Thuraya Unveils Ambitious Blueprint for Future Satellite Constellation

DUBAI, UAE, 8 September 2016 – Renowned mobile satellite services (MSS) provider Thuraya Telecommunications Company today announced the completion of its next generation constellation strategy, poised to embark on an innovative, multidimensional expansion and diversification initiative.

Building on its solid legacy of product innovation and strategic position in the EMEA region, as well as an expanding footprint in Asia, Thuraya plans to broaden its geographical reach, penetrate new market segments, and introduce cutting-edge services and devices.

Thuraya’s L-band network is set for significant transformation. While existing satellites Thuraya-2 and Thuraya-3 will continue operating smoothly, the satellite coverage will be considerably enhanced with the expected launch of new generation satellites starting in 2020.

The upcoming system by Thuraya will concentrate on offering high mobility services in both existing and emerging markets. This will be supplemented with High Throughput Satellite (HTS) solutions to cater to bandwidth-intensive applications across land, maritime, and aviation sectors.

Samer Halawi, Chief Executive Officer of Thuraya, stated: “Thuraya is on track to become the preferred provider of unified connectivity through a comprehensive program of expansion and diversification. Our unmatched next generation L-band and complementary HTS solutions will serve as the foundation for our innovative, disruptive, and transformative vision. Our portfolio will evolve Thuraya into a central hub for L-band, HTS, IoT, and GSM products. New markets are now within our reach, and novel technological advancements will provide an extraordinary range of mobile offerings, applications, and services.”

Thuraya has already made significant strides in improving its business performance within its operational landscape. The team has successfully navigated challenges such as limited coverage, legacy constraints, and an intensely competitive market, consistently outperforming the MSS sector from 2011 to 2015.

The future strategy of Thuraya allows it to unveil its next generation initiatives against a backdrop of distinctive core strengths that reflect an understanding of emerging trends. Convergence stands out as a key focus, with the integration of terrestrial and satellite communications well-established at Thuraya. With over 360 roaming agreements with mobile network operators globally, users enjoy seamless device interoperability across Thuraya’s satellite network and GSM networks worldwide.

Building on its recognized excellence in innovation, Thuraya has crafted a roadmap for launching groundbreaking devices, terminals, and modules designed for enterprise, governmental, and consumer sectors. Thuraya clearly acknowledges the significance of effortless and convenient satellite connectivity for end-users. The introduction of the Thuraya SatSleeve exemplifies the Bring-Your-Own-Device concept in the satellite realm, showcasing both an understanding of consumer demand and the capability to offer products beyond conventional boundaries. This innovative approach is also echoed in recent ventures and partnerships within the consumer wearables domain, supported by a unique distribution model enhanced by online retail collaborations.

Having finalized its next generation strategy in collaboration with global management consulting firm A.T. Kearney, Thuraya is currently in the process of appointing a financial advisor to commence fundraising initiatives. Engagements with various potential strategic investors interested in Thuraya’s unique capabilities are already underway.

“We are preparing for strategic and sustained growth, exploring new market opportunities and exciting sectors,” said Halawi. “We have established the groundwork in recent years to build a significantly larger and more robust organization for the future. The true potential of Thuraya can now be realized. Our approach is distinctive, characterized by a compelling blend of continuity and expansion. Furthermore, our forthcoming plans aim to facilitate a seamless transition ahead of launches starting in 2020, while we continue to provide our existing customers with state-of-the-art connectivity solutions. We are thrilled at the prospects of showcasing the full extent of our capabilities.”