Successful launch of the Duqm-1 Rocket in the Sultanate of Oman

In a historic event that is the first of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman and the Middle East region, the experimental launch of the (Duqm-1) rocket was successfully carried out today, Thursday, by the “Etlaq” company, affiliated with the National Services Company (NASCOM), under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, as part of its strategic plans and initiatives to enhance the space sector. The rocket was launched at exactly 10:05 am, Oman time, at a site 18 north, 56 east, south of the Wilayat of Duqm.

 

His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Amer Al Shidhani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Communications and Information Technology, praised the successful launch of the experimental rocket “Duqm-1”, pointing out that this is an important step that places the Sultanate of Oman on the map of the global space sector, and attracts the attention of investors and international companies working in the field of space to the promising opportunities in Oman for space investments and activities. The Ministry is working to build strategic subscriptions at the local and international levels, and develop incentives that attract investments in the space sector. We hope that the launch of the experimental rocket (Duqm-1) will be the real beginning of the establishment of a space port to launch missiles, and other initiatives that work to localize space technologies, and enhance the Omani space sector.

 

His Highness Sayyid Azan bin Qais Al Said, Founder and CEO of “Etlaq” and the National Services Company (NASCOM), stated after the successful launch trial:

 

“We are extremely delighted with the success of this historic event. From the very beginning of establishing the company, we set our sights on making the Sultanate of Oman a pioneer in the first space rocket launch in the Middle East and establishing the region’s first spaceport. There is no doubt that the success of this trial has captured the attention of the world, particularly those working in and interested in the space sector.

 

We extend our gratitude to the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology for their outstanding partnership in ensuring the success of this trial as part of a national strategic vision and initiatives to enhance the space sector in the Sultanate of Oman. The company’s objectives align with this vision adopted by the Ministry to position Oman as a regional gateway to space.

 

I would also like to thank all governmental and private entities for their tremendous cooperation and fundamental role in the success of this trial.”

 

 

Dr. Saud bin Humaid Al Shuaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of the National Space Program. emphasized the significance of this accomplishment, stating:

“The success of this experiment is a vital step in Oman’s journey to enhance its capabilities in the space sector. It reflects the Sultanate’s ongoing efforts to develop the industry and leverage its unique geographical location to attract investments and build strong partnerships with the private sector. We look forward to conducting more launches in the near future, contributing to the realization of our strategic goals and solidifying Oman’s position on the global space stage.”

 

This launch signifies a transformative moment for Oman as it embarks on a journey to become a leading player in the rapidly growing space indus