Hamdan Bin Mohammed Chairs Supreme Space Council Meeting To Review UAE's Strategic Space Sector Goals
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, led the Supreme Space Council's second meeting. The gathering focused on a new strategic direction for the UAE's space sector. This strategy aims to make the UAE a leading hub for space investments, partnerships, and infrastructure that meets global standards.
The meeting also highlighted the launch of the National Space Industries Programme. This initiative is designed to boost the competitiveness of the UAE's space sector. It offers a range of initiatives, including policies that encourage investment in both emerging and established space companies.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the importance of investing in space to drive economic growth and innovation. He stated that this investment is crucial for enhancing the UAE's regional and international competitiveness in space technologies. "The new strategic approach for the space sector reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to developing an advanced space ecosystem," he said.
The National Space Industries Programme also aims to improve market access for local and international companies. It provides opportunities through national contracts and access to advanced facilities. The programme supports knowledge transfer between public and private sectors, aiming to double both company numbers and exports over five years.
The Space Economic Survey showed significant growth in spending on space activities over five years, with a 49% increase from both public and private sectors. Spending on research and development has increased ninefold since 2019, highlighting the UAE's focus on scientific leadership.
Sheikh Hamdan noted plans to increase the value added by the space economy by 60% by 2031. He aims to position the UAE among the top ten global space economies by then. "Driven by this vision, we are working to increase the value added by the space economy by 60%," he stated.
Empowering Women in Space
The survey also revealed a 51% rise in Emirati women working in the space sector compared to last year. This growth reflects an enabling environment that supports women's roles in future-focused industries.
Sheikh Hamdan stressed strengthening national capabilities by doubling investments in infrastructure assets and facilities. He aims to double national companies operating in space industries, consolidating the UAE as a hub for advanced technologies.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Goals
The eagerness of international companies to engage with UAE initiatives shows strong confidence in its economic environment. "The eagerness of leading international companies... reflects their strong confidence," Sheikh Hamdan remarked.
The meeting reviewed outcomes from October 2025's Space Retreat, attended by ministers and over 100 leaders from various sectors. Key attendees included Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Lieutenant General Talal Humaid Belhoul, and Major General Dr. Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri.
This comprehensive strategy underscores the UAE's dedication to fostering innovation-driven industries within its expanding global footprint in space exploration.
With inputs from WAM
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