Saudi Arabia’s space sector soars with strategic initiatives

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s bid to become a leading player in the global space industry gained momentum with the recent unveiling of Neo Space Group, a strategic initiative to foster private sector growth. 

Backed by the Public Investment Fund, the group will invest in local and international assets, venture capital opportunities, and cutting-edge technologies to advance the sector, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals. 

NSG aims to bolster the nation’s position in the global space economy by developing local capabilities and providing innovative satellite and space solutions. 

The development, spearheaded by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission and the Saudi Space Agency, has garnered positive reactions from industry leaders and local talent, all of whom see immense potential in the Kingdom’s burgeoning space ambitions. 

In an interview with Arab News, Amar Vora, head of space at Serco Middle East, expressed strong support for the establishment of NSG, calling it a “bold step forward” that will stimulate the growth of the private space sector in Saudi Arabia. 

“The establishment of the NSG is a welcomed move that will champion growth for the private space sector in the Kingdom,” Vora said. “By working with CST and SSA, the establishment of the NSG will help unlock strategic investments and partnerships with the commercial sector that are aligned with national priorities.”

Serco, a global firm headquartered in Dubai with over 40 years of experience in the space industry, is committed to localizing its services in Saudi Arabia. “We are committed to transferring our knowledge and know-how from our international space business into the Kingdom through our training programs,” Vora added. 

“Our role as a service integrator means that we look to collaborate with innovative companies (small to large) to deliver services across the industry,” he also said. 

The emphasis on developing a robust value and supply chain within Saudi Arabia is seen as crucial for accelerating the sector’s sustainability. 

Vora highlighted the importance of investments in localization and startups across key segments of the space sector, which will help build a dynamic local ecosystem. 

“Going forward, building up the value and supply chain in the Kingdom is essential to accelerate the long-term sustainability of the sector,” he said, adding: “Importantly, NSG’s investments into localization and startups across key segments of the space sector will facilitate the growth of the local ecosystem.”   

Investing in national talent is another cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to advance its space industry, and Vora stressed the dual benefits of such investments, addressing both immediate industry needs and long-term growth.  

He added: “Investing in national talent benefits both the immediate needs of the growing space industry and its long-term growth, stability, and success.”  

Vora said that enhancing the skill set of future professionals is expected to bolster the economy by creating a proficient workforce for high-tech jobs. The sector’s growth will provide ample opportunities, with local talent preserving intellectual capital within the Kingdom.  

Speaking to Arab News, Sarah Alhabbas, a graduate of Serco’s Space Graduate Program, shared her journey and shed light on the positive impact of investing in local talent. 

“When I heard that hundreds of nationals had applied to Serco’s Space Graduate Program, I was very proud to have been selected,” Alhabbas said.  

She added: “When I joined, I gained some great insights into what the company’s strategy was and how that relates to Saudi Vision 2030, and I was able to learn more about the actions being put into place to live out the company’s purpose of impacting a better future.” 

As a participant in Serco’s Space Graduate Program, Alhabbas undertook an intensive six-month course at Serco’s COP-2 facilities in Darmstadt, Germany, where she enhanced her theoretical knowledge with practical applications and insights from industry experts. 

“I am excited about transferring that knowledge back to my colleagues and partners in Saudi Arabia after I graduate from the program in the summer,” she said. 

Alhabbas underscored the importance of investing in Saudi talent for the long-term sustainability and growth of the space industry. 

“(Investing in local talent) will help unleash the potential and capabilities of Saudi talent, which can also inspire future generations’ interest in the sector,” she said. 

The graduate added that a strong understanding is crucial “to move toward a more knowledge-based economy to attract investment and lead to economic growth.” 

We are committed to transferring our knowledge and know-how from our international space business into the Kingdom through our training programs.

Amar Vora, head of space at Serco Middle East

As a woman in the field of space technology, Alhabbas has encountered and overcome various barriers, particularly in networking. “One barrier that I encountered at the beginning was the networking challenge; at events, females were in the minority.” 

Alhabbas also joined the space training program offered by CST, which has broadened her knowledge and connections within the sector. 

“The sector has been evolving significantly, especially in Saudi, and more women are exploring their interest and getting involved in space, and I hope I can help to inspire,” she said. “The space courses offered by CST are giving me the chance to meet women who are interested in entering this field which is of real benefit.” 

Alhabbas praised the government’s support for women’s education and training in space technology and said: “There is also much government support for this, with policies being implemented and programs to support women’s education and training.” 

Role models like Saudi’s first female astronaut, Rayyanah Barnawi, play a pivotal role in inspiring future generations. Barnawi has “shed light on the possibilities and capabilities of women in the field; she has truly inspired the future generation.” 

Looking to the future, Alhabbas aims to become a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and space ambassador in Saudi Arabia. “There’s a tremendous opportunity that lies ahead, and I’m proud to be part of it,” she said. 

The graduate expressed her ambition to encourage more talent from future generations to consider a role in the space industry, calling on private and public sector entities to work together to showcase the various career paths available. 

With initiatives like the NSG and the commitment of companies like Serco, Saudi Arabia’s space sector is on a trajectory of significant advancements. 

Strategic partnerships, a focus on national talent development, and government support are set to propel the Kingdom into a new era of space exploration and innovation.