SpaceX's Starlink edges closer to securing a significant inflight internet deal with Saudi Arabia's primary airline, according to recent reports.
In the ever-evolving landscape of aviation, SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service is making significant strides in the Middle East. As of August 2025, Starlink is in advanced talks and close to finalizing a deal with Saudia Airlines to equip its fleet of over 140 aircraft with Starlink satellite internet for in-flight connectivity [2][3][4].
Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, would mark a significant foothold in one of the Middle East's largest economies if the agreement is finalized. This move would position Starlink as a major player in Middle Eastern skies [5].
Starlink is not resting on its laurels, actively pursuing partnerships with Gulf Air and Flydubai as well. Discussions with these carriers are ongoing, with Gulf Air targeting expansion in the Gulf aviation market [3][4]. However, the Flydubai deal faces regulatory hurdles since Starlink is not yet authorized for use in the United Arab Emirates, where Flydubai operates [3].
Emirates, another major Middle Eastern carrier, is also in discussions with SpaceX. The aim is to secure agreements that would broaden Starlink's presence in the Middle East aviation market, challenging incumbents like Viasat, SES, and Inmarsat [1][4][5].
The adoption of Starlink by these carriers would leverage its constellation of about 8,000 satellites, offering high-speed, low-latency connectivity with a subscription pricing model. This includes multi-hundred-thousand dollar upfront hardware costs plus monthly per-seat fees [2][3].
In summary, while Saudia is at the near-contract stage, Gulf Air, Flydubai, and Emirates remain prospective partnerships pending regulatory and commercial agreements [1][2][3][4][5]. As Starlink continues to expand its in-flight Wi-Fi partnerships in the Middle East, it promises to shake up the aviation market and redefine connectivity in the skies.
| Airline | Status with Starlink (Aug 2025) | Notes | |-----------|------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------| | Saudia | Close to finalizing a deal; advanced talks | Fleet of 140+ aircraft; would be major Middle East entry | | Gulf Air | Discussions ongoing | Targeting Gulf aviation market expansion | | Flydubai | Discussions ongoing but pending regulatory approval in UAE | Starlink not yet authorized for UAE airspace | | Emirates | In discussions | Aiming to dominate regional long-haul flights |
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5]
Science and technology are playing a pivotal role in the evolution of business, as Starlink's satellite internet service seeks to revolutionize the aviation sector in the Middle East. The foray of companies like Saudia, Gulf Air, Flydubai, and Emirates into Starlink's high-speed, low-latency connectivity could potentially disrupt traditional players in the region, such as Viasat, SES, and Inmarsat.
