UAE Launches National Space Industries Program to Boost Innovation and Growth

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Supreme Space Council, recently led an important meeting of the UAE Space Council. The meeting focused on reviewing the UAE’s new strategic approach to further develop its space sector.

The new strategy centers around three key goals. First, the UAE aims to become a leading global hub with a fast-moving, investment-friendly space ecosystem. Second, the country wants to establish itself as a worldwide leader in space partnerships and expand access to international markets. Third, the UAE plans to build world-class space infrastructure and facilities that meet the highest global standards.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the findings of the Space Economic Survey, which highlighted the sector's impressive growth over the last five years. He also launched the National Space Industries Programme, which is designed to boost the competitiveness of the UAE’s space industry and support both national and international companies operating in this field.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the strategic importance of the space sector for the UAE’s future. He said the sector is vital for building a knowledge-based economy and driving innovative solutions and technologies. These advancements will help the country prepare for global challenges and remain competitive.

He highlighted that investing in space is essential to accelerate the growth of the UAE’s space industries and improve their position regionally and globally. Sheikh Hamdan also noted the strong interest from leading international companies, which shows confidence in the UAE’s economic environment, regulations, and advanced infrastructure.

The Crown Prince outlined the ambitious targets for the future. The UAE aims to increase the value of its space economy by 60%, double the overall returns, and rank among the world’s top ten space economies by 2031. To achieve this, the country plans to double investments in space infrastructure and increase the number of national companies working in space industries.

The Space Economic Survey showed a 49% increase in total public and private sector spending on space over the past five years, demonstrating the country’s strong commitment to building a sustainable space ecosystem. Spending on space research and development has grown nine times since 2019, reflecting the UAE’s focus on scientific leadership and the creation of competitive technologies.

The survey also highlighted progress in empowering Emirati women in the space sector, with a 51% rise in the number of female citizens working in this field compared to the previous year. This shows the country’s efforts to promote gender equality and the important role women play in future-focused sectors.

The newly launched National Space Industries Programme includes various initiatives to encourage growth in the space sector. These include economic and investment policies that support emerging and established space companies. The programme also offers financial and operational support to help companies grow and stay competitive.

Additionally, the programme aims to open up local and international markets through dedicated channels, giving companies better opportunities to participate in national commercial contracts. It also focuses on promoting knowledge transfer and technology sharing between public and private organizations.

Overall, Sheikh Hamdan’s leadership and the UAE’s strategic plans aim to position the country as a global leader in the space industry. By investing in infrastructure, supporting companies, and encouraging innovation, the UAE is set to strengthen its space sector and contribute significantly to its economic growth and diversification.