Space42 and Skylo Partner to Bring Satellite Mobile Coverage to 37 Countries
Abu Dhabi, Monday, 11 May 2026.
Space42 and Skylo achieved real-time satellite voice calls without requiring SIM card changes. This partnership will soon bring seamless mobile coverage to dead zones across 37 countries.
A Technological Leap in Telecommunications
On May 11, 2026, United Arab Emirates-based Space42 (ADX:SPACE42) and California-headquartered Skylo Technologies formalized a strategic agreement to utilize the Thuraya-4 geostationary satellite for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity [1][2]. The technological milestone underpinning this partnership is the successful completion of a bi-directional, real-time voice call routed directly through the Thuraya-4 satellite [1]. Notably, this was achieved using Skylo’s 3GPP-compliant Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) platform without requiring any modifications to existing smartphone SIM cards or alterations to terrestrial operator infrastructure [1].
Strategic Rollout and Market Impact
The commercial deployment of this satellite-to-smartphone service will target an expansive footprint. The companies plan to expand Skylo’s NTN presence across more than 37 countries [1]. However, this rollout will not happen simultaneously across all markets; deployment will occur on a rolling basis, contingent upon securing necessary regulatory approvals and formal agreements with regional telecom operators [1] [alert! ‘Exact timeline for full deployment across all 37 countries remains unspecified pending ongoing regulatory and operator negotiations’]. Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, emphasized that the interoperable connectivity layer will allow satellite and terrestrial networks to function as a unified system, advancing the company’s strategy to become a global leader in NTN technologies [1].
Corporate Evolution and Future Trajectory
The current iteration of Space42 is the result of strategic corporate consolidation. While its foundational corporate entity was established in 2022, the modern Space42 was officially formed in 2024 through the merger of Bayanat and Yahsat [1][2]. Operating primarily through two distinct segments—Space Services and Smart Solutions—the enterprise integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics, and artificial intelligence to serve a diverse international client base [1][2].