Latest news with #SayyidAzzan
The National
16-07-2025
- Business
- The National
Second rocket launch from Oman's spaceport called off but momentum builds
Oman's ambitious mission to develop a commercial rocket launch site to put the country at the centre of the region's growing space sector is taking shape, even after a recent test mission setback. Oman's plans to carry out a second rocket launch from its under-construction spaceport were called off on Sunday after engineers discovered a technical problem shortly before lift-off. The Duqm-2 mission was expected to launch a 12-metre experimental suborbital rocket from Etlaq Spaceport, the Middle East's first commercial launch site, in the remote coastal desert of Duqm. But a fault was found in the rocket's actuator, a device that helps control systems on the launch vehicle. Sayyid Azzan bin Qais Al Said, chief executive of the spaceport, said the mission had still met many of its goals. 'We achieved many objectives of the Duqm-2 mission, including planning the mission, navigating regulatory processes, designing ground infrastructure and building an integration hangar,' he said. The Kea-1 rocket, developed by Stellar Kinetics, a private company from New Zealand, was meant to travel into suborbital space on a short test flight. 'Building momentum' A company representative said the rocket had performed well in all steps before the final countdown, including preparing the launchpad, filling the rocket's tanks and integrating the two payloads from international partners. 'Over the next four months we anticipate a series of subsequent launches to continue on the research and development pathway,' they said. 'As the programme builds momentum, we expect to see a steady stream of both experimental and commercial Stellar Kinetics vehicles launching from the Etlaq Spaceport." Start-ups involved The Duqm-2 mission involved start-ups from the UK and Taiwan, who developed small satellite payloads to ride on the rocket. A team from Jupiter, a UK-based space start-up, built a small satellite called Jovian-O and an Earth observation device. Ieuan Carney, a PhD student at the University of Surrey, said being a part of the mission was exciting. 'Although the payload didn't get to deploy, it's something we were prepared for because we know space projects often have setback in the early stages,' he said. 'We're still so proud of what we've done, developing a payload and fitting it on to a rocket.' Sight Space from Taiwan developed a tiny satellite designed to measure stress and environmental conditions during the launch process. Etlaq momentum This was the second of five launch attempts planned at Etlaq Spaceport this year. The first in April was meant to see a 1-metre rocket lift-off but it was delayed and has not yet taken off. An attempt Stellar Kinetics is expected in October involving the Kea-2 rocket. A Kuwaiti start-up will try to launch its experimental rocket in November, and a fifth attempt will be made, again by Stellar Kinetics, in December. The spaceport's first test flight was in December 2024, when a 6.5-metre rocket blasted off on a high-altitude test flight. Etlaq is the Middle East's first commercial spaceport and is being positioned as a fast-track launch site for start-ups. It offers quick access to rocket testing, while plans for construction of a full-scale orbital spaceport are progressing ahead of a scheduled 2027 opening. This year's five launch attempts are being made possible by the new Genesis programme at Etlaq, which involved creating temporary but fully operational facilities at the spaceport. This allows companies to plan and execute high-altitude missions in as little as 13 weeks. The streamlined process is designed to cater to the growing demand from private companies, in contrast to the practice in countries such the US, where launch approval from the Federal Aviation Administration can take months. The Genesis operations occupy only about 10 per cent of the spaceport's capacity. The rest of the site is being reserved for the much larger, permanent orbital-class complex, which will feature three launch complexes and four pads, designed to support small, medium and heavy-lift vehicles. Construction on the full orbital spaceport is expected to begin next year, with commercial operations scheduled to start at the end of 2027.
Zawya
03-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Etlaq Spaceport in Duqm to start operating by 2027
Muscat – Oman's first spaceport Etlaq is expected to be operational by 2027, according to H H Sayyid Azzan bin Qais al Said, Founder and CEO of National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM). The announcement comes as Oman consolidates its position in the regional space sector following the successful launch of Duqm-1, the first spacecraft developed under a Middle East-led initiative. The milestone marked a significant step forward in the sultanate's ambitions to establish a national space infrastructure for commercial and scientific purposes. Etlaq Spaceport, being developed in Duqm, is designed to offer end-to-end logistical and technical services for satellite and sub-orbital vehicle launches. Oman's strategic location has been highlighted as a key advantage for attracting global operators. 'The facility will eventually include four launch pads and support a range of missions, from micro to heavy payloads, including reusable systems,' informed H H Sayyid Azzan. 'NASCOM is also developing local human capital through dedicated training programmes, aligned with the company's goal of generating in-country value and fostering national capabilities in space technologies.' Under a programme named Al Takween (Genesis) launched in 2024, the company supports short-turnaround launch operations, enabling testing and qualification of spacecraft within 14 weeks. Recent developments include a second launch pad for experimental flights and a new assembly facility. NASCOM's next mission – Duqm-2 – is being conducted in partnership with New Zealand-based Stellar Kinetics. The mission's sub-orbital KEA-1 vehicle, measuring 12m, will be used to test stage separation and guidance systems. It will carry two international scientific payloads and explore microgravity conditions, contributing to research and technology development. Dr Saud bin Humaid al Shuaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of National Space Programme at Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, said the spaceport project supports Oman's strategy for space exploration. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
02-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman: an ideal platform for space launches
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman boasts an ideal location for space vehicle launches, with its proximity to the equator reducing fuel consumption for spacecraft as they launch in alignment with Earth's rotation. Oman's coastal launch sites overlooking the Indian Ocean and distance from populated areas have attracted international space companies seeking optimal launch locations. HH Sayyid Azzan Qais al Said, Founder and CEO of the National Aerospace Services Company "NASCOM" and "Etlaq" Spaceport, stated that " Etlaq " pioneered the first Middle Eastern space launch with "Duqm-1," marking Oman's inaugural step toward becoming a global space access hub. The 18-degree latitude spaceport enables multi-orbit launches, including equatorial, sun-synchronous, polar, medium Earth, and geostationary orbits. HH Sayyid Azzan revealed that Etlaq's master plan will be operational by 2027, with its Formation Program enabling experimental launches within 14 weeks of planning since 2024. The program focuses on Omani workforce development in advanced space specialties, with current expansion including a second launch pad for experimental missions and a spacecraft assembly facility. Dr Saud Hamid al Shukaili, Director General of Policies & Governance and Head of the National Space Program at the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology emphasized that Oman's space launch project aims to attract global space investments while building national capabilities in spacecraft engineering, supporting Oman Vision 2040. Furthermore, a representative at Stellar Kinetics stated that the upcoming mission will be the inaugural launch of the KEA-1 vehicle, offering a unique opportunity to test orbital class systems such as stage separation mechanisms and active guidance under unprecedented mission also aims to achieve microgravity conditions to support university-led research via two onboard scientific payloads developed by international partners.
Muscat Daily
22-04-2025
- Sport
- Muscat Daily
Sayyid Azzan appointed chairman of Oman Olympic Committee
Sayyid Azzan appointed chairman, Sayyida Sana representative of women's sports Muscat – H H Sayyid Azzan bin Qais al Said has been appointed Chairman of Board of Directors of Oman Olympic Committee (OOC) for the 2024–2028 term following a General Assembly meeting held in Muscat on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by members of the OOC Board, representatives of 17 sports federations, athletes, a representative of Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, and candidates for the new board. The General Assembly also approved the appointment of H E Dr Abdullah bin Khamis Ambusaidi as Vice Chairman. Additional members were confirmed in accordance with OOC statutes. Six members were elected from among nine candidates to represent Olympic sports federations – Musa bin Khamis al Balushi, President of Oman Handball Association; Dr Marwan bin Juma al Juma, President of Oman Hockey Association; Saeed bin Mohammed al Hajri, President of Oman Athletics Association; Qais bin Saud al Zakwani, Representative of Oman Water Sports Association; Khalfan bin Saleh al Naabi, President of Oman Basketball Association; and Ibrahim bin Abdullah al Muqbali, President of Oman Volleyball Association. In addition, Sheikh Badr bin Ali al Rawas and Jihad bin Abdullah al Sheikh were elected to the two seats allocated for sports figures for the new term. Taha bin Sulaiman al Kashri and Abdullah bin Mohammed Bamkhalef were appointed representatives of Olympic sports federations, while Yousef bin Awadh Bait Salim was confirmed as representative of non-Olympic sports federations. Khalifa bin Hamad al Jabri was named representative of athletes, and Sayyida Sana bint Hamad al Busaidi as representative of women's sports.
Times of Oman
09-03-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
OGA President Sayyid Azzan opens Oman's first-ever indoor golf facility
MUSCAT: A new chapter in Oman's golfing history was written with the grand opening of The Golf Lounge, the country's first-ever indoor golf facility, held recently. Located at the Active Oman Indoor Arena at the Oman Automobile Association (OAA), the facility promises to transform the golfing experience in the Sultanate, offering year-round access to cutting-edge technology and a welcoming climate-controlled environment for players of all skill levels. The launch of The Golf Lounge marks a significant step toward growing the sport of golf in Oman. The venue is equipped with advanced Trackman technology, providing state-of-the-art simulation and data analysis tools for golfers. The facility, the brainchild of visionary entrepreneurs Mazin Al Athmawi and Sabri Al Manthari, reflects their shared passion for golf and a desire to raise the sport's profile in Oman. The venue features eight regular bays and two premium bays, designed to accommodate everyone from casual players to seasoned professionals. HH Sayyid Azzan bin Kais Al Said, Oman Golf Association (OGA) President, inaugurated the facility in the presence of OGA Vice Chairman Faiz Mohammad Riaz, OGA board members Ahmed Al Jhdhamy, Nikhil Sampat, and other dignitaries. Speaking after the inauguration, Sayyid Azzan, an avid golfer himself, expressed his pride in the new addition to Oman's sports infrastructure. He emphasised the importance of The Golf Lounge in providing a year-round platform for both novice and advanced golfers. 'This is a historic moment for the golf community in Oman,' Sayyid Azzan remarked. 'The opening of this state-of-the-art facility will play a crucial role in nurturing young talent and providing a space for Omani golfers to refine their skills. Our national teams have shown remarkable promise, and I am confident that The Golf Lounge will further their development.' National teams felicitated The opening ceremony also recognised the success of Oman's national golf teams, who have shown impressive results on the regional stage. Notably, the national U18 team members who triumphed at the recently-concluded GCC Golf Championship in Jeddah and other medal winners at regional age-group events were felicitated during the event. Faiz Mohammad Riaz, Vice Chairman of OGA, spoke about the significance of these laurels on the occasion. 'Our young golfers demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in Jeddah, making history by winning the first-ever GCC U18 team gold,' he said. 'The recent successes of our teams reflect the strength and future of golf in Oman. The Golf Lounge will serve as a key training hub for these young athletes.' Among the honoured golfers was Adam Al Barwani, who, alongside his teammates, brought home the gold medal for the Under-18 category. He also claimed a silver medal in the individual category at the championship. 'It's an honour to be recognised alongside my teammates,' said Al Barwani. 'We've put in a lot of hard work, and it's exciting to see Omani golf being supported in such a major way. The Golf Lounge will be an incredible place for all of us to continue our development.' Mahir Sampat, another member of the U18 gold-winning team, said, 'It feels great to be part of this new chapter for golf in Oman. Having a facility like this [The Golf Lounge] will provide all of us with the tools we need to improve. I'm excited for the future and look forward to making the most of what The Golf Lounge has to offer.' The Golf Lounge, the nation's premier indoor golf facility, isn't just about training; it also aims to bring together the golfing community in Oman. The venue offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where both beginners and experienced golfers can connect, share tips, and enjoy the game in a welcoming environment. One participant who recently visited the lounge shared the excitement. 'It's an amazing space - fun, chill, and perfect for spending time with friends or improving your game. We've had a great time here, and I'm looking forward to coming back.' Another participant, who recently visited The Golf Lounge with family, shared her experience: 'As first-timers, we were a bit nervous about getting the hang of golf, but the staff was friendly and incredibly helpful. They were always around to give us tips, which made the whole experience more enjoyable. We even had a competition between us, which turned out to be hilarious and filled with lots of laughs. I can't wait to go back.' With its world-class facilities, The Golf Lounge is poised to play a vital role in the growth of golf in Oman. The venue is not just about leisure; it's also about development, with plans to host tournaments, coaching sessions, and social events. Sayyid Azzan reaffirmed the support of the OGA and spoke about the facility's long-term potential. 'This is just the beginning for The Golf Lounge. With the support of the Oman Golf Association and our dedicated partners, we are confident that this facility will help us achieve our vision for golf in Oman.' The opening of the doors of The Golf Lounge is a game-changer for the sport in Oman. Whether you're looking to improve your swing, compete at the highest levels, or simply enjoy a fun day with friends, the indoor facility offers something for everyone. The national age-group golfers felicitated at The Golf Lounge were Adam Al Barwani, Mahir Sampat, Pransh Jagwani, Faris Al Busaidi, Yousef Al Rumhi, Taimour Al Busaidi, Miraeri Sampat, and Yasmin Al Kathiri.
