti Holla-Maini, the Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, pointed out three key factors to consider when assessing NTN technologies: bandwidth, cost, and service quality, stressing that increased bandwidth is essential for applications demanding stable and reliable services, especially in mission-critical use cases.

The forum also marked a significant milestone with the first of its kind Direct Device-to-Device (D2D) connection test in the Middle East and North Africa. This involved connecting smart devices compliant with the 3GPP Release 17 standards to a satellite, facilitating data transmission and reception in unconnected regions. This experimental initiative aimed to connect remote areas, advance NTN technologies, attract global investments, and stimulate local investment in the NTN sector.

In addition to discussions on technological advancements, the forum hosted the second edition of the International Research Competition focused on NTN for 6G, which drew participation from over 170 researchers and academics across 30 countries. The competition, organized in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), seeks to promote innovative solutions and support scientific research in NTN technology. The three top proposals were honored at the forum for their significant contributions to advancing 6G technology.

Key topics discussed included seamless D2D connectivity, aligning global visions for NTNs for WRC-27 and beyond, unlocking the potential of D2D connectivity, global access through LEO networks, delivering sustainability from space, and revealing the future of the space economy.

For more information about the forum and its outcomes, please visit www.ConnectingFromTheSkies.com.

For media inquiries, contact Samer Daraz at +966 53 830 9036 or via email at [email protected].