Oman’s MB Group Targets $200M in Space Investments: Implications for Entrepreneurs and Investors in the Region
Muscat: The Mohammed Al Barwani Group in Oman is expanding its operations from satellite ground-station services to owning dedicated satellite capacity. This initiative is seen as a strategic move toward enhancing data connectivity and gaining greater control over essential communications infrastructure, according to Chief Executive Officer Said bin Saleh al Jabri.
“We started with the idea of ground services,” al Jabri remarked. “But as we delved deeper, we asked ourselves: why stop there? Why not own the satellite itself?”
This statement follows the announcement on January 26 that MB Group has signed a contract with San Francisco-based Astranis to deliver Oman’s first dedicated MicroGEO communications satellite. The satellite is set to be launched under Astranis’ Block 3 mission with SpaceX later in 2026, with services expected to begin in early 2027.
Al Jabri noted that this project signifies a broader transformation for a conglomerate traditionally recognized for its oil and gas operations. The group has diversified into various sectors over recent years and is now focusing on technology, believing that future growth will hinge on connectivity and data utilization across multiple industries.
The venture began with ground infrastructure. Al Jabri explained that MB Group has been exploring options since last year, leveraging insights from other providers in the space sector, particularly in military and security applications. After investigating “ground service” opportunities, including a stake in an existing business, the group determined that owning the space asset itself would provide a quicker and more definitive path to establishing a strong position in satellite communications.
He acknowledged the inherent risks of this move: “Many specialists cautioned us about taking a big risk.” However, he believes the market opportunity is expanding, and this investment is intended to serve as a foundational platform rather than a singular acquisition.
From an economic perspective, al Jabri detailed that the satellite represents an investment exceeding $100 million, not including additional expenses for ground infrastructure and supporting systems. He anticipates that MB Group’s overall spending on space initiatives will surpass $200 million in the coming years, aligning with the financial framework mentioned in the announcement, which encompasses the satellite, ground stations, and supplementary digital infrastructure.
While the satellite is dedicated to Oman, al Jabri indicated a regional business model, suggesting that Oman may not fully utilize the satellite’s entire capacity. The remainder will be marketed to neighboring markets, with an initial commercial focus on Oman, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia.
Astranis describes its MicroGEO satellites as smaller, high-orbit spacecraft aimed at providing dedicated broadband capacity to a single customer, rather than distributing shared bandwidth among multiple users. The MB Group–Astranis agreement aims to furnish Oman with a dedicated network model, giving the nation full control over its digital infrastructure.
Al Jabri emphasized the importance of complete ownership for operational flexibility, especially for critical users. In shared-capacity models, he noted, customers can only access a portion of the capacity alongside other users. “If we own the entire satellite, it becomes easier to allocate specific portions for essential uses, such as security, without involving any third parties,” he explained.
The group anticipates that the rocket launch will occur before the end of 2026, with the satellite expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2027 following its commissioning in orbit. Al Jabri also hinted at future missions, indicating plans for additional satellites as the group gains experience in this field.
“We are still learning,” he stated, adding that more details would be shared as the launch date approaches and operational readiness is established.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s Mohammed Al Barwani Group’s strategic shift to owning dedicated satellite capacity heralds a significant evolution in the region’s technology landscape, presenting new opportunities for data connectivity. This move not only positions the group as a leader in telecommunications but also entails risks associated with high capital investments exceeding $200 million. Smart investors should closely monitor the evolving landscape and consider potential partnerships in other sectors that rely on enhanced connectivity and data services, particularly as the regional market expands beyond Oman.
