Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman is emerging as an ideal location for space vehicle launches, thanks to its geographic advantages. Its proximity to the equator allows spacecraft to benefit from Earth’s rotational speed, reducing fuel consumption during launches. Additionally, Oman’s coastal launch sites overlooking the Indian Ocean and remote, low-population areas offer a safe and efficient environment, drawing attention from global space companies.
His Highness Sayyid Azzan Qais Al Said, Founder and CEO of the National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM) and the “Etlaq” Spaceport, stated that the spaceport marked a historic milestone with the launch of “Duqm-1″—the first space launch from the Middle East. This initiative represents Oman’s strategic entry into the global space launch market. Positioned at 18 degrees latitude, Etlaq supports multi-orbit missions including equatorial, sun-synchronous, polar, medium Earth, and geostationary orbits.
HH Sayyid Azzan also announced that Etlaq’s master development plan is set to be fully operational by 2027. The spaceport’s “Formation Program,” launched in 2024, allows for experimental launches within just 14 weeks of planning. The program also focuses on training Omani talent in advanced space disciplines. Current expansion efforts include a second launch pad and a dedicated spacecraft assembly facility.
Dr. Saud Hamid Al Shukaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of the National Space Program at the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, emphasized that the space initiative is not only aimed at attracting international space investments but also at building national expertise in spacecraft engineering. The project plays a key role in supporting the goals of Oman Vision 2040, enhancing the country’s position in the global space industry.
