UAE partners with Starlink to expand digital education globally

The UAE’s Digital School has launched a global partnership with Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, to provide high-speed connectivity and digital learning resources to remote and underserved communities worldwide, WAM reported.

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the World Government Summit 2026.

The partnership will combine reliable satellite internet with a comprehensive digital education ecosystem led by The Digital School, including tailored learning programs, digital content, platforms, and teacher training. The first phase will target 100 sites globally, with expansion planned based on impact and readiness.

Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, said the collaboration reflects the UAE’s commitment to equitable access to education and global partnerships in digital learning.

Ryan Goodnight, Senior Director of Market Access at SpaceX, added, “With Starlink, students in remote, underserved, or connectivity-challenged areas can access online learning, collaboration tools, scholarships, and career resources, sparking curiosity and growth.”

Three schools in Lesotho have already received Starlink connectivity alongside integrated digital education systems, including computers, digitized curricula, and teacher training. The initiative also includes enrichment programs in space sciences, leveraging SpaceX’s ecosystem to inspire student learning and career aspirations.

Since its launch in 2020 under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, The Digital School has benefited over 800,000 learners and trained more than 30,000 educators. Its programs are available in seven languages, including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Sorani-Kurdish, Portuguese, and Bahasa Indonesia.