Ali Al Hashemi Becomes First Emirati Chairman Of Global Satellite Operators Association

The UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, Space42, has made a significant announcement regarding its Space Services unit's CEO, Ali Al Hashemi. He has been elected Chairman of the Board of the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA), marking him as the first Emirati to hold this prestigious position.

This role puts him at the forefront of leading the world's premier industry body that represents the satellite industry, reflecting a remarkable advancement in both his career and the UAE's standing in the global space community.

Al Hashemi's election as chairman is a testament to his influential career spanning over two decades across various sectors including telecommunications, defense, and aerospace. His leadership at Space42 has been instrumental, overseeing major projects like the launch of the Thuraya-4 satellite scheduled for January 2025, and initiating direct-to-device (D2D) services across Africa.

His roles extend beyond Space42, including chairing the Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Centre (AMMROC) and holding board positions at the UAE Space Agency (UAESA) and the National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC).

Before Space42 came into existence through the merger of Yahsat, Al Hashemi was at the helm as Group CEO. His leadership saw the company's triumphant listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange in 2021, marking it as the exchange's second-largest IPO. He was also pivotal in integrating Thuraya into the fold following its acquisition in 2018.

His contributions have not gone unnoticed on the global stage, earning him a spot among Forbes Middle East's Top 100 CEOs for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024, in addition to being recognized as one of its Sustainability Leaders in 2023.

Al Hashemi expressed his honor and excitement about his new role, stating, "This is deeply meaningful to me personally and professionally. Having served as Vice Chair of GSOA since 2023, this election reflects the trust and confidence my fellow industry leaders have placed in me. I am honored by this responsibility and excited to build on GSOA's incredible foundation. I look forward to helping drive innovation and collaboration in an industry that literally connects our world."

GSOA plays a critical role in the satellite industry, acting as a global non-profit association that unites the entire satellite ecosystem. It is recognised as the industry's voice by various international, regional, and national entities, including the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Economic Forum (WEF). With around 70 members, it represents a broad spectrum of the industry, from satellite operators to manufacturers and ground segment players.

Joining Al Hashemi in leading GSOA are Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES, and Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, CEO of NigComSat, as newly elected Vice Chairs. This leadership team, with its diverse expertise and global perspectives, aims to champion sustainable and innovative growth within the satellite industry. Their collective vision underscores GSOA's mission to foster worldwide collaboration and address the sector's challenges and opportunities.

The UAE has positioned itself as a formidable player in the global space sector, demonstrating significant advancements beyond satellite communications. The nation's commitment to the space industry is evident through initiatives like the Hope Probe, its first interplanetary mission to Mars, and expanding its astronaut programme with long-duration missions aboard the International Space Station.

Through Space42, the UAE is enhancing its sovereign satellite capacity, pushing the boundaries of direct-to-device connectivity, and establishing key international partnerships.