Oman's ETCO Space and UK's Open Cosmos sign Earth observation cooperation deal

Omani company ETCO Space and British satellite firm Open Cosmos signed a cooperation agreement in London on 25 October 2026. It covers satellite technologies and Earth observation, geospatial solutions, and programmes for knowledge transfer and capacity building.

ETCO Space chief executive Dr Abdulaziz Amer Al Sawaai signed for the Omani side, and Chief Technology Officer Jordi Barrera signed for Open Cosmos. Al Sawaai told Oman News Agency the company wants to strengthen its observation capabilities using high-quality space imagery. Planned uses include coastal monitoring and tracking pollution in Omani territorial waters, as well as services for the security, defence, energy and minerals sectors.

The agreement is framed as part of closer Oman–UK business ties in the space sector. It is expected to widen the use of satellite technologies, Earth observation services and geospatial data in Oman. No financial terms or satellite deliverables were given.

Why it matters: The deal shows Gulf operators pairing with established satellite builders to develop local Earth observation analytics and skills. Its coastal and pollution monitoring focus offers a model for other coastal states, including African ones, building national capability.