Riyadh - The Communications and Information Technology Commission announced the date of holding the first auction of its kind globally in the frequency band (2100) MHz for non-terrestrial networks (NTN) for the fifth generation, on August 23, while a document of information and rules of the auction will be published. On the 26th of next June, within the plan for the commercial and innovative use of the frequency spectrum 2021-2023, and the strategic direction of the authority to enable modern generation technologies from non-terrestrial networks.

The authority explained that holding the auction enhances its roles as a digital regulator enabling the adoption of emerging wireless technologies and digital transformation in the Kingdom, which will allow coverage of remote sites in the Kingdom with modern technologies for non-terrestrial networks, and that licensing frequencies through the auction will enable the public to obtain high-speed Internet services in aircraft. , in alignment with the National Frequency Spectrum Strategy (2020-2025).

The authority indicated that holding the auction comes within a regulatory environment that stimulates investments in the sector and enhances the efficiency of the distribution and use of the frequency spectrum in the Kingdom, as the frequencies offered in the auction will contribute to the adoption of modern technologies from non-terrestrial networks such as the fifth generation via satellite, mobile communications via satellite, and the Internet on Aircraft, as well as the Internet of Things via satellite, high-altitude and low-altitude platforms, and 5G terrestrial and satellite (MSS/CGC) component integration.

The Communications and Information Technology Commission invites all investors and those interested in the field of non-terrestrial networks locally and internationally to participate in the auction of non-terrestrial networks, and to invest in these modern technologies to enhance wireless services provided to the public in the Kingdom.

It is noteworthy that the authority published, during the past year 2021, a public opinion survey document on the design of the auction of non-terrestrial networks, and according to the results of the survey, the authority set the date of holding the auction.

(NTN) and its conditions after consulting with local and international bodies interested in this field.