The information revolution has reshaped our world, transforming the way we work, communicate and access knowledge. Over the past three decades, the Internet has broken barriers, creating a global network where information — whether vital or trivial — is at our fingertips.
Yet, the promise of universal connectivity remains elusive. While broadband and satellite Internet services are becoming more accessible to the privileged, approximately 2.6 billion people worldwide are still offline, representing one-third of the global population.
This inequality is not just an economic or technological gap — it is a fundamental issue of human rights. Recognising this, several global megatrends in the Internet service industry point towards an urgent need to rethink how we deliver connectivity. These trends also reveal an opportunity for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to lead by establishing a community-based satellite Internet service provider that is affordable, scalable and globally competitive.
In 2010, Iceland became one of the first nations to recognise Internet access as a fundamental human right. This declaration underscored the principle that in an increasingly digital world, connectivity is as essential as clean water or electricity. Other nations have followed suit, integrating Internet access into their development agendas.
This trend reflects a broader realisation: access to the Internet is not just a tool for communication but a lifeline for education, healthcare and economic opportunity. As the concept of digital rights gains traction, more countries are likely to adopt policies recognising Internet access as a universal right. The GCC, with its forward-looking visions such as Oman Vision 2040 and Saudi Vision 2030, is well-positioned to champion this movement.
Satellite Internet is another transformative trend. Once dominated by a handful of players, the industry is witnessing the rise of new competitors. Elon Musk’s Starlink, which aims to provide high-speed Internet globally, is a prime example of the potential — and challenges — of this technology. As of 2024, Starlink has connected over 2 million users globally, many in remote or underserved areas.
In response, the European Union launched IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnection and Security by Satellite), a project designed to provide secure and reliable satellite connectivity across Europe. Unlike Starlink, IRIS² aligns with the EU’s stringent data protection standards under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This development underscores the importance of regional alternatives that prioritise local needs, data sovereignty and cybersecurity.
For the GCC, which is heavily reliant on foreign technology providers, this is a moment of opportunity. A GCC-based satellite Internet provider could cater to regional demands while addressing critical issues such as data privacy, affordability and service reliability.
The third megatrend is the democratisation of Internet service provision. Across the globe, municipal councils and cooperatives are stepping in to provide Internet services, challenging the monopolies of traditional providers. By focusing on community-driven solutions, these initiatives have improved service quality, reduced costs and bridged the digital divide.
For example, municipalities in the US and Europe have launched publicly owned broadband networks, delivering faster and cheaper services than private providers. Such models demonstrate the power of local solutions in meeting global challenges.
The GCC countries have the resources, vision and technological infrastructure to pioneer a regional satellite Internet provider. By pooling expertise and investments, a GCC-based initiative could achieve the scale needed to compete globally. It could also address the specific needs of the region, such as connecting remote desert communities, supporting disaster response, and enabling digital transformation in sectors like education and healthcare.
Furthermore, this initiative could enhance regional integration, aligning with the broader goals of the GCC. A collaborative effort to democratise Internet access would not only benefit the region’s citizens, but also position the GCC as a leader in the global digital economy.
Connectivity is no longer a luxury - it is a necessity. As the Internet becomes increasingly central to our lives, ensuring universal access must be a priority. The global trends of recognising Internet access as a right, advancing satellite technology and democratising service provision present a compelling case for the GCC to act.
By establishing a community-based satellite Internet provider, the GCC can bridge the digital divide, empower its citizens and set an example for the rest of the world. The right to remain connected is not just a slogan - it is a call to action. Let us seize this moment to build a future where no one is left offline.
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