UAE Cabinet Approves Formation Of Supreme Space Council Under Hamdan Bin Mohammed's Leadership

The UAE Cabinet, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has sanctioned the establishment of the Supreme Space Council. This permanent body will report directly to the Cabinet and be chaired by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The council aims to enhance the UAE's position in the space sector through strategic oversight and coordination.

The council's composition includes key figures such as the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, the Minister of Economy, and the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the UAE Space Agency. Other members include the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, and Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Bannai, who serves as an advisor to the President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology.

One of the primary roles of this council is to approve public policies that regulate space activities. It will also define national priorities within the space sector. Identifying necessary technologies to ensure technological independence is another critical task. The council will set investment priorities for both public and private entities involved in space-related activities.

The council is tasked with approving strategies that focus on space security in collaboration with international partners. It will manage infrastructure, facilities, and assets within the space sector to ensure integration across all relevant sectors. This comprehensive approach aims to bolster the UAE's capabilities in space exploration and technology.

Capacity building within the space sector is a significant focus for the council. It plans to establish partnerships at local, regional, and international levels that benefit related industries. By fostering these collaborations, the council seeks to enhance knowledge sharing and technological advancement in space exploration.

The council will also review legislation, policies, strategies, and national programmes related to space activities. This will be done in coordination with appropriate authorities to ensure alignment with national goals. Such oversight ensures that all initiatives are consistent with broader strategic objectives.

UAE Space Agency's Role

The UAE Space Agency has been designated as the General Secretariat for this new council. Its responsibilities include providing technical and administrative support to facilitate smooth operations. This role underscores its importance in driving forward the nation's ambitions in space exploration.

By establishing this council, the UAE aims to strengthen its leadership in space technology and innovation. The strategic direction provided by this body will be crucial in navigating future challenges and opportunities within this dynamic field.

With inputs from WAM