The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), in cooperation with the ITU, held the “ITU Workshop for Satellite Operators & Academia in the UAE” on procedures and regulations of non-geostationary satellite systems.
The three-day workshop held at TDRA's headquarters in Dubai was attended by 50 participants from nine different entities: Al Yah Satellite Communication Company (Yahsat), Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), National Space Science & Technology Center (NSSTC), Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology (SAASST), Khalifa University, Marshall Intech, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain and Bahrain's National Space Science Agency (NSSA).
The workshop particularly targeted satellite operators, academia and other relevant organizations in the UAE that already have or own space and satellite launch projects, requiring particular knowledge of ITU procedures and regulations related to satellite networks and systems.
Hands-on training was provided with respect to ITU software and systems for the creation of various satellite network filings and the advantages of joining the ITU as Sector Member or academic body, in addition to detailed information on space services and some other relevant topics.
The workshop, presented by ITU experts, helped participants enhance their knowledge of regulatory procedures of satellite system and network filings to develop their current and future space projects, which would contribute to capacity building and enhance the UAE’s position in the space sector.
In his speech at the opening of the workshop, Eng. Tariq al-Awadhi, executive director, spectrum affairs, welcomed the participants, saying: “This workshop is one of the events through which TDRA aims to raise awareness on the importance of the space sector and introduce those interested to the ITU procedures and regulations adopted by all other state administrations. The popular and modern technology offered by satellite systems nowadays encourage us all to prepare and improve our capabilities in order for us to be proactive in this field and co-develop such technologies to the benefit of our country in particular and the world in general.”
Mr. al-Awadhi thanked the ITU for their constant cooperation with TDRA in many events, adding: “We thank the ITU for participating in this event aimed at developing UAE’s space sector and invite all participants to strengthen their ties with the ITU staff and build meaningful relationships with all in order to exchange knowledge and achieve fruitful cooperation.”
Workshop participants learned about the importance of the academic sector in strengthening the capacity of the space sector, potentially leading to new space projects. Participants also benefited from ITU experts to learn about different aspects of the Radio Regulations and get hands-on experience with the ITU software.
The UAE encourages various organizations to enter the space sector, as reflected in the development of initiatives and projects that brought about satellite launches for scientific, exploratory purposes and other space-based services.