UAE Collaborates With GCC Nations At Space Workshop In Riyadh

In a significant step towards fostering regional collaboration in space exploration and technology, a delegation from the UAE Space Agency participated in a pivotal workshop titled "Cooperation in space between GCC countries," held in Riyadh during the first week of May. The delegation, led by Ibrahim Hamza Al Qasim, Deputy Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, put forth several innovative proposals aimed at enhancing cooperation among GCC countries in the field of space.

Among the key initiatives proposed were the sharing of space data, organizing a hackathon to encourage innovation, setting up educational workshops, creating a platform for uploading research papers, and facilitating the exchange or attraction of university students specializing in STEM fields. These initiatives are designed to open doors for Gulf students to join the National Space Academy and to standardize agreements with international entities active in the space sector.

The UAE Space Agency team also provided an insightful overview of the UAE's space programme, highlighting its major projects and initiatives. This includes advancements in the satellite industry, the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) Hope Probe, the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), the Space Economic Zones Programme, the Emirates Lunar Mission, and the UAE Astronaut Programme.

An introductory session on space activities within GCC countries offered a platform to discuss each country's space programmes and their achievements. The session aimed at proposing initiatives to enhance cooperation in scientific, technical, and research aspects related to space.

Ibrahim Hamza Al Qasim emphasized the shared goals and objectives among GCC countries, which focus on supporting scientific research and space exploration to improve quality of life and enable comprehensive development across various sectors. "Cooperation will contribute to improving our youth's skills and increasing economic growth attractiveness. It will also allow us to make innovative and sustainable achievements that serve our regional and humanitarian goals," Al Qasim stated.

Al Qasim further highlighted the UAE Space Agency's commitment to sharing experiences about the future of space and discussing joint projects that would bolster development in both the space and aviation sectors across GCC countries. The importance of unified space strategies and legislation was discussed, alongside enhancing Gulf presence globally, supporting entrepreneurship, facilitating access to space economic zones, and developing incentives for Gulf startups.

The two-day workshop underscored the belief among GCC countries in the importance of regional and international cooperation for the sustainable development of their national space sectors. It also highlighted opportunities for exchanging expertise on the future of space regionally and discussing future projects that would nurture progress in this vital sector. This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards enhancing the GCC's position on the global space map through innovative and sustainable achievements.

With inputs from WAM