Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: stc group and AST SpaceMobile, the US-based company building the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network for standard smartphones, signed a 10-year commercial agreement to deliver direct-to-device satellite mobile connectivity across Saudi Arabia and select regional markets.

As part of the deal, stc will make a $175 million prepayment for future services and commit to a long-term commercial partnership, according to a recent press release.

The collaboration will integrate AST SpaceMobile’s satellite network with stc’s terrestrial infrastructure to extend 4G and 5G coverage to remote and underserved areas—without the need for specialized devices or software.

Under the agreement, AST SpaceMobile will build three ground gateways and a Network Operations Center (NOC) in Riyadh to support operations and ensure high-quality connectivity.

Abel Avellan, AST SpaceMobile Founder and CEO, said the partnership represents a “paradigm shift in how people connect,” highlighting stc’s leadership in adopting innovative technologies. Olayan Alwetaid, stc Group CEO, added that the collaboration reflects the company’s ambition to deliver “world-class connectivity access to everyone, no matter where they are.”

The initiative positions stc as the first operator in the MENA region to adopt direct-to-device satellite broadband technology. Commercial services are expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval from the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and other authorities.