Riyadh will host the Global Space Connectivity and Sustainability Event 2026 from October 12 to 14, under the theme “Connected World, Sustainable Space.”
Organized by Saudi Arabia's Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the three-day event will take place at CST headquarters.
The event will be held under the patronage of Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of CST's Board of Directors.
It brings together the third editions of the International Non-Terrestrial Networks Forum (NTN) and the Space Sustainability Forum (SSF), creating a unified platform for discussions on satellite connectivity, advanced communications and responsible space operations.
6G and Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity
The event will explore the future of integrated terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, with particular emphasis on sixth-generation communications technology (6G).
Sessions will address emerging direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, examining how satellites can extend mobile communications coverage and help bridge the global digital divide.
The agenda will also consider regulatory and technical preparations for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 (WRC-27).
Space Sustainability and Orbital Management
Another major focus will be the long-term sustainability of space activities, including orbital congestion, radio-frequency interference and the prevention of space debris.
Discussions will cover global governance, responsible behavior in space, emerging space markets and the role of space infrastructure in supporting economic development and environmental sustainability.
Technology Demonstrations and Research Innovation
The program will feature results from technical trials and emerging solutions involving non-terrestrial communications networks.
It will also include the announcement of winners of the NTN 2026 Global Research Competition, organized by CST in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
The competition aims to encourage research and innovation in advanced non-terrestrial networking technologies.
Registration
Interested participants can find event information and registration details through the
official event website
