Space42 Partners With Gatehouse Satcom Collaborate To Direct-to-Device Satellite Messaging Service

Space42, a leading SpaceTech entity based in the UAE and listed as ADX: SPACE42, has recently made strides in the field of direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity through a partnership with Gatehouse Satcom, a Danish firm known for its expertise in satellite communications.

This collaboration has led to the successful utilisation of Space42's L band geostationary satellites for Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) applications, employing the latest 3GPP release 17 technology. This venture not only aligns with international standards but also paves the way for the forthcoming launch of Thuraya Direct, an innovative messaging and IoT service, anticipated to hit the commercial market in the fourth quarter of 2025.

The project underscores Space42's commitment to adopting and scaling transformative technologies through strategic partnerships and programs. It focuses on sectors where robust, extensive connectivity is essential, including energy, agriculture, and transportation, highlighting the inadequacy of relying solely on terrestrial networks in these areas.

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services at Space42, emphasised the strategic nature of this collaboration, stating, "This collaboration reflects our strategy in action. It is about extending the boundaries of mobile connectivity by enabling standard smartphones and IoT devices to connect via satellite in areas where terrestrial networks fall short. Through close engagement with telecom providers, we are addressing immediate market requirements and proving the viability of this technology while setting the stage for enhanced global commercialization of D2D through our future global constellation. We welcome partners across the ecosystem to join us in scaling this new frontier."

Thuraya, Space42's mobile satellite subsidiary, has been at the forefront of satellite mobility, offering reliable connectivity across challenging environments for more than twenty years. In conjunction with Gatehouse Satcom, which provided critical software expertise and support, Thuraya is set to redefine satellite-enabled services through Thuraya Direct.

Jesper Noer, VP Commercial at Gatehouse Satcom, shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "It's been a privilege to support Space42 in moving direct-to-device from promise to proof. Running 5G NB-IoT over GEO is no small feat, but our software is built for this – adaptable across constellations, compliant with global standards, and ready to support the next wave of NTN innovation. It's that shared forward-looking mindset that makes our work with Space42 so impactful. They have a rare ability to pair long-term vision with real-world execution. This project is a perfect example."

The collaboration has effectively demonstrated the feasibility of connecting 3GPP-compliant devices, including smartphones and IoT modules, directly to Space42's satellite network. This breakthrough confirms the interoperability of Thuraya Direct with global standards, making it accessible to telecom and OEM partners worldwide. With the service set to be commercially available by the end of the year, Space42 is actively engaging with industry stakeholders to introduce this groundbreaking technology to the market.