New CST Governor to Lead Saudi Digital, Space Push

Saudi Arabia's Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) is being steered by a new leader, with Haytham Abdulrahman Al-Ohali serving as Governor on the "excellent" grade following a Royal Decree issued on 12 February 2026 (24/8/1447 AH). The appointment comes as the Commission oversees a fast-expanding digital infrastructure and space sector.

CST is the national regulator responsible for the communications, space and technology sectors. Its mandate covers telecom infrastructure, radio spectrum, data centers, cloud services and non-terrestrial networks across the Kingdom. Its leadership structure is headed by a Governor and a Chairman, the latter being the Minister of Communications and Information Technology.

Billions in investment

As of 2026, CST has announced telecom infrastructure investments of up to SAR 1 billion, alongside private-sector investments of roughly USD 14.9 billion in digital infrastructure and advanced technologies. The Commission has also recently issued a wave of new licenses to broaden the market.

Carrier Service Provider licenses were granted to Water Transmission and Technologies Company (WTCO), Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Raqeem Smart Solutions. In addition, a General Class License with permissions for delivering telecommunication services over non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and for NTN operation services was awarded to SKYFive Arabia, with expected investments of around SAR 1 billion.

For residents and businesses, the expansion signals stronger connectivity options, more competition in telecom services, and continued growth in advanced technologies such as satellite-based networks. CST's licensing and regulatory processes are handled primarily through its official electronic portal, supported by standard Saudi e-government identity and payment systems.

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