Saudi Arabia and the UAE: Telecommunications regulatory developments – 2026 outlook

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Spectrum Outlook for commercial and innovative use

Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) published its Spectrum Outlook for Commercial and Innovative Use, a strategic initiative reflecting CST's ongoing efforts to strengthen the Kingdom's leadership in advanced wireless technologies, enhance digital infrastructure, and build a prosperous and sustainable digital economy. The plan aims to optimise the use of the radio spectrum as a key enabler of digital transformation, economic growth, and global competitiveness for the Kingdom. The outlook encompasses support for non-terrestrial networks, expansion of spectrum for public telecommunications networks, fixed wireless access, spectrum trading, and 6G network research. This comprehensive framework positions Saudi Arabia at the forefront of next-generation telecommunications infrastructure, with significant implications for industrial, logistics, and transportation sectors seeking private network capabilities and IoT connectivity.

The Outlook is expected to benefit multiple sectors by enabling advanced solutions and supporting the Kingdom's readiness to host major global events that require intensive spectrum use. Additionally, it will support public telecommunications networks by providing the necessary frequencies to ensure service quality and expand coverage. The strategic objectives encompass several key priorities. The outlook aims to support the deployment of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and satellite applications, expand the available radio spectrum for public telecommunications networks, and enable Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). It promotes more efficient spectrum use through light licensing models and Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC), which will allow Wi-Fi networks to operate effectively outdoors. Enabling the industrial and logistics sectors is a priority, by allocating spectrum for private networks and Internet of Things (IoT), also supporting innovative wireless technologies in the transportation sector, promoting spectrum trading, and fostering a rich environment for research and innovation, particularly for 6G networks. These efforts are expected to strengthen the Kingdom's position as a global hub for digital investment and boost effective partnerships between the public and private sectors, marking a qualitative leap toward a smart and sustainable future.

National Frequency Plan (NFP) public consultation

CST has invited the public to submit input on the national frequency plan document (NFP), which includes details of the allocation of the spectrum for radio services in Saudi Arabia, principles CST rely on in allocating the spectrum, as well as the access mechanism to frequency bands, relevant regulations, and international requirements. The consultation, which closes on 25 January 2026, represents CST's commitment to aligning national spectrum management with international developments and emerging wireless technologies. The updates encompass modifications to framework articles, national frequency allocation tables, and access mechanisms, whilst ensuring compliance with ITU Radio Regulations and WRC-23 outcomes. 

Through the public consultation, CST aims to ensure the optimal use of the spectrum, meet the needs of different national sectors, support the growing demand for spectrum, keep pace with developments in wireless technologies, and align with relevant international developments including the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23). In addition to enabling new and emerging wireless technologies, stimulating investment and innovation in wireless technologies across sectors by providing an attractive regulatory environment, the NFP updates address fundamental structural requirements. CST clarified that the proposed updates on the plan cover several key aspects, featuring modifications to the document's articles, goals, and the framework of the national frequency allocation table, as well as updates to the mechanism of accessing frequency bands in alignment with national needs and the growing demand for spectrum access. The updates also include updates to national allocations to ensure alignment with the approved international agreements, in accordance with the International Telecommunication Union's Radio Regulations. CST invites all interested stakeholders, both national and international, to provide their detailed inputs, supported by the necessary analytical studies, benchmarks, and other information no later than 25 January 2026.

6G frequency band trial (7 GHz)

CST has succeeded in conducting a trial for the 7 GHz frequency band, one of the key bands expected to be a launchpad for future 6G technologies. This marks the first trial of its kind in the MENA region, conducted in partnership with stc Group and Nokia. The successful trial underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to maintaining a leadership position in next-generation wireless technologies and positions the Kingdom as a key influencer in shaping international spectrum policies for 6G deployment expected later this decade. The futuristic trial aims to adopt the latest global technologies, confirm the Kingdom leading position in innovation and technology, and develop advanced solutions that keep pace with emerging technologies. The frequency band trial, ranging from 7.125 to 8.4 GHz, is considered one of the key candidate bands for 6G technologies. The trial also represents a practical step toward testing a new frequency range, which will strengthen CST role in shaping international spectrum policies and regulations. The trial is part of CST's strategic initiatives, aligning with the Kingdom's aspirations in the CST sector. It also underscores CST's regional and international leadership as an innovative regulator, enabling future technologies through partnerships that provide an advanced digital infrastructure.

UAE

In November 2025, the UAE's Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) officially launched its 6G initiative through the establishment of a dedicated 6G Committee, marking a strategic pivot towards next-generation telecommunications leadership. The initiative brings together federal and local government entities, telecommunications operators, universities, research centres, and global technology providers in a collaborative framework designed to position the UAE at the forefront of 6G development and deployment. Building on the UAE's successful 5G rollout (which achieved first-in-region commercial launch in 2019 and currently delivers 99.5% coverage across populated areas through over 23,000 sites serving more than 10 million subscribers) the 6G Committee represents a proactive approach to anticipating the post-5G era. The initiative encompasses five strategic pillars: enhancing national partnership collaboration, establishing research and innovation programmes through academic institutions, accelerating technology adoption in vital sectors, contributing to international 6G standards development, and creating an integrated regulatory framework with comprehensive spectrum management. Two specialised sub-committees have been established to operationalise these objectives: a Research and Development Working Group chaired by Dr Marwan Dabbah from Khalifa University, and an Integration and Strategic Partnerships Working Group led by Dr Khalid Al Awadhi from TDRA. This structure enables parallel advancement of technical innovation and ecosystem development. Looking forward, the initiative positions the UAE to influence global 6G standardisation processes, attract research and development investment, and establish itself as a regional hub for next-generation telecommunications testing and deployment. The emphasis on quantum computing, artificial intelligence integration, and satellite networks suggests the UAE is preparing for convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, cognitive communications systems, and ultra-low latency applications expected to characterise 6G deployment in the early 2030s.