UAE Space Program
A Nation's Journey from Desert Sands to the Stars
Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), established in 2006, serves as the cornerstone of the United Arab Emirates' ambitious space programme. Located in Dubai, MBRSC is the driving force behind the nation's efforts to establish itself as a major player in the global space industry. The centre is responsible for satellite development, ground station operations, space science research, and the UAE Astronaut Programme. Under visionary leadership, MBRSC has transformed the UAE from a nation with no space heritage into one that has successfully launched satellites, sent astronauts to the International Space Station, and dispatched the first Arab interplanetary mission to Mars.
Founded as the Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST), later rebranded as the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre to reflect its expanded mission and scope.
A multidisciplinary team of Emirati engineers, scientists, and researchers work across satellite engineering, space science, astronaut training, and mission operations at the centre.
From DubaiSat-1 to KhalifaSat and beyond, MBRSC has designed, developed, and operated a fleet of Earth observation satellites, building indigenous capability with each successive mission.
MBRSC operates through four core divisions: Satellite Development, Space Science, the UAE Astronaut Programme, and Ground Station Operations, each contributing to the nation's space capabilities.
Organizational Highlights
UAE Astronaut Programme
Launched in 2017, the UAE Astronaut Programme represents one of the most ambitious human spaceflight initiatives ever undertaken by an emerging space nation. Managed by MBRSC, the programme was designed to select, train, and send Emirati astronauts to the International Space Station, building a foundation for long-term human spaceflight capability. From over 4,000 initial applicants, a rigorous multi-stage selection process identified the finest candidates to represent the nation in orbit.
Programme Launch
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced the UAE Astronaut Programme, calling on Emirati citizens to apply for the chance to represent their nation in space. The programme received over 4,000 applications from across the UAE, reflecting the nation's deep enthusiasm for space exploration.
Selection Process
A multi-phase selection process assessed candidates through academic qualifications, physical fitness evaluations, psychological assessments, and technical aptitude tests. The rigorous screening narrowed the field from thousands to a final cohort of astronaut candidates ready for intensive training.
Hazzaa Al Mansoori — First Emirati in Space
Hazzaa Al Mansoori became the first Emirati and the first Arab astronaut to reach the International Space Station, launching aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft on September 25, 2019. During his 8-day mission, he conducted 16 scientific experiments in microgravity, inspired millions across the Arab world, and proved that the UAE could compete on the global stage of human spaceflight.
Sultan Al Neyadi — First Long-Duration Arab Mission
Sultan Saif Al Neyadi made history as the first Arab astronaut to undertake a long-duration mission aboard the ISS. Launching on SpaceX Crew-6 on March 2, 2023, he spent approximately six months in orbit conducting over 200 scientific experiments, performing a historic spacewalk, and serving as a mission specialist. His mission marked a transformative leap for the UAE's space programme, demonstrating the nation's readiness for sustained human spaceflight operations.
Nora Al Matrooshi — First Arab Female Astronaut Candidate
Nora Al Matrooshi was selected in 2021 as part of the second batch of UAE astronaut candidates, becoming the first Arab female astronaut candidate. A mechanical engineering graduate from UAE University, she is currently undergoing training at NASA's Johnson Space Center as part of the 2021 NASA Astronaut Candidate Class. Her selection represents the UAE's commitment to gender equality and diversity in space exploration.
National Space Strategy
The UAE National Space Policy 2030 outlines a comprehensive roadmap for the nation's space ambitions, positioning the UAE as a global hub for space science, technology, and exploration. Central to this vision is the Mars 2117 project, an audacious plan to establish the first human settlement on Mars within a century. The Hope Probe (Al-Amal), launched in 2020, became the first Arab interplanetary mission, successfully entering Mars orbit in February 2021 and delivering groundbreaking data about the Martian atmosphere.
Advancing fundamental space science research through satellite missions, Mars atmospheric studies, and microgravity experiments. Building a world-class scientific community capable of contributing original discoveries to global knowledge.
Developing indigenous satellite manufacturing capabilities, propulsion systems, and ground infrastructure. Creating a self-sufficient space technology ecosystem that reduces dependence on foreign suppliers and generates exportable expertise.
Investing in education and training to develop a skilled Emirati workforce in aerospace engineering, astrophysics, and space operations. Inspiring the next generation through STEM outreach and the astronaut programme.
Forging strategic partnerships with leading space agencies including NASA, ESA, JAXA, and Roscosmos. Participating in multinational missions and contributing to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space for the benefit of all humanity.
Strategic Analysis
Global Positioning
The UAE has positioned itself as the leading space power in the Arab world and one of the most dynamic emerging space nations globally. In less than two decades, the country has achieved milestones that took established space powers decades longer. The Hope Probe mission made the UAE only the fifth entity in history to reach Mars orbit, joining the ranks of NASA, ESA, Roscosmos, and ISRO.
Compared with other emerging space nations such as South Korea, Brazil, and South Africa, the UAE stands out for the pace and ambition of its programme. While these nations have focused primarily on satellite programmes, the UAE has simultaneously pursued satellite development, interplanetary exploration, and human spaceflight, demonstrating an integrated approach that maximizes strategic impact.
Economic Diversification
The space programme is a cornerstone of the UAE's broader economic diversification strategy. As the nation transitions away from hydrocarbon dependence, investments in space technology create high-value jobs, attract international talent, stimulate innovation across adjacent sectors, and generate new revenue streams from satellite services, data analytics, and space tourism.
The UAE Space Agency estimates that the national space sector contributes billions of dirhams to the economy annually. The government has committed to significant long-term investment in space infrastructure, research facilities, and human capital development, treating the space programme not as an expense but as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth and knowledge-based transformation.
Key Milestones
From the launch of its first satellite to an audacious vision of colonizing Mars, the UAE's space journey is a testament to bold leadership, strategic investment, and unwavering national determination.
DubaiSat-1 Launched
The UAE's first Earth observation satellite was launched, marking the country's entry into the space age. Developed with a South Korean partnership, DubaiSat-1 provided 2.5-metre resolution imagery for environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management.
DubaiSat-2 Launched
The second-generation satellite featured enhanced capabilities with 1-metre resolution imaging. Emirati engineers played a significantly larger role in the design and development process, building crucial in-house expertise for future missions.
UAE Astronaut Programme Announced
The UAE announced its national astronaut programme, inviting citizens to apply for the historic opportunity to become the nation's first astronauts. Over 4,000 applications were received, demonstrating the deep public enthusiasm for space exploration.
KhalifaSat Launched
KhalifaSat became the first satellite fully designed, built, and tested by Emirati engineers at MBRSC. Offering sub-metre resolution imagery, it represented a major milestone in the UAE's drive toward self-reliant space technology capability.
Hazzaa Al Mansoori's Mission
Hazzaa Al Mansoori launched to the ISS aboard a Soyuz spacecraft, becoming the first Emirati and the first Arab astronaut to visit the International Space Station. His 8-day mission included 16 scientific experiments and captivated audiences across the Middle East and the world.
Hope Probe Launched to Mars
The Emirates Mars Mission (Al-Amal/Hope Probe) launched from Japan's Tanegashima Space Center on July 19, 2020, marking the first Arab interplanetary mission. The probe was designed to study the Martian atmosphere, weather patterns, and climate dynamics over a full Martian year.
Hope Probe Enters Mars Orbit
On February 9, 2021, the Hope Probe successfully entered Mars orbit after a 7-month journey, making the UAE only the fifth entity to reach Mars. The mission coincided with the nation's 50th anniversary, transforming a celebration of the past into a bold statement about the future.
Sultan Al Neyadi's 6-Month ISS Mission
Sultan Al Neyadi launched aboard SpaceX Crew-6, becoming the first Arab astronaut to complete a long-duration mission on the ISS. Over approximately six months, he conducted over 200 experiments, performed a historic spacewalk, and served as a beacon of inspiration for the entire Arab world.
Mars 2117 Settlement Vision
The UAE's most ambitious long-term goal envisions establishing the first human settlement on Mars by 2117. This 100-year plan encompasses research into sustainable habitation, transportation, energy generation, and food production on the Red Planet, laying the groundwork for humanity's future as a multi-planetary species.
International Partnerships
The UAE's space programme thrives on strategic international partnerships, leveraging the expertise of the world's leading space agencies while contributing its own growing capabilities to the global space community.
The UAE's most extensive partnership. NASA provided astronaut training at Johnson Space Center, facilitated Sultan Al Neyadi's Crew-6 mission, and collaborates on ISS research experiments. Nora Al Matrooshi is training within NASA's astronaut candidate programme. Joint initiatives span Earth science, Mars exploration data sharing, and lunar exploration planning under the Artemis Accords.
The European Space Agency collaborates with the UAE on satellite technology, Earth observation, and astronaut training. ESA provided critical support for the Hope Probe mission through its deep space network for communication and tracking. Joint research programmes explore climate science, space debris mitigation, and next-generation satellite technologies.
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency played a pivotal role in the Hope Probe launch from Tanegashima Space Center using the H-IIA rocket. JAXA and the UAE continue to collaborate on planetary science, asteroid exploration research, and Kibo laboratory module experiments aboard the ISS. The partnership exemplifies successful cross-cultural cooperation in space.
Russia's space agency facilitated Hazzaa Al Mansoori's historic 2019 mission aboard the Soyuz spacecraft to the ISS. Roscosmos provided astronaut training at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City, including Soyuz spacecraft operations, survival training, and Russian language instruction. The partnership was instrumental in launching the UAE's human spaceflight programme.
Future Vision
The UAE's space ambitions extend far beyond Earth orbit. With a century-spanning vision that encompasses Mars colonization, lunar exploration, space tourism, and advanced satellite constellations, the nation is charting a course toward a future where space is an integral part of daily life and economic prosperity.
The Mars 2117 project is the UAE's most ambitious undertaking: building the first human settlement on the Red Planet within a century. Research encompasses sustainable habitation technologies, closed-loop life support systems, in-situ resource utilization, energy generation, and the psychological challenges of interplanetary living. Mars Science City, a simulated Mars environment in the desert, serves as a testbed for these technologies.
The UAE has announced plans to send a rover to the Moon as part of the Emirates Lunar Mission. The Rashid rover, developed by MBRSC, aims to explore previously unstudied regions of the lunar surface, collecting data on soil composition, dust dynamics, and the lunar plasma environment. This mission will position the UAE as a contributor to the global effort to return humans to the Moon.
The UAE is exploring opportunities in the emerging space tourism sector, leveraging its existing tourism infrastructure and global brand. Plans include partnerships with commercial spaceflight companies, development of spaceport facilities, and creating a regulatory framework that positions the UAE as a gateway to suborbital and orbital tourism experiences.
Expanding the national satellite fleet with next-generation Earth observation and communications satellites. Plans include deploying a constellation of small satellites for enhanced environmental monitoring, maritime tracking, and telecommunications coverage across the region, supporting the UAE's digital transformation and smart city initiatives.
"The UAE's space program represents a nation's commitment to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge."