UAE Invests AED40 Billion to Lead Space Exploration

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Supreme Space Council, recently chaired the first meeting of the Council, reviewing the UAE’s significant economic achievements in the space sector. These accomplishments have firmly established the nation’s leadership in the regional space industry.

During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the UAE’s impressive strides in space exploration. He stated, “The national space sector continues to grow and advance, becoming a cornerstone of innovation and scientific progress in the UAE.” He noted that investments in space have surged to AED40 billion in recent years, with research and development spending increasing by 14.8% compared to the previous year. The number of space-related companies has grown by 29%, with private sector investments accounting for 44.3% of the total.

The UAE is leading five national space projects focused on the moon, Mars, and the asteroid belt, showcasing a highly skilled workforce capable of undertaking complex scientific missions. “Our commitment to ambitious space exploration programs remains steadfast,” H.H. Sheikh Hamdan added. The next phase will focus on greater public-private sector collaboration, further driving innovation and strengthening the space sector.

The meeting was attended by key figures, including Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Secretary-General of the Supreme Space Council; Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; and Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi emphasized the importance of an integrated national framework to achieve space sector objectives. “The UAE’s space sector growth reflects our commitment to nurturing Emirati talent and fostering collaboration among all stakeholders,” he said.

The private sector’s role in space development was highlighted, with investments nearly matching those from the public sector. The Space Economic Zones Programme, with over 200 private company members, continues to play a crucial role in supporting this growth.

Additionally, the UAE has made pioneering contributions to international space exploration, including being the first country to launch a project to explore the asteroid belt and the first in the region to participate in the Artemis mission.

The meeting also provided updates on upcoming space programs. The Thuraya 4 satellite, owned by Space42, is scheduled for launch in December 2024, while the MBZ-SAT satellite, being developed by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, is set to launch in January 2025.

Presentations from various sectors, including the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, outlined strategic plans and advancements in space programs, astronaut training, lunar missions, and private sector initiatives.

With these developments, the UAE is on track to continue its rise as a global leader in space exploration, driving innovation, growth, and collaboration in the sector.