As the enabler for the UAE’s space sector and to showcase key projects and initiatives
As a strategic partner, the UAE Space Agency is leading the space pavilion’s first participation in the Dubai Airshow, which will take place from 13 to 17 November at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The agency will review its key projects, achievements, and initiatives, in addition to enhancing international strategic partnerships in this pioneering sector, with the participation of space agencies and regional and international companies. This comes within the framework of the agency’s strategy and role as an enabler of the space sector, and the UAE leadership’s vision.
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology and Chairperson of UAE Space Agency, said: “For the first time ever, the UAE Space Agency is the official strategic partner of the Dubai Airshow. The agency is leading diligent efforts in promoting the space pavilion which includes more than 25 local and international agencies participating and sponsoring the exhibition. Leading the first space pavilion reflects our commitment to enhancing and consolidating the UAE’s position in this vital sector. It stems from our belief that every step we take in this direction brings us closer to achieving our ambitions and creating a brighter future for generations to come.”
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri added: “The exhibition is expected to welcome over 115,000 visitors, 68% of whom are decision-makers in the fields of aviation, defense, and space. The Dubai Airshow is a significant strategic opportunity to strengthen relations with our international partners and explore new opportunities for cooperation and development in aviation and space, as they are an integral part of our national strategy to achieve sustainable development and enhance the UAE’s global position.”
His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, said: “Through our participation, we seek to showcase our national projects, achievements, and initiatives to promote the national space sector, and offer visitors an opportunity to learn about our progress and future projects in this field, in addition to highlighting our vision for the upcoming years.”
His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi added: “In addition to its scientific benefits, we believe that space can create a huge economic and social impact through international cooperation and knowledge exchange. The exhibition will receive more than 390 official delegations from 98 countries. We look forward to building a brighter future for the UAE and the world.”
Key participation
Led by the UAE Space Agency, the Space Pavilion at the Dubai Airshow is the largest space pavilion in the exhibition’s history to date. The pavilion will witness active participation from more than 25 exhibitors and sponsors, including international companies in addition to national institutions such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Technological Innovation Institute (TII), and Yahsat.
The UAE Space Agency is participating in several initiatives in this year’s edition of the Dubai Airshow. This includes dedicated areas for the Planet X Challenge and the Space Economic Zones Program. The UAE Space Agency seeks to enhance the role of the private sector startups in the field of space in the UAE to promote the country’s global position as a pioneer in the field of space investment and entrepreneurship.
Key Participations
The first space pavilion at the Dubai Airshow will host the ninth meeting of the Arab Space Cooperation Group, headed by His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, President of the Group. The meeting will highlight the latest developments of the Arab Satellite 813 Project and will witness transferring the presidency to the elected country during the meeting.
The UAE Space Agency will also announce the winners of the Planet X Challenge, a multidisciplinary contest which aims to inspire a new generation to explore careers in space, aerospace, and advanced technologies. The challenge targets startups and school and university students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The UAE Space Agency is expected to announce the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Space Debate, the first of its kind in the world, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, after the success of its inaugural edition in December 2022. More than 300 decision makers, ministers, and representatives of international space agencies attended the inaugural edition of the Abu Dhabi Space Debate, from more than 47 countries.
Projects and Initiatives
The UAE Space Agency will showcase its key projects and initiatives. This includes the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), a thirteen-year mission to perform a series of close flybys to make unique observations of seven main belt asteroids. EMA will drive significant economic opportunities, including new start-ups, international partnerships, and inward investment to the UAE’s space sector.
The UAE Space Agency will also highlight the Emirates Mars Mission’s (EMM) contribution to the global scientific community. So far, the Emirates Mars Mission’s ‘Hope Probe’ has unveiled a staggering amount of 3.3 Terabytes of atmospheric data from the red planet, publishing more than 18 scientific and research papers in prestigious international scientific journals.
Through its participation, the UAE Space Agency will showcase the Space Data Center, which aims to provide an innovative ecosystem to utilize space data and technologies to address global sustainability challenges, as well as the Space Analytics and Solutions (SAS) Program, which addresses three challenges, namely: Air Quality, Infrastructure, and Losses and Damages.
The UAE Space Agency will also highlight the Space Economic Zones Program, an integrated program which supports the establishment, growth, and sustainability of national companies in the space sector.
The Space Pavilion is an ideal opportunity to gain experience about the latest Emirati and international space innovations and projects. The UAE Space Agency’s participation in the exhibition highlights the UAE’s pioneering role in the space sector and its future aspirations in this field, through new commercial and investment opportunities that support the efforts of the global and local scientific community. It enhances the UAE's position as one of the leading countries in developing space technology.