Latest news with #UAESpaceAgency


Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Science
- Gulf Today
Eco-engine for mini-satellites activated
Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the UAE Space Agency announced on Monday the activation of the first precise and environmentally friendly propulsion system for use in 6-unit mini-satellites, which was fully designed, built, and tested within the UAE. The project is part of the Mini-Satellite Initiative, supported by the UAE Space Agency through a formal agreement with Khalifa University. The initiative aims to demonstrate orbital technology for missions sent to low Earth orbit (LEO). Six university researchers and senior associates from the agency are involved in the project, which has now entered the final phase of pilot operation at the university's Small Satellite Laboratory. Bati Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, stated: 'This strategic achievement reflects our commitment to sustainable space technologies and highlights the capabilities of our national talents in engineering.' Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, added: 'The project aligns with the UAE's vision to enhance local and regional space capabilities. These advanced systems represent a qualitative leap in the nation's ability to independently verify complex and sustainable space technologies. Reaching the final phase of pilot operation underscores the university's dedication to nurturing national talents and strengthening local infrastructure.' The propulsion unit will be integrated into a fully operational small satellite system, with its launch expected by the end of 2026, Al Hajri added, indicating that its primary mission is to demonstrate orbital propulsion capabilities through altitude control and orbital maneuvers.


TECHx
12-06-2025
- Business
- TECHx
Dubai Crown Prince Meets UAE Space Startups
Home » Latest news » Dubai Crown Prince Meets UAE Space Startups His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Supreme Space Council, recently met with representatives of leading space sector startups in the UAE. The meeting was held to support and advance the national space ecosystem. His Highness reaffirmed the UAE's aim to strengthen its global leadership in the space industry. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships. He noted that strategic collaboration and long-term investment in emerging technologies are key to building an advanced and innovative space ecosystem. He also expressed confidence in UAE-based companies and entrepreneurs. Their contribution is seen as vital to driving the sector's growth and boosting the country's status as a global space hub. The Crown Prince revealed that the space sector is a major driver of future and sustainable economic growth. He added that the UAE is working to create a supportive environment for local businesses and attract new investment opportunities. Sheikh Hamdan reported that the private sector is now leading the UAE's space efforts. He praised the maturity of national investments made over the last 30 years. Several UAE-based companies participated in the meeting. These firms represent a range of specialisations, including: Internet of Things (IoT) solutions Artificial intelligence, robotics, and remote sensing Edge computing and high-resolution Earth observation They also showcased developments in reusable launch systems and simulation technologies. Participants discussed their current projects, long-term strategies, and future investments. They stressed the need to expand operations locally and globally, while strengthening collaboration with the government. They also highlighted the UAE's flexible regulations and advanced infrastructure. These were described as key enablers of innovation and growth. The Space Economic Zones Programme was welcomed by attendees. It was praised for enabling partnerships and supporting long-term development in the sector. The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Secretary-General of the Supreme Space Council. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the UAE Space Agency. Company representatives present included: Khalid Al Awadi, founder of Rimal Ibrahim Al Obaidly, founder of Ardhiyat Al Ibdaa Information Solutions David Critchley, CEO of 4EI Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, CEO of Marlan Space Alex Lapir, CEO of Aliensense Abdulhalim Jallad, co-founder of Oryx Space Stan Rudenko, CEO of Aspire Space Technology The meeting reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to a globally competitive and integrated space industry.


Sharjah 24
11-06-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Dubai CP explores future of space sector with UAE-based startups
Underscored the importance of strong partnerships and strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors His Highness Sheikh Hamdan underscored the importance of strong partnerships and strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors as a foundation for developing an advanced and innovative space ecosystem. He highlighted that continuous innovation and long-term investment in future technologies are essential to this progress. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan also expressed confidence in the capabilities of UAE-based companies and entrepreneurs, noting their crucial role in driving the growth of the local space industry and strengthening the country's position as a leading global hub in this strategic field. Space sector as a vital driver of the future and sustainable economic growth His Highness Sheikh Hamdan also highlighted the space sector as a vital driver of the future and sustainable economic growth. He stressed the UAE's ongoing efforts to build a supportive environment that fosters the growth of national companies and unlock new opportunities for investment and innovation, boosting the country's global competitiveness and leadership in space. The private sector is leading the space scene in the UAE, reaffirming the maturity of national investments that have been established over the past three decades A number of the UAE based companies took part in the meeting, representing a wide range of specialisations, including locally developed Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, artificial intelligence and remote sensing, commercial space ecosystem development, edge computing for robotics applications, high-resolution Earth observation via microsatellites, as well as AI systems, robotics, interactive simulation technologies, and reusable space launch systems. Participants shared insights Participants shared insights into their current projects, long-term strategies, and future investment plans in support of the national economy. Discussions focused on strengthening public-private collaboration, expanding operations both locally and internationally, and exploring promising opportunities within the UAE's growing space sector—highlighting the private sector's central role in shaping a globally competitive and integrated space industry. Company representatives reaffirmed their commitment to the UAE's space ambitions and outlined plans to expand their operations within the country. They praised the UAE's flexible regulatory framework and advanced infrastructure as key enablers of sustained investment. Attendees also welcomed initiatives such as the Space Economic Zones Programme, which they said play a vital role in enabling collaboration and fostering long-term, sustainable growth across the space ecosystem. Attendees The meeting was attended by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, Secretary-General of the Supreme Space Council, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the UAE Space Agency; Khalid Al Awadi, founder of Rimal; Ibrahim Al Obaidly, founder of Ardhiyat Al Ibdaa Information Solutions; David Critchley, CEO of 4EI; Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, CEO of Marlan Space; Alex Lapir, CEO of Aliensense; Abdulhalim Jallad, co-founder of Oryx Space; and Stan Rudenko, CEO of Aspire Space Technology.


Mid East Info
29-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE Space Agency sets global standard with third CIPS Ethics Kitemark award - Middle East Business News and Information
First space agency globally to achieve the prestigious ethical procurement certification The UAE Space Agency has been awarded the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Ethics Kitemark for the third consecutive year, maintaining its distinction as the world's first space agency to receive this international honour. The CIPS Ethics Kitemark is a globally respected standard that recognises organisations and individuals committed to upholding the highest principles of ethical behaviour and integrity in procurement and supply chain management. To be awarded the Kitemark, organisations must demonstrate that staff have completed annual ethics training and that CIPS' globally recognised code of ethics has been adopted and embedded into procurement policies and procedures. This certification reflects the UAE Space Agency's strategic commitment to transparency, good governance and global best practice as it continues to grow its role as a leader in space exploration and scientific innovation. By aligning procurement activities with international standards, the Agency is ensuring that its supplier partnerships are fair, accountable and sustainable, and that public trust is maintained in every aspect of its operations. Commenting on the achievement, Sam Achampong, Regional Director, CIPS MENA, said: 'Ethical procurement is the foundation of public trust and long-term organisational success. The UAE Space Agency's commitment to ethics, transparency, and professionalism sets a powerful example for both the public sector and the global space community. We are proud to recognise the Agency's leadership with the CIPS Ethics Kitemark for a third consecutive year.' The Ethics Kitemark also contributes to building internal capability, helping organisations identify and mitigate risk, prevent unethical conduct, and improve procurement outcomes. It is increasingly seen as a mark of assurance for stakeholders, partners, and international collaborators. In addition to its focus on ethical practice, the UAE Space Agency has invested in developing the skills and competencies of its procurement team. This includes professional development pathways such as the MCIPS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) qualification, a globally recognised standard of procurement excellence. Maha Al Mansoori, Director of the Support Services Department at the UAE Space Agency, said: 'As we pursue ambitious goals in science, technology and space exploration, we recognise that integrity must remain central to how we operate. Achieving the CIPS Ethics Kitemark for the third year running is not only a testament to our team's dedication, but also a reflection of our commitment to responsible procurement that aligns with the values of the UAE Government. We are proud to lead the way for ethical sourcing in the space sector globally.'


Al Etihad
26-05-2025
- Science
- Al Etihad
UAE hosts Artemis Accords workshop with representatives from 30 countries
26 May 2025 14:49 ABU DHABI (WAM)The UAE, represented by the UAE Space Agency, recently hosted a workshop on the Artemis Accords at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This gathering brought together delegates from over 30 of the 55 signatory nations, reaffirming their commitment to promoting peaceful, transparent, and sustainable space workshop aims to reinforce the principles of peaceful and responsible space exploration and discuss future approaches to foster a shared commitment to transparency, information exchange, space heritage protection, and ensuring sustainability in outer space workshop focused on advancing the implementation of the Artemis Accords' principles, including non-interference, interoperability, orbital debris mitigation, scientific data sharing, registration of space objects, and outreach engaged in a tabletop exercise designed to simulate potential scenarios, fostering collaborative approaches to responsible space of Sports and Chairman of UAE Space Agency, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, said, 'The UAE's commitment to strengthening international cooperation and fostering responsible space exploration reflects values that lie at the heart of the Artemis Accords. Through this workshop, we aim to promote a peaceful, transparent, and sustainable space for future generations.'Al Falasi added, 'As we witness the evolution of space activities, international collaboration frameworks are becoming highly essential. The Artemis Accords stand as a beacon to ensure that as humanity reaches further into space, we do so while maintaining openness, safety, and mutual respect, so space remains a domain of peace and opportunity for all.'The Abu Dhabi workshop builds upon previous meetings held in Poland (2023) and Canada (2024) to share best practices, address emerging challenges, and strengthen the collective commitment to sustainable space in 2020 by the USA with the participation of seven countries - including the UAE - the Artemis Accords are a non-binding set of principles designed to guide civil space exploration towards more sustainable and safe operations. The Artemis Accords are consistent with relevant international treaties, including the Outer Space Treaty, the Registration Convention, and the Agreement on the Rescue and Return of Astronauts.