TRA holds a workshop on the process of submitting satellite network filings

Mobilk - The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) held a workshop to publicize regulatory requirements and procedures for the submission of filings related to satellite networks and launching of space satellites, in cooperation with representatives of Al Yah Satellite Communications Company and Thuraya Telecommunications Company, at TRAs HQ in Dubai.

More than 20 participants participated in the workshop and they represented the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center (MBRSC), American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Khalifa University, New York University – Abu Dhabi, American University of Sharjah and the National Space Science and Technology Center at UAE University.

The workshop aimed at introducing procedures followed by the TRA and ITU to provide satellite network filings and all other requirements related to such procedures. The workshop also opened the door to listen to the participants wishing to present an overview of their existing projects and future plans in the space sector.

The workshop began with an introduction of the General Authority for Regulating the Telecommunications Sector, its achievements, and what it seeks to achieve during the next phase. Participants were then briefed about the role of Spectrum Department in regulating UAEs space sector, as well as frequency coordination and licensing procedures for all radio services. Further, the workshop addressed procedures followed by the ITU on the registration of satellite network filings in ITU records. At the end of the workshop, the representatives of Khalifa University, American University of Ras Al Khaimah and the New York University Abu Dhabi presented an overview of their current and future space programs and projects.

On this occasion, Eng. Tariq Al Awadhi, Executive Director of Spectrum Affairs Department, said: "This workshop is part of the efforts of the TRA, in line with the directives of UAEs wise leadership and UAE Vision 2021, aimed at increased cooperation and coordination with education providers in the country to develop their educational programs in compliance with ICT sector requirements, by graduating human resources capable of dealing with the next stage, which includes 5G deployment, and 4IR integration (era of artificial intelligence). The above would enable the UAE to achieve its global competitiveness targets, especially its stated goal of becoming number one in the world in m-government services, and among the top 10 in ICT infrastructure readiness."

Al Awadhi added: "At the workshop, participants learned about the most important frequency spectrum procedures and how to obtain licenses. Through the projects presented by the representatives of participating universities, we have seen the advanced level of UAE universities in the field of ICT and space sciences, which makes us confident that we are on the right track in qualifying a generation of young people capable of meeting future demands to ensure the continued development of the UAE.

The TRA has always sought to develop national human resources in the field of ICT by launching several important workshops and initiatives, such as the ICT Fund and "Betha" program, among others, as part of its tireless efforts to create a knowledge-based, self-efficient economy, transform the ICT sector into a main branch of UAE economy, and make it a source of income for the country, thus bringing greater prosperity for the people of the UAE.