Oman’s Etlaq spaceport is shaping the Sultanate’s rise as a regional space launch hub, backed by its equatorial location and expanding infrastructure/Representative Image
With its strategic location near the equator and open coastal geography, Oman is emerging as a prime platform for space vehicle launches. The Sultanate’s expanding infrastructure and favourable geographical conditions have attracted interest from international aerospace companies and are now paving the way for Oman to position itself as a regional and global space launch hub.Equatorial Advantage and Coastal Launch Sites
Etlaq Spaceport and Duqm-1: Laying the Groundwork
The Etlaq Spaceport marked Oman’s formal entry into the regional space race with its first space launch “Duqm-1”, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Located at 18 degrees latitude, the site enables diverse orbital access and will play a key role in future missions. Etlaq’s vision includes:- A second launch pad for experimental missions
- A spacecraft assembly facility
- An Omani Formation Program that supports experimental launches within 14 weeks of planning
- A long-term plan to be fully operational by 2027
The program also emphasises local talent development in space sciences and advanced engineering fields.Government Backing and Vision 2040 Alignment