MBRSC Showcases MBZ-SAT at Make it in the Emirates 2025

Post by : Layla Badr

Photo: Dubai Government Media Office

At the “Make it in the Emirates 2025” event, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is proudly showing off MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite ever built in the region. This satellite is a great example of how the UAE is using space projects to grow local industries, support new ideas, and bring different companies together. MBZ-SAT was launched into space on January 14, 2025, and it shows how far the UAE has come in building smart and powerful space technology. It also supports the country’s dream of becoming a global leader in making high-tech products and space tools.

The “Make it in the Emirates 2025” event is happening from May 19 to May 22 at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. At the MBRSC stand, visitors can see a full-size Qualification Model of the MBZ-SAT. They can also explore parts of the satellite that were built in the UAE. These parts include things like the aluminium honeycomb panel, frame structure, reaction wheel bracket, electronic box, and harness. All of these pieces were made with the help of local UAE companies. The stand also shows a model of the Rashid Rover, which is part of the UAE’s mission to explore the Moon and grow its space knowledge.

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H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, said that the Centre is proud to work with UAE-based partners to build strong, reliable space parts. He said MBZ-SAT is proof that when local companies work together, they can create world-class results. This also helps UAE’s factories grow and supports the country’s goal of building a strong economy based on technology and smart ideas. He added that being part of “Make it in the Emirates” shows how important it is to rely on local talent and push for innovation. These kinds of projects not only help space science but also help make the UAE a smarter, stronger country.

Made by Emiratis, Supported by UAE Companies

MBZ-SAT is designed and built completely by Emirati engineers. It marks a big step forward for the UAE’s space work. In fact, 90% of the satellite’s mechanical parts and many of its electronics came from UAE companies. These companies include Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, HALCON, Falcon, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA). They helped with making important satellite parts and shared their skills and knowledge, showing how strong and capable the UAE’s private companies are.

This satellite project has helped the local economy by creating jobs and giving UAE companies the chance to take part in high-tech space projects. It has also helped transfer new knowledge and tools, so the UAE can keep building a smart and future-ready space program.

This work supports the country’s big goal: to have a diverse, smart economy and become a leader in space around the world.

What the Local Companies Did

EPI and HALCON, both part of the EDGE Group, were key players in building important MBZ-SAT parts. EPI used its skills in precision engineering to make strong and accurate pieces, while HALCON focused on making printed circuit boards and software systems for the satellite.

Dr. Mohammed Alahbabi, a senior advisor at EDGE, said that the group is proud to support UAE space missions, starting from the Emirates Mars Mission to now with MBZ-SAT. EPI made over 100 high-quality parts, and HALCON worked on the electronic parts and software. These efforts prove that the UAE now has top-level technology and high standards in building space tools. He added that EDGE is dedicated to continuing this work with MBRSC and other space agencies.

Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director at Mubadala and Managing Director of Strata, said that Strata’s work on MBZ-SAT supports the “Make it in the UAE” goal. It shows how the UAE is improving its ability to build parts for planes and satellites, while also working with both local and global partners. Strata built some of the mechanical and flat parts of the satellite and used special aluminium panels that can survive the extreme conditions in space.

Abdulla said that MBRSC trusted Strata and other UAE companies with this important project, which shows how far these companies have come. He said their work reflects the leadership’s dream of building a strong economy, pushing for innovation, and making the UAE stand out in the world.

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) also played a big part by giving MBRSC their special CelestiAL solar aluminium. This is the first aluminium in the world made using solar energy. A UAE partner company used this aluminium to make satellite parts.

EGA’s CEO, Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, said the use of solar aluminium in MBZ-SAT shows how clean and smart technology is changing the future of both space and UAE industries. He said EGA is proud that their eco-friendly aluminium is now going into space.

Falcon Group of Companies also helped build some of the satellite’s mechanical parts. They used high-quality materials to meet the strict needs of space equipment.

Prabhu Badrinathen, CEO of Falcon Group, said they are proud to work with MBRSC. He said their team is committed to making accurate, high-quality parts that are ready for space missions. Their work supports the UAE’s dream of being a leader in both space exploration and high-level manufacturing.

Rockford Xellerix, another UAE company, worked on the satellite’s wiring systems and embedded electronic solutions.

Nauman Arshad, Founder and CTO of Rockford Xellerix, said they were proud to do all the wire harnessing for MBZ-SAT. He called the mission a huge opportunity and said it helps put the UAE at the top of space innovation and helps all of humanity.

A Future-Ready UAE

MBRSC’s showcase at “Make it in the Emirates 2025” is part of a bigger national effort to make the UAE a leader in smart, future-ready industries. With MBZ-SAT, the UAE is proving that it can build powerful space tools, support its own economy, and stand out globally through smart partnerships and home-grown talent. This mission is not just about space—it’s about building a strong, smart, and sustainable future for the whole country.

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