UAE Supreme Space Council

The UAE Establishes a Supreme Space Council to Accelerate Space Industry Development

The United Arab Emirates Cabinet has announced the formation of the Supreme Space Council to boost the nation’s presence in the global space industry. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, will head the council.

The council’s creation highlights the UAE's ambition to become a global leader in space technology. This new body will focus on strategic initiatives aimed at:

– Enhancing national security: Developing and implementing programs to safeguard space infrastructure and ensure cybersecurity.

– Promoting space science and technology: Supporting research, development, and innovation in the space field.

– Strengthening international cooperation: Building partnerships with leading space agencies worldwide.

– Developing talent: Preparing highly skilled professionals for the space sector.

The UAE has already made impressive strides in space exploration, with investments in the sector surpassing AED 22 billion. Notable achievements include:

• In 2019, Hazza Al Mansouri became the first UAE citizen to journey into space.
• The UAE now has five space research centres, three universities offering space-related programs, and globally recognized satellite operators.