UAE Strengthens Space Collaboration with Japan in Historic Visit

A delegation from the UAE Space Agency recently visited Japan in an official trip aimed at strengthening international cooperation in the fields of space exploration, scientific research, and advanced space industries. The delegation was led by Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, who is not only the Minister of Sports but also the Chairman of the UAE Space Agency.

The visit is part of the UAE’s continued efforts to expand its global partnerships in space, enhance scientific knowledge, and encourage advanced technologies that can contribute to the growth of the space sector.

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UAE’s Vision for Space

Dr Al Falasi emphasized that the UAE has a clear and ambitious vision for the future of its space sector. He mentioned the National Space Strategy 2030, which focuses on building a sustainable space economy, supporting scientific research, and encouraging the private sector to actively participate in space projects and technologies.

He stated, “The UAE works closely with international partners to build a strong space ecosystem. Our goal is long-term sustainable growth in all areas related to space.”

Dr Al Falasi also highlighted that the visit to Japan shows the UAE’s commitment to international collaboration. He explained that the UAE aims to act as a bridge between national goals and global initiatives, helping create a more integrated global space ecosystem that benefits everyone. Through partnerships with Japan, the UAE hopes to support ambitious national programs that open new opportunities in science, technology, and space exploration.

According to him, working together with global partners reflects the UAE’s leading position in space science and the space economy, not only in the region but across the world.

Strengthening UAE-Japan Space Relations

The delegation also included Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency. Al Qubaisi described the visit as a milestone in the strong relationship between the UAE and Japan, calling Japan one of the world’s top leaders in space technology.

He said, “During this productive visit, we explored advanced developments in space industries and discussed joint projects that will improve national capabilities and create new opportunities for our youth.”

Al Qubaisi also noted that this cooperation marks the beginning of a new phase of scientific and industrial partnerships, benefiting both countries and helping the global space community progress.

Meetings with Japanese Officials

At the start of the visit, the UAE delegation met with senior officials from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. The meeting was led by MATSUO Takehiko, Vice Minister for International Affairs.

The discussions focused on opportunities for collaboration in developing space-related industries and supporting innovation in space technologies. Both sides expressed interest in creating partnerships that would enhance space exploration capabilities and share knowledge between the countries.

Visit to JAXA Tsukuba Space Centre

The delegation then visited the JAXA Tsukuba Space Centre, one of Japan’s leading space research facilities. They were welcomed by Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

During the visit, Dr Yamakawa introduced the UAE delegation to Japan’s scientific and technical initiatives. This included advanced space sensing systems, satellite laboratories, and programs focused on deep space exploration. The UAE team also learned about Japan’s achievements in both space science research and industrial technology development.

Tour of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Plant

The UAE delegation also toured the Tobeshima plant of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), which is one of Japan’s major centers for spacecraft and satellite manufacturing.

Dr Al Falasi met with Iwao Igarashi, Head of Space at MHI. They discussed ways to enhance collaboration in space manufacturing, knowledge transfer, and capacity building between the UAE and Japan. This meeting emphasized sharing technical expertise and improving industrial capabilities for future space projects.

Opportunities for UAE Youth and Industry

Both Dr Al Falasi and Al Qubaisi highlighted that these partnerships will create new opportunities for UAE youth. They stressed the importance of involving young scientists and engineers in international space programs, which will help build local expertise and inspire the next generation of space innovators.

By learning from Japan’s experience in space exploration and advanced technologies, the UAE aims to develop its own space programs, grow its private space sector, and contribute to global space initiatives.

Looking Ahead: UAE and Global Collaboration

The UAE delegation’s visit to Japan is seen as a significant step in expanding international collaboration in the space sector. It reflects the UAE’s strategy to work with global leaders, strengthen scientific partnerships, and foster an ecosystem where both countries can benefit mutually.

The delegation focused not only on technology and industrial cooperation but also on scientific research, innovation, and education, ensuring that the benefits of these collaborations reach all sectors of society.

Dr Al Falasi concluded, “Through partnerships with countries like Japan, the UAE aims to support ambitious space programs, create opportunities for our youth, and contribute to a global space community that benefits all of humanity.”

This visit underscores the UAE’s dedication to becoming a global hub for space science and technology. By collaborating with Japan, one of the world’s leaders in space, the UAE is positioning itself as a key player in the international space community. The partnerships formed during this visit are expected to strengthen both nations’ space capabilities, inspire the younger generation, and promote scientific and industrial progress in the years to come.

Through initiatives like these, the UAE is not only investing in its own future in space but also contributing to global knowledge, innovation, and cooperation in the rapidly growing field of space exploration.