Space42 Launches First High Altitude Platform Stations Manufacturing Facility In Abu Dhabi

Mira Aerospace, a key player in the High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) sector and a subsidiary of the UAE-based Space42, has recently opened the doors to the MENA region's inaugural HAPS manufacturing center located in Abu Dhabi. This pioneering facility is set to significantly boost the subsidiary’s ability to produce, engage in cutting-edge research and development, and commercialize HAPS technology, all while fostering sustainable growth over the long term.

The new 4,500-square-meter facility is poised to produce over 20 HAPS Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) each year, catering to a variety of applications including civil, environmental, and defense sectors. This strategic move aims to reinforce the UAE's leadership in sovereign aerospace innovation and space-based connectivity, aligning with the broader mission of Space42.

Space42's initiative to construct this state-of-the-art manufacturing centre aligns with the UAE's National Space Strategy 2030. The strategy underscores the nation's commitment to establishing a self-reliant space technology, manufacturing, and research and development infrastructure. This endeavor not only accelerates innovation, but also fortifies the UAE's resilience in high-tech industries, highlighting the country's steadfast dedication to becoming a global leader in space technology.

Khaled Al Marzooqi, CEO of Mira Aerospace and Space42, elaborated on the strategic importance of this development, stating, "As the global demand for HAPS accelerates, Space42 is making strategic investments to strengthen our leadership in this growing market. The decision to build our new HAPS manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi reflects our commitment to creating reliable, cost-effective systems with advanced space technology and plays a central role in developing sovereign capabilities that support our long-term business objectives and the UAE's broader economic goals."

The establishment of the HAPS facility is one of several targeted investments by Space42 aimed at enhancing vertically integrated manufacturing and data infrastructure capabilities. In a significant collaboration with ICEYE, the forefront provider of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, Space42 aims to co-produce Earth Observation (EO) satellites within the UAE. This initiative directly contributes to the UAE's EO Space Program, reinforcing the country's capabilities in satellite-based remote sensing. Remarkably, the UAE stands out as the only nation in the Middle East and among a select group of space-faring nations to possess domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities.

The Abu Dhabi facility marks a significant milestone for Mira Aerospace, which has been actively advancing in the HAPS domain. Notably, in February 2025, Mira Aerospace collaborated with XRANGE to establish a permanent testing hub for high-altitude, long-endurance UAV trials. In October 2024, the company unveiled two advanced payloads designed for various uses including environmental monitoring, disaster management, urban planning, and agriculture.

The EO payload provides precise data for critical decision-making, while the Telecommunications payload ensures direct-to-device connectivity, facilitating data relay between aerial and ground platforms. Space42 has emerged as a global leader in HAPS technology, notably being the first to demonstrate 5G connectivity from the stratosphere with heavier-than-air HAPS.

This facility is instrumental in Space42's overarching strategy to scale its operations efficiently and make a significant impact across the global industry. By centralizing global operations and catering to the growing demand for HAPS solutions, Space42 aims to become the go-to partner for premium geospatial data. With this local manufacturing base, the company is well-positioned to develop unique competencies, scale operations effectively, and maintain strong financial oversight.

Conclusively, Space42's new manufacturing center in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the company's ambitious vision for the future. By bolstering its production capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to advanced R&D, Space42 is not only contributing to the UAE's economic and technological goals but also setting new standards in the aerospace and space connectivity sectors globally.