Sheikh Hamdan launched a new UAE space innovation programme worth AED1bn to boost research, partnerships and advanced technologies.
DUBAI: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched a major AED1 billion UAE space innovation programme aimed at expanding international partnerships, accelerating advanced research and strengthening the country’s role in the global space economy.
The announcement was made during a meeting of the Supreme Space Council chaired by Sheikh Hamdan, who said the UAE’s space sector remains one of the country’s most important strategic industries supporting a knowledge-driven and innovation-focused economy.
The UAE has rapidly emerged as one of the Middle East’s leading space powers over the past decade through projects including the Hope Probe mission to Mars, astronaut programmes and satellite development initiatives. The country has also increased investments in research, advanced manufacturing and international cooperation to strengthen its long-term position in the global space sector.
The new UAE space innovation programme will allocate AED1bn ($272m) to support international cooperation in space research and development. Officials said the initiative will focus on advanced technology localisation, knowledge exchange and building stronger partnerships between UAE institutions, global research centres and private sector companies.
The programme also supports the UAE National Space Strategy 2031, which aims to increase the contribution of the space sector to the national economy while strengthening local research, manufacturing and innovation capabilities.
During the meeting, officials reviewed updates on the UAE’s participation in NASA’s Artemis programme, which focuses on supporting long-term human presence on the moon. Discussions also included plans for a sovereign satellite constellation developed and operated within the UAE.
Sheikh Hamdan said the UAE space innovation programme would help empower national talent, attract global investments and create sustainable economic opportunities linked to future space technologies and industries.
Officials added that the initiative is designed to strengthen the UAE’s competitiveness in international space markets while positioning the country as a global centre for innovation, partnerships and advanced aerospace development.
