Satellite internet set to explode: 100M users in just 2 years

Satellite internet users will exceed 100 million within two years, according to ST Engineering, a key supplier for SpaceX's Starlink network. The Singapore-based company cites accelerating global adoption as Starlink itself has grown to over 2.6 million subscribers as of Q1 2024. As reported by PCMag, this represents a data point for an industry that barely existed five years ago.

What's driving satellite internet growth?

"We are seeing accelerating adoption globally, and we expect the number of satellite internet users to cross 100 million in the next two years," said Low Gin Kai, President of Satellite Communications at ST Engineering. The prediction comes as satellite internet fills connectivity gaps in remote areas where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited or expensive to deploy.

ST Engineering's position as a ground equipment supplier gives the company insight into Starlink's expansion plans and manufacturing needs. The company produces user terminals and other hardware components essential for satellite internet operations.

For UAE users, this growth trajectory matters. Starlink UAE launched with residential plans starting from Dhs 230 monthly, targeting areas with poor traditional internet coverage and users requiring reliable backup connectivity.

How does this compare to traditional internet?

The 100 million user target would represent roughly 3% of global internet users, but the impact extends beyond raw numbers. Satellite internet serves specific use cases where traditional broadband fails — remote locations, maritime applications, and emergency backup scenarios.

Emirates' adoption of Starlink Wi-Fi demonstrates how satellite connectivity is moving beyond rural applications into mainstream transport and mobility sectors. Airlines, shipping companies, and remote work operations increasingly use satellite internet for connectivity.

The technology also enables connectivity in regions where laying fibre cables proves economically unviable. This creates new markets rather than simply competing with existing broadband providers.

What this means for the UAE market

According to industry projections, smartphone satellite connectivity will reach 46% adoption by 2030. This suggests the satellite internet boom extends beyond dedicated terminals to integrated smartphone features.

For the UAE market, ST Engineering said the growth reflects wider regional adoption as the industry scales. Multiple satellite providers are now operating in the segment, ST Engineering noted.

The prediction also signals confidence in regulatory environments worldwide. Satellite internet requires government approval in each country, and ST Engineering's forecast suggests most major markets will remain open to the technology.

Current satellite internet adoption

Starlink leads the satellite internet market with over 2.6 million subscribers as of Q1 2024, up from roughly 1 million users in early 2023. The service operates in over 70 countries, including the UAE where plans start at Dhs 230 monthly for residential users.

Other satellite internet providers like Amazon's Project Kuiper and OneWeb are preparing to launch consumer services, which should accelerate the path to 100 million total users across all platforms. ST Engineering's prediction encompasses all satellite internet providers, not just Starlink.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many users does Starlink currently have?

Starlink had over 2.6 million subscribers as of Q1 2024, representing significant growth from roughly 1 million users in early 2023.

When is satellite internet expected to reach 100 million users?

ST Engineering predicts satellite internet users will cross 100 million within the next two years, driven by accelerating global adoption.

What is ST Engineering's role with Starlink?

ST Engineering is a supplier of ground equipment for Starlink, including user terminals and other hardware components essential for satellite internet operations.

Is satellite internet available in the UAE?

Yes, Starlink launched in the UAE with residential plans starting from Dhs 230 monthly, targeting areas with poor traditional internet coverage.

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