Muscat, Oman – 20 February 2025 – Etlaq Spaceport, the first commercial spaceport in the Middle East and North Africa, has announced plans for five test launches in 2025 during the highly anticipated Etlaq Launch Conference 2025. These missions will serve as critical technology demonstrations, focusing on controlled ascent and descent, landing systems, stage separation, and fuel efficiency. As a globally accessible launch facility, Etlaq is collaborating with international launch partners from Kuwait, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand to execute these missions. This milestone underscores Oman’s growing role in the global space industry and highlights Etlaq’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in space exploration.

The Genesis Program: Pioneering Oman’s Spacefaring Future

At the core of Etlaq’s vision is the Genesis Program, a pioneering initiative launched in 2024 to establish Oman’s national space launch heritage. Inspired by Oman’s seafaring legacy, the program is a natural evolution in the country’s transition to a spacefaring nation.

Initially conceptualized as a proof of concept for the National Space Services Company’s (NASCOM) experimental Duqm-1 mission, the Genesis Program aims to host as many launches as safely feasible from 2025 to 2027. By partnering with multiple companies operating suborbital and experimental launch vehicles, Etlaq is laying the foundation for full-scale orbital launch operations. Designed for rapid deployment, the program ensures flexibility in scheduling while adhering to the highest safety and sustainability standards.

Commitment to Safety and Sustainable Space Access

Etlaq remains steadfast in its commitment to safety, ensuring that all five planned launches will be conducted under strict safety protocols and environmental considerations. The spaceport’s strategic location in Wilayat Al Duqm provides a secure controlled exclusion zone, minimizing risks and optimizing launch efficiency.

“Safety is our top priority. Every mission will be conducted with rigorous risk assessments to ensure operational integrity without compromising mission success,” said an Etlaq spokesperson at the conference.

Strategic Agreements and Industry Partnerships

As part of its ongoing expansion, Etlaq Spaceport announced several key agreements to strengthen Oman’s position as a regional leader in space services and technology development:

• MoU Between MTCIT and NASCOM: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM) to grant the company “Qualified Entity” status for building and operating spaceports. This agreement supports the goals of the National Space Sector Policy and its Executive Program 2023-2033, reinforcing Oman’s ambitions to become a leading space hub. The MoU aims to develop Omani private sector capabilities, attract foreign investments, and facilitate the transfer and localization of advanced technologies. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Dr. Ali Al Shidhani on behalf of the ministry and His Highness Sayyid Azzan Al Said on behalf of NASCOM.
• Etlaq’s Strategic Agreement with PLD Space: In a groundbreaking partnership, Etlaq has signed a strategic agreement with Spanish launch service provider PLD Space to facilitate the launch of MIURA 5 from Oman. This collaboration marks a significant step in European cooperation with Oman’s space sector.
• MoU with SatMENA for Ground Station Services: Etlaq also signed an MoU with SatMENA, a leading satellite communication service provider, to collaborate on ground station services and operational support for upcoming launches.
• New Brand Identities for Etlaq and the Oman Society for Astronomy and Space: Reflecting its expanding ambitions and global vision, Etlaq unveiled a refreshed brand identity, signaling a new era for Oman’s space industry. Additionally, the Oman Society for Astronomy and Space introduced its new brand identity, aligning with the nation’s growing space initiatives.

Looking Ahead

With these strategic initiatives, Etlaq Spaceport is positioning Oman as a key player in the global space ecosystem. The upcoming test launches, along with its international partnerships, mark a new chapter in the region’s space ambitions, paving the way for future orbital capabilities and commercial space services.