Wikipedia
Thuraya
Thuraya (, ), from the Arabic name for the constellation of the Pleiades, "Thurayya", is a regional mobile satellite phone provider. The company is based in the United Arab Emirates; it provides mobile coverage to more than 162 countries in Europe, the Middle East, North, Central and East Africa, Asia and Australia.
With about 350 roaming partners worldwide, Thuraya also offers GSM roaming services over land-based mobile GSM networks. As well, Thuraya sells a dual mode satellite phone with both GSM and satellite capabilities.
The company is headquartered in the United Arab Emirates. Its shareholders consist of investment companies, Middle Eastern and North African telcos; Etisalat is a major shareholder.