Oman’s MBSAT and France’s Telespazio Unite: Implications for Business Growth in the Space Industry
MUSCAT: Oman’s Mohammed Al Barwani Satellites (MBSAT) LLC, the space and satellite communications division of the Mohammed Al Barwani Group, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Telespazio France, a prominent provider of satellite communications and space data services in Europe.
This agreement was formalized during His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s recent visit to France.
MBSAT emphasized that “this partnership marks a significant advancement in developing satellite communications services, exploring new opportunities within the space sector, and enhancing cooperation between Oman and France.” According to the company, it will also support the digital economy—a vital component of Oman Vision 2040—while creating broader market opportunities across the Middle East and Europe.
Said Al Jabri, Chief Executive Officer of MB LLC, remarked, “This partnership underscores MB Group’s strategic vision to diversify our investment portfolio and venture into innovative, future-focused industries. France stands as a global leader in space and satellite services, making it an ideal collaborator for accessing world-class expertise. Additionally, this collaboration aligns with Oman’s national goals to solidify its position in the global space economy while fostering local capabilities and delivering long-term value for the Sultanate.”
Ammar Al Rawahi, a Space Expert at MBSAT, noted, “This collaboration signifies a substantial step toward reinforcing international space partnerships. In conjunction with Telespazio and other leading French space companies, we are enhancing satellite communication solutions and services while increasing the region’s appeal for space partnerships and investments. This initiative reflects the private sector’s dedication to supporting Oman’s national priorities and advancing a robust regional space economy.”
Telespazio, a joint venture between Leonardo (67%) and Thales (33%), is a key player in satellite services globally. With over three decades of expertise in satellite operations infrastructure, Telespazio France is at the forefront of providing space services.
Founded in 2024, MBSAT aims to cultivate sovereign satellite capabilities for Oman and its surrounding regions. Earlier this year, the company formed a partnership with Astranis, a leader in small geostationary communications satellites, to launch Oman’s inaugural dedicated MicroGEO satellite.
This contract with Astranis is part of a $200 million investment by MB Group targeted at Oman’s Vision 2040 initiatives in this sector, covering the dedicated MicroGEO satellite, ground stations, and other related infrastructure. The proposed network by Astranis would grant Oman sovereign control over its digital infrastructure.
In addition to satellite ownership, MBSAT aims to offer secure broadband connectivity, enterprise and government communications, and other space-based digital services, reinforcing Oman’s ambition to establish a domestic space industry and enhance its presence in the global space economy.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The recent MoU between MBSAT and Telespazio France signals a significant evolution in Oman’s space sector, poised to enhance satellite communications and fulfill Oman Vision 2040’s digital economy goals. For businesses, this partnership opens opportunities for investment and collaboration in technology-driven industries while smart investors should consider the competitive edge of being early adopters in a burgeoning market that promises to secure digital infrastructure and foster local capabilities. However, they must remain vigilant of the risks associated with rapid technological shifts and the need for skilled talent in this specialized field.
