On October 7, the UAE Cabinet approved the establishment of the Supreme Space Council. This council will focus on developing the UAE’s burgeoning space sector. The Council will be chaired by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council.
The council will oversee advancements and innovations in space technology while formulating sound security frameworks and collaborating with key international players. Salem Humaid AlMarri, director-general of MBRSC, said, “This milestone strengthens the country’s leading position in the sector globally and its sustainable ecosystem, ensuring continued success and achievement of the long-term goals set by the leadership.”
The space sector is currently valued at $400 billion. The UAE’s aim to further space research and expeditions will accelerate the nation’s ongoing collaborations with key players like the US. At present, the UAE is home to five space research facilities, three universities that offer specialized space programs, and the world-renowned satellite operators Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) and Thuraya, YahSat’s mobile satellite services subsidiary. With space investments surpassing the AED 22 billion mark, it is clear that building a robust space sector is high up on the oil-exporting nation’s agenda for the future.
