The Agency was announced in July with the goal of sending an unmanned mission to Mars by 2021.
The law, which was published in the Official Gazette, stated that the Agency would have its headquarters in Abu Dhabi and have a branch in Dubai.
“We aim for the UAE to be among the top countries in aerospace by 2021. We have a great belief in the talents of our young people and the strongest determination, the greatest ambitions and a clear plan to reach our targets.” Sheikh Khalifa said.
The first meeting of the UAE Space Agency was held in July and was led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, who directed all government institutions to provide maximum support.
The UAE is one of only nine countries with space programs to explore the Red Planet. The Mars probe’s nine-month and more than 60 million kilometer journey will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the UAE’s formation.
“The UAE Mars probe represents the Islamic world’s entry into the era of space exploration. We will prove that we are capable of delivering new scientific contributions to humanity,” Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan then said.
“The UAE’s purpose is to build Emirati technical and intellectual capabilities in the fields of aerospace and space exploration and to enter the space industry and to make use of space technology in a way that enhances the country’s development plans.” said Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai
“Despite all the tensions and the conflicts across the Middle East, we have proved today how positive a contribution the Arab people can make to humanity through great achievements, given the right circumstances and ingredients. Our region is a region of civilization. Our destiny is, once again, to explore, to create, to build and to civilize,” he continued.
U.A.E. investments in space technologies already exceed AED20 billion (over US$ 5 billion), including satellite data and TV broadcast company, Al Yah Satellite Communications, mobile satellite communication company, Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications and Earth mapping and observation system, Dubai Sat.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said the UAE Space Agency would be responsible for supervising and organizing all such activities, developing the sector, ensuring knowledge transfer, enhancing the UAE’s position as a global player in aerospace, and maximizing the contribution of space industries to the national economy. The agency will report to the Cabinet and enjoy financial and administrative independence.
Source: WAM; The National
