Thuraya Mobile Satellite Communications Company, part of Abu Dhabi’s Space42, is venturing into the smartphone sector with its new Thuraya One Android 14 device. The company aims to tap into a global market for satellite-capable smartphones that could reach a value of $15 billion by 2033.

Thuraya, which has operated in the satellite sector since 1997, introduced its smartphone at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona earlier this month. The device not only connects to satellites but also interfaces with traditional mobile phone towers, expanding its usability.

Isam Arshad, a consultant for home and technology at Euromonitor International, noted that the growing market is fueled by increasing demand for connectivity in remote areas, government investments, and advancements in satellite technology. The global market for direct-to-device satellite connectivity is projected to rise from $1.5 billion to nearly $15 billion over the next decade, according to Euromonitor International’s research.

The Thuraya One smartphone relies on the Thuraya 4 satellite, which was launched this year, to provide its connectivity services. Arshad mentioned that both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are well-positioned for early adoption due to their vast remote areas and commitment to innovation in space and telecommunications.

Rishi Padhi, a principal analyst at Gartner, emphasized that the growth of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is essential for the industry, as these require less power and can deliver lower latency, making satellite connectivity more practical for everyday smartphone use.

Partnerships between satellite companies and tech firms are crucial for advancing the industry. Major players include Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Eutelsat, while technology companies like Apple are integrating satellite connectivity into their products to provide services like emergency SOS in areas lacking cellular coverage.

Through its initiatives with Space42 and Thuraya, Abu Dhabi seeks to establish a significant presence in this emerging market. Padhi stated that as partnerships evolve, they will drive rapid advancements in satellite communication technology, shaping the future of the satellite-enabled smartphone sector.