The internationally recognized Yemeni government has officially approved the launch of Starlink satellite internet service in Yemen, following the completion of all necessary procedures. The announcement came on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, during a government meeting held in Aden, the temporary capital of the country.

The decision was made after a report from the General Corporation for Telecommunications presented details of the licensing agreement with Starlink and the services to be offered through the corporation as the authorized agent.

The report highlighted that all procedures for launching Starlink services in Yemen have been finalized, ensuring the provision of high-speed, competitive satellite internet access for all segments of the population.

The government meeting also approved a widespread rollout of Starlink services through the corporation's sales points across most governorates. These points will offer a comprehensive range of services, including device sales, activation, subscription payment, and technical support.

The meeting emphasized the importance of registering all Starlink devices currently in use by individuals or entities, including those imported illegally. Users will be required to provide necessary information and comply with regulations to rectify their current status before legal action is taken against violators. A registration period will be announced through official channels.

In March 2024, the Yemeni Ministry of Communications and Information Technology had threatened to sue and fine satellite internet companies operating in Yemen without obtaining a license from the ministry. The ministry had given these companies a one-month deadline to obtain the necessary permits.

Starlink, a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX, owned by American billionaire Elon Musk, aims to provide internet access to underserved areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited.

The service relies on a constellation of thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit, connected to form a network capable of delivering high-speed internet access. Users connect to the satellites via a dish antenna connected to a router and modem, providing internet connectivity.

Starlink has been used to connect disaster-stricken areas and war zones, notably in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Currently, the service is available in only 40 countries, excluding Palestine.