The Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia has issued a significant public consultation regarding a comprehensive revision of the National Frequency Plan (NFP). This update, the first major overhaul since 2019, aims to align the Kingdom’s spectrum management with the latest international frameworks, specifically the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23), and to accommodate emerging wireless technologies.
Proposed Regulatory Changes
The CST is proposing structural and technical modifications to the NFP and the National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT), including:
- ITU Region 1 Alignment: Updating the NFAT to reflect current International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations.
- New User Categories: The introduction of "user access categories" to clarify spectrum access between "Government" and "Civil" users through specific national footnotes.
- NFAT Restructuring: The allocation table will be expanded to include five distinct columns covering ITU allocations, KSA band allocations, User Categories, Usage, and Technical Notes.
- Definition Updates: Revised definitions for primary and secondary services to clarify priority and interference protection.
Impact on Manufacturers and Device Certification
The proposed changes directly affect the permitted radio bands and technical parameters for devices intended for the Saudi market. Manufacturers should take note of several planned spectrum releases:
- Expanded IMT Spectrum: Identification of new bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) in the 1427–1517 MHz, 3800–4000 MHz, and 24.25–27.5 GHz ranges.
- License-Exempt Bands: New allocations for RLAN/WLAN (including the 5925–7125 MHz band) and various Short Range Device (SRD) frequencies.
- V2X Technology: A planned license-exempt spectrum release in the 5855–5905 MHz band for Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) applications.
Once finalized, the updated NFP will serve as the primary instrument for type approval and device certification. The CST has indicated that the approved revision will take effect 90 days after its final approval.
Deadlines for Feedback
CST invites manufacturers and interested stakeholders to provide comments and data-driven analysis on these proposed changes. The deadline for submission is 08 February 2026.
For assistance in assessing how these frequency changes may affect your product compliance roadmap for Saudi Arabia, please contact Eleos Compliance.
Eleos Compliance offer international RF, EMC, Safety and Green type approval services for radiocommunications products. Eleos Compliance are a sustainable, values-based business combining extensive experience in the wireless homologation sector with outstanding project management. For full support with your global market access requirements or regulatory intelligence needs please contact us at enquiries@eleoscompliance.com
