UAE strengthens global position in space exploration sector

Salem Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, said the UAE achieved major milestones in the first quarter of the year, reinforcing its international standing in space exploration and the utilisation of space resources.

Speaking to Emirates News Agency, Al Qubaisi highlighted the launch of the National Space Strategy 2031, the extension of the Emirates Mars Mission Hope Probe until 2028, and the UAE’s leadership in establishing the Space Situational Awareness Expert Group within the framework of the United Nations.

Three pillars of the National Space Strategy

Al Qubaisi explained that the National Space Strategy 2031 is built on three key pillars: building a resilient, investment-attractive space ecosystem; strengthening global leadership through partnerships and market access; and developing advanced infrastructure and space facilities.

The strategy aims to double space economy revenues by 2031, increase the sector’s economic added value by 60 per cent, position the UAE among the world’s top 10 space economies, and increase national exports and investment in the sector.

Major scientific and economic projects

Al Qubaisi noted that the UAE’s projects have strengthened the country’s standing as a trusted international partner in the space industry.

Among the most notable projects are the Hope Probe, which made the UAE the fifth nation to reach Mars orbit; the Emirates Mission to Explore the Asteroid Belt; and the Space Data Centre project, which supports innovative solutions using space data.

Development of radar satellites and technology

The UAE is also advancing strategic initiatives, including the Sirb Programme, which focuses on developing radar satellites capable of delivering high-resolution imaging around the clock and in all conditions.

The programme is expected to support several key sectors and strengthen the competitiveness of the national economy.

Investing in Emirati talent

The Director-General of the UAE Space Agency stressed that the agency continues to invest in Emirati talent through specialised programmes such as the National Space Academy, which provides advanced practical training in research, development, mission operations and emerging technologies.

He confirmed that Emirati professionals are directly involved in major projects, including the asteroid belt mission, engineering design, operational testing, and Hope Probe data analysis, in cooperation with local and international partners.

Future projects and investments

Al Qubaisi said the agency is continuing to implement long-term strategic projects, including preparations for the asteroid belt mission, the development of the Sirb radar satellite system, and the expansion of the national space data ecosystem using artificial intelligence and big data technologies.

He also highlighted efforts to launch the National Space Industries Programme, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the UAE’s space sector and supporting local and international companies through incentives, investment policies and advanced facilities.

AED44 billion investment base

Al Qubaisi affirmed that these projects and initiatives are supported by investments exceeding AED44 billion, which are expected to help double space economy revenues and increase the sector’s economic value by 60 per cent by 2031.

He added that these achievements reinforce the UAE’s standing as a leading global hub for space science, exploration and industry.