News
UAE’s Yahsat Introduces Smartphone-To-Satellite Connectivity
The service also allows seamless connectivity for IoT (Internet of Things) devices, and works irrespective of geographical location.

Yahsat, a satellite services firm based in Abu Dhabi, has initiated a groundbreaking service known as “direct-2-device”, enabling seamless connectivity for smartphones and IoT (Internet of Things) devices, irrespective of geographical location.
In its initial phase, Yahsat aims to provide voice and messaging services within the current year, with plans to expand its offerings to include texting and IoT functionalities on smartphones by 2025, utilizing the forthcoming Yahsat Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, slated for launch later in the year.
A subsequent phase, dubbed Project BlueStar, is set to facilitate comprehensive direct-to-device connectivity through an adaptable satellite network.
This two-phase deployment encompasses voice, messaging, and data. Yahsat is set to provide a sneak peek of its D2D portfolio at the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona later this month.
The integration of satellite-linked features into mobile devices is gaining traction. Owners of Apple’s iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15, or iPhone 15 Pro can already connect to satellites for emergency texting services, and similar connectivity may soon become a standard smartphone feature.
“We are excited to launch our D2D strategy to revolutionize our industry by providing billions of people, organizations and businesses across various sectors with seamless, reliable and efficient access to connectivity,” said Ali Al Hashemi, Group CEO.
“This strategy is a critical and significant part of Yahsat’s wider growth strategy. We developed our D2D strategy – Project SKY, by carefully examining our strengths and capabilities and leveraging our expertise to capitalize on evolving market conditions,” he added.
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Yahsat’s five satellites currently cover over 80% of the global population and deliver C, Ku, Ka, and L-band satellite communication solutions to consumers, governments, and businesses across various land, maritime, and aerospace platforms.
In 2020, Yahsat commenced the construction of Thuraya 4, an advanced telecommunications system for Thuraya, scheduled for launch in 2024 and operational by 2025. Additionally, construction began last year on two ‘software-defined’ telecommunication satellites, Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5, anticipated to be launched in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
News
Yango Ride Expands Corporate Transport Service In Abu Dhabi
Known as Yango Rides for Business, the solution aims to simplify business travel management for companies operating across Emirates.

Yango Ride, a global ride-hailing service under the Yango Group, has extended its corporate transport solution, Yango Rides for Business, to Abu Dhabi. Initially launched in Dubai in 2024, the company is now expanding in a bid to simplify business travel for companies operating between both Emirates.
Yango Rides for Business offers a streamlined way to handle employee transportation through a single platform. Instead of dealing with the hassle of prepayments or reimbursement claims, businesses will be able to consolidate all ride expenses under a single corporate account that’s billed monthly. The setup makes it easier to track spending while ensuring expenses remain fully tax-deductible.
A key advantage of the service is its flexibility, allowing managers to set ride permissions and budget limits for employees and clients. Businesses can tailor transport solutions based on team needs — whether for daily commutes or specific travel requirements. Additionally, a dedicated account management system provides real-time analytics, enabling firms to monitor usage patterns and optimize costs.
Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Middle East, highlighted the importance of this expansion, explaining: “Abu Dhabi’s 4.5% economic growth in Q3 2024 reflects a thriving business environment where seamless mobility is essential for productivity. Yango Rides for Business simplifies corporate transportation, reducing administrative tasks and optimizing costs. By providing a centralized solution, we help companies ensure smooth employee travel experiences, supporting efficiency and growth in this dynamic market”.
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Meanwhile, Ivan Kaplunovich, Head of Yango Rides for Business, emphasized the benefits of the service, adding: “Today’s businesses need to balance cost efficiency with flexibility in a fast-changing environment. Yango Rides for Business gives companies a seamless way to manage corporate transportation — from controlling expenses and booking rides to simplifying billing and generating custom reports. With this level of flexibility, businesses can stay focused on growth, innovation, and delivering value”.
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