RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s space exploration ambitions are being driven by a generation of tech-savvy young nationals.
A group of dynamic professionals from the PIF-owned Neo Space Group have spoken about their aspirations to advance national objectives through space technology, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Abdullah Duwaihi Al-Anazi, a Space Communications Department engineer at the Satellite Operations Center, said that space capabilities directly correlated with technological sovereignty while creating substantial economic and scientific opportunities.
His colleague, Rayan Al-Zahrani from Satellite Communications Management, added that space investment gave the Kingdom autonomy in data and communications.
Strategy and Business Development Specialist Abdullah Al-Qarni added that space held opportunities for medical research, communications technology and economic opportunity.
He emphasized space technology’s role in supporting economic diversification initiatives and generating high-value employment opportunities.
Saudi professional contributions span satellite operations centers to information technology management, the SPA reported.
Satellite Operations Center Engineer Mohammed Al-Abbad said that local talent was a driving force in space technology.
Information Technology Department Data Analyst and Cybersecurity Specialist Manar Akef added that each Saudi professional contribution advanced the Kingdom toward self-sufficiency.
Space Systems Engineer Osama Adel Baabdullah positioned expertise as the cornerstone of technological sovereignty and the primary catalyst of space innovation.
NSG runs training programs ranging from administrative workshops to technical instruction, the SPA reported.
Engineer Osama Baabdullah praised the professional mentorship program facilitating direct engagement with executive leadership.
Satellite Operations Center Engineer Muayad Al-Makdoom cited benefits from the Lumofy platform and space communications courses in supporting innovation objectives.
Despite the sector’s nascency, Saudi youth encounter technical and infrastructural challenges that they reframe as development opportunities, the SPA reported.
Human Resources Information System Officer Ghadah Al-Dhalaan encapsulates this perspective, saying that challenges represent innovation and creativity opportunities.
The NSG was founded in 2024 by the PIF as a means of rapidly developing Saudi Arabia’s space and satellite communications capabilities.
