The UAE Space Agency brought together the Dubai Airshow Advisory Board, a group of influential leaders and innovators from the aviation and space sectors to delve into the latest developments and prospects for participation in the upcoming Dubai Airshow, scheduled for November 13 to 17, 2023, at the Dubai World Central Airport (DWC).
Notable attendees included Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology and Chairperson of UAE Space Agency; His Excellency Omran Sharaf, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Advanced Science and Technology; His Excellency Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency; His Excellency Ibrahim Hamza Al Qasim, Deputy Director General of the UAESA; Mikail Houari, President of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa; and Kuljit S Ghanta-Aura, President of Boeing in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, among other distinguished members of the advisory board for the exhibition.
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri said: “As technology progresses and as we move towards investment in the space and aviation sector, the UAE seeks, through a robust approach, to utilise advanced technology in the space sector and make significant investment in research and development. Innovation and technological development are the core of our priorities to achieve global leadership and open new horizons in this vital field.”
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri added: “We rely on sustainable visions and strategies to support local industries and enhance the national economy, by benefiting from local resources and expertise and localization efforts in the sector through the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign and our pioneering space projects.”
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri continued: “As the UAE moves towards investing in space exploration, we are working to transform these space opportunities into promising investment opportunities and opening new channels for international cooperation during the Dubai Airshow, while providing innovative commercial space services that meet the needs of the market.”
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri thanked UAESA’s partners in the space industry, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Mubadala, Yahsat, as well as research and study institutes. Her Excellency stressed the importance of their continued contributions in supporting joint efforts to achieve the UAE’s ambitious vision in space.
His Excellency Salem Al Qubaisi said: "Joint coordination is a vital element in achieving excellence and distinction. Combining efforts and aligning visions leads to results that surpass expectations.”
His Excellency Salem Al Qubaisi added: “Effective communication and cooperation are key to provide an outstanding experience for both attendees and participants at the Dubai Airshow."
The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including the latest developments, the exhibition's vision, its objectives in enhancing communication and collaboration among international companies and institutions, and investment in national and international space companies in the UAE. This supports sustainable development in the space and aviation sectors, attracting investments, strengthening the national economy, and contributing to the comprehensive development renaissance in the UAE.
Additionally, the meeting explored the UAE Space Agency's efforts to promote the Dubai Airshow on regional and global levels. The Agency is working closely with various stakeholders to ensure a unique edition of the event this year. UAESA’s plans include showcasing current and future national space projects and organising interactive workshops with experts in the field of space during the exhibition.
This year's edition of the Dubai Airshow is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The event, taking place at the Dubai World Central Airport (DWC) from November 13 to 17, 2023, will spotlight the latest trends in space technologies and efforts to localise the industry through the "Make it in the Emirates" campaign. It will also emphasise the pivotal role of startups in accelerating the realisation of sustainability goals in the sector.