The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and the General Authority of Civil Aviation are encouraging outdoor enthusiasts who camp in remote areas to use Search and Rescue devices known as Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) that rely on radio communication technology.
These devices allow people to send distress signals that will be detected by satellite in areas where mobile network coverage is limited or not available.
CST explained that the distress service is provided in cooperation with several authorities and providers such as the General Authority of Civil Aviation and Saudi Air Navigation Services, which offers full coverage across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, even in remote areas.
It can identify the user’s location and information through satellites, which helps Search and Rescue teams reach people in distress situations.
Moreover, the distress signals are received by the Saudi Arabia Mission Control Center based at the Jeddah Area Control Center operated by the Saudi Air Navigation Services.
CST added that the PLB devices are one of the most important safety tools for outdoor travelling and camping in remote areas with no mobile network signal, as they allow the user to send distress alerts.
It is worth noting that outdoor enthusiasts can easily acquire the PLB devices and their required licenses from authorized dealers approved by CST.
Source: https://www.cst.gov.sa/en/media-center/news/N2025112901
