The United Arab Emirates (UAE) cabinet adopted the National Space Policy, the most important element in the national plan to develop the space sector. The Space Policy is rudimentary for driving the entire sector forward within the framework of the UAE National Agenda, part of the UAE Vision 2021.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai said the UAE is taking pioneering steps towards not only joining the international space exploration community, but also competing with established players in the field before the country’s Golden Jubilee in 2021.
Addressing the cabinet, he explained that the UAE’s ambitions in the field fall in line with the vision of its founding fathers.
The meeting was chaired by Sheikh Mohammed at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi, and attended by Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.
“We have a strong economy, solid infrastructure, national competencies, and other accomplishments enabling us to enter the space race in time for our Golden Jubilee,” Sheikh Mohammed said.
“The nation’s founder had incredible foresight when he hosted a delegation from NASA in 1976 in an effort to send a clear message to his people and the people of the region and the world that our Emirati and Arab ambitions know no limits, and to draw a roadmap for the UAE to build on our ancestors' knowledge in astronomy, navigation, and space.”
He added that the UAE now operates more than six satellites and invests over Dh20 billion in space technology. “Our ambition is limitless and we are working tirelessly to realize it. We have the largest regional space transportation operator, the largest international companies providing satellite insurance services, an adequate legislative and regulatory environment, and a variety of research centers, all of which aim to ensure the wellbeing of our people and the world,” he stressed.
“Our goal is to build a strong and sustainable Emirati space sector that supports the interests of the nation and its vital sectors. A sector that serves to diversify the economy and develop the UAE's scientific prowess and the culture of innovation,” he concluded.
