Hamdan Bin Mohammed Reviews UAE Space Sector Achievements At Supreme Space Council's First Meeting
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, led the Supreme Space Council's inaugural meeting. He reviewed the UAE's space sector achievements, which have bolstered its regional leadership. "The national space sector continues to grow and advance, and we take immense pride in the remarkable achievements we have accomplished over the years," he stated.
The UAE has invested AED40 billion in its space sector over recent years. Research and development spending on space projects increased by 14.8% compared to last year. The number of companies in the sector grew by 29% annually, with private investments making up 44.3% of funding.
The UAE is leading five national projects focused on exploring the moon, Mars, and the asteroid belt. A skilled workforce has been developed to tackle challenging scientific missions. "Our commitment to ambitious space exploration programmes remains steadfast," H.H. Sheikh Hamdan noted.
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi emphasised collaboration among stakeholders to drive growth in the space sector. "The dynamic growth of the space sector reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to nurturing Emirati talent and preparing them to lead the future of space exploration," he said.
The meeting highlighted private sector contributions nearly matching public spending in developing the space industry. Initiatives like the Space Economic Zones Programme now include over 200 private companies, showcasing successful economic stimulation efforts.
The UAE's international contributions to space exploration were also discussed. The nation became the first globally to launch a project exploring the asteroid belt and was first in the region for moon exploration missions.
Upcoming Programmes and Strategic Plans
Upcoming programmes include launching Thuraya 4 satellite by Space42 in December 2024 and MBZ-SAT by Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in January 2025. Presentations from various sectors supporting the space industry were featured during the meeting.
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology presented its strategic plan for advancing the space sector. It addressed developments in both space and defence economies, economic opportunities, challenges, and strategies aligning with national priorities.
Future Strategies for Growth
The meeting also reviewed future strategies for enhancing acquisition and developing UAE’s space capabilities. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre shared updates on national initiatives like the UAE Astronaut Programme and Lunar Gateway.
Space42 presented developments from private sector initiatives such as Bayanat and Yahsat merger outcomes. Future plans aim to strengthen public-private partnerships, boosting revenues while expanding growth opportunities within the sector.
Attendees included Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Faisal Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Bannai, Talal Humaid Belhoul, and Dr. Mubarak Saeed bin Ghafan Al Jabri.
With inputs from WAM
Sign in with Google