Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group to power Thai Airways with advanced in-flight connectivity

Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group
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Updated 08 April 2025
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Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group to power Thai Airways with advanced in-flight connectivity

Neo Space Group, a Public Investment Fund company and Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial space services provider, announced an expanded partnership with Thai Airways International to equip 80 aircraft with its state-of-the-art in-flight connectivity solution.

This announcement builds on the earlier announcement of NSG and Thai Airways collaboration to deliver a seamless in-flight connectivity service, offering market-leading connection speed, global gate-to-gate coverage (where permitted), and a personalized passenger experience through seamless login and exclusive benefits for Royal Orchid Plus members.

Thai Airways’ passengers will benefit from unlimited, high-speed internet access throughout their journey. NSG’s IFC solution leverages the SES Open Orbits network, delivering high-speed, low-latency coverage through both GEO and MEO satellites across the airline’s global routes.

The rollout will begin with Thai Airways’ Boeing 777 fleet, which will be retrofitted starting in Q3 2025. In parallel, the Airbus A321neo fleet currently in production will be line-fitted with the Airbus HBCplus platform, with deliveries starting from Q4 2025.

Building on this momentum, Thai Airways’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, also in production, will be line-fitted with SPI’s Aeroconnect terminal — a major milestone in NSG and Thai Airways’ joint connectivity strategy. Deliveries for the 787s are scheduled to commence in mid-2026.

Martijn Blanken, CEO of Neo Space Group, said: “Being selected by Thai Airways International highlights the strength and versatility of NSG’s multi-orbit connectivity solutions. We are excited to support Thai Airways in elevating the passenger experience with reliable, high-speed internet. This collaboration marks not only the airline’s resurgence but also its forward-thinking vision, and we are proud to play a role in shaping its future.”

He added: “NSG’s IFC solution will deliver internet speeds of up to 200 Mbps, enabling best-in-class complimentary Wi-Fi streaming for premium class passengers and Royal Orchid Plus members. This investment reflects THAI’s broader strategy, building on its legacy of service excellence and digital innovation — while continuing to deliver its signature hospitality.”

Wirush Theparak, head of customer experience and product at Thai Airways International, said: “Thai Airways International is committed to delivering an elevated guest experience. Our partnership with NSG allows us to vastly improve our in-flight connectivity and offer our passengers new levels of convenience, entertainment, and comfort. This initiative marks a significant step in our journey to redefine passenger expectations.”


Social Development Bank launches entrepreneurship forum ‘DeveGo 2025’ in Riyadh

Updated 22 December 2025
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Social Development Bank launches entrepreneurship forum ‘DeveGo 2025’ in Riyadh

The Social Development Bank has launched the second edition of the Entrepreneurship and Modern Business Practices Forum, known as DeveGo 2025, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh. The event runs from Dec. 21 to 23, under the patronage of Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Chairman of SDB’s Board of Directors Ahmed bin Sulaiman Alrajhi. This landmark forum positions itself as the region’s leading platform for entrepreneurship, innovation, and setting the latest trends in modern work practices, bringing together local and international entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders. This year’s edition is being held under the theme “Don’t start from zero… start from DeveGo.”

DeveGo 2025 serves as a comprehensive national platform showcasing the latest trends in entrepreneurship through a range of diverse panel discussions, workshops, and other initiatives. The forum brings together an elite group of local and international entrepreneurs, investors, experts, government leaders, as well as prominent global figures in innovation and entrepreneurship, including Rebeca Grynspan, secretary-general of the UN Conference on Trade and Development, futurist Ian Khan, and Jonathan Greechan, CEO of the Founder Institute, among other experts, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs. Their participation reinforces the forum’s international focus and enriches its agenda by enabling the sharing of the latest knowledge and experiences from diverse global markets.

DeveGo 2025 will witness the launch of a package of supportive programs and initiatives, including new financial products specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and startups, in addition to the signing of strategic agreements and partnerships aimed at stimulating entrepreneurial ventures, creating opportunities, and empowering the most promising projects — all while opening new pathways for growth. The forum will also host the “NEXT UP Challenge,” which will enable 20 startups to showcase their innovative projects and solutions before a panel of experts and specialists, while offering entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to connect with more than 50 local investors during the third day of the forum.

In addition, the forum will host the “DeveGo Handicrafts Competition,” which celebrates high-quality small enterprises that have evolved into impactful success stories with clear economic and social impact. 

The “Salam Award for Promising Projects” will be given in collaboration with Saudi Telecom Integrated Company, or Salam, to encourage entrepreneurs and startup owners to present their projects in a smart and simplified manner, on social media platforms. 

Furthermore, DeveGo 2025 offers participants and visitors a comprehensive, interactive, and knowledge-driven experience designed to enhance awareness of the entrepreneurship ecosystem, as well as financial and non-financial programs. This will include training and consultancy services to support growth across three main tracks: the “Inspiration Zone,” focusing on modern technologies and the creative economy; the “Growth Zone,” dedicated to modern business models, flexible work, franchising, and business development; and the “Entrepreneurship Zone,” which highlights future economic trends, venture capital, and sustainability.

The forum is expected to attract more than 25,000 visitors over three days, who will benefit from specialized workshops and advisory sessions delivered by more than 50 consultants and experts, providing an integrated experience in business development, guidance, and innovation.