SCIT and Syriatel Join Forces to Pioneer Next-Generation Inflight Connectivity in Syria

A landmark collaboration bringing together telecommunications and aviation expertise to pave the way for next-generation inflight connectivity in Syria.


Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 31 August 2026 – SCIT and Syriatel Mobile Telecom S.A. today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during LEAP 2026 in Saudi Arabia to explore the introduction of advanced Inflight Connectivity (IFC) services based on Air-to-Ground (A2G) technology in the Syrian Arab Republic.
The MoU establishes a framework for the parties to assess the technical, regulatory, and commercial feasibility of introducing A2G-based IFC services in Syria, with the objective of working toward a potential service launch by 2027.
Under the contemplated cooperation framework, Syriatel is expected to lead the development and operation of the required ground infrastructure network in Syria. This scope includes pursuing the necessary spectrum allocation and licensing, as well as supporting the Radio Access Network, passive site infrastructure, backhaul transmission, civil works, core network, and internet access in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
SCIT’s Role in Delivering the End-to-End IFC Service
SCIT Group is expected to accelerate the development of the proposed service through its investment in aviation connectivity infrastructure, onboard equipment, and the integration capabilities required to deliver a reliable end-to-end inflight connectivity solution.
Through its subsidiary, SKYFive Arabia, SCIT intends to support the full end-to-end service offering and establish SKYFive Syria, a dedicated local entity that will contract with local airlines and provide IFC services in the Syrian market.


SKYFive Arabia, is expected to include IFC service definition, end-to-end solution design, three-dimensional aviation network planning, aircraft equipment supply coordination, airline program management through Entry-into-Service, aircraft solution integration and validation, installation design and kits, airworthiness certification, and IFC service operations.
The signing at LEAP 2026 marks an important milestone in the parties’ proposed cooperation. It provides a structured framework for advancing the technical, regulatory, corporate, and commercial discussions required for the potential introduction of IFC services in Syria.

Commenting on the signing, Mohamed K. AbdelRehim, Chief Executive Officer of SCIT Group, said:
“This MoU with Syriatel represents an important step in SCIT’s strategy to invest in and build next-generation inflight connectivity infrastructure across the region. By combining Syriatel’s telecommunications capabilities with SCIT’s regional investments and aviation connectivity expertise, we aim to enhance the passenger experience through high-speed terrestrial broadband services delivered securely and in line with local regulatory requirements.
The collaboration also supports the planned development of new international routes from the GCC to Europe via Syria, while enabling airlines to enhance their service offerings. For SCIT, it reflects our broader investment strategy across the technology value chain spanning Space, Connectivity, Intelligence, and Technology. We invest in infrastructure, networks, and advanced technologies that expand reach, connect people, assets, and systems, and enable new digital services and business models across our target markets.”


Commenting on the agreement, Yasser Kahf, Chief Executive Officer of Syriatel, said:
“Our collaboration with SCIT reflects Syriatel’s commitment to exploring advanced connectivity solutions that can contribute to the continued development of Syria’s telecommunications landscape. By combining our local network capabilities and market expertise with SCIT’s specialized aviation connectivity capabilities, we aim to establish a strong foundation for evaluating and developing inflight connectivity services in Syria. We look forward to progressing the technical, regulatory and commercial work required to move this initiative forward.”


About SCIT
SCIT is an investment group focused on building and investing across the technology value chain spanning Space, Connectivity, Intelligence and Technology.
SCIT invests in infrastructure, connectivity and advanced technologies that enable digital ecosystems and new economic opportunities. Through its portfolio companies and strategic partnerships, SCIT seeks to build scalable platforms that expand reach, connect people, assets and systems, transform data into actionable intelligence, and enable new business models across its target markets.


About SKYFive Arabia
SKYFive Arabia is a strategic company within SCIT’s investment portfolio, focused on transforming the way aircraft connect through advanced Integrated Inflight Connectivity (IFC) solutions.
Combining aviation, telecommunications and digital technologies, SKYFive Arabia delivers the specialized aviation connectivity capabilities required to extend high-performance connectivity into the sky. Within SCIT’s broader Connectivity investment pillar, SKYFive Arabia represents a key platform for building and scaling next-generation aviation connectivity across the Middle East and beyond.
Under the proposed collaboration with Syriatel, SCIT will leverage SKYFive Arabia’s specialized aviation expertise to support the development of the IFC solution, including aviation network planning, aircraft integration, airline program management, airworthiness certification and service operations.


About Syriatel
Syriatel Mobile Telecom S.A. is a telecommunications operator in the Syrian Arab Republic. Through the proposed collaboration with SCIT, Syriatel will bring its local telecommunications capabilities and infrastructure expertise to the exploration and development of A2G-based inflight connectivity services in Syria.


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For more details about SCIT
https://scitg.com/
info@scitg.com

For more details about SKYFive Arabia
https://skyfive-arabia.world/
info@skyfive-arabia.world

For more details about Syriatel

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