Abu Dhabi to launch region's first Earth Observation satellite manufacturing hub
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) today announced the launch of the Middle East's first dedicated commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite manufacturing facility. The project is delivered in partnership with Space42, the UAE's AI-powered space technology company with global reach. The facility, to be named Space42 Space Systems, will localise the design, assembly and testing of SAR satellites used for Earth Observation (EO), securing independent access to space-based intelligence for Abu Dhabi. This marks the first time such capabilities will be developed locally for commercial use, enabling the UAE to produce advanced EO satellites independently and strengthening its sovereign space infrastructure.
Revealed during Make it in the Emirates 2025, the project advances ADIO's mission to drive strategic investment into priority sectors, enhancing Abu Dhabi's knowledge economy and supporting its transformation into a global hub for advanced manufacturing. Space42 Space Systems will deliver sustainable economic impact and create high-skilled jobs in the advanced industries sector, including a significant number of roles for UAE Nationals, reflecting Abu Dhabi's commitment to cultivating a highly skilled local talent base. Additionally, it will directly advance the UAE's Space Strategy 2030 and the UAE's EO Space Programme, designed to build national capabilities in satellite-based remote sensing.
His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, said: 'This strategic partnership brings together global capability and national ambition. By enabling transformative companies like Space42 to scale breakthrough technologies here in Abu Dhabi, we are delivering on our mandate to accelerate the emirate's economic growth and establish future-ready industries. The transformational project demonstrates Abu Dhabi's vision in action, enabling knowledge transfer, advancing critical infrastructure and delivering sustainable economic impact.'
Operated by Space42, Space42 Space Systems will oversee the full manufacturing lifecycle, from system design to launch readiness. It advances the company's goal of building sovereign Earth Observation capabilities while anchoring a space ecosystem that can scale globally from Abu Dhabi.
Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Banayat Smart Solutions at Space42, said: 'Bringing commercial satellite manufacturing into the UAE marks a pivotal step in realising Space42's strategy. It enhances our sovereign capability in Earth Observation and strengthens our position as the preferred partner for premium geospatial data. Abu Dhabi is at the centre of this ambition, providing the environment to test, scale and export space-based capabilities that are sovereign at origin and global in application. With ADIO as a partner, we are turning strategic intent into scalable infrastructure and cultivating Emirati talent that will shape the future of this sector.'
SAR satellites, capable of capturing high resolution imagery in all weather and light conditions, are vital for national security, environmental monitoring and disaster response. Until now, production of these systems has remained largely concentrated in a handful of international markets.
Through this pioneering facility, Abu Dhabi will, for the first time assemble, integrate and test commercial SAR satellites, positioning the emirate at the forefront of the global space economy and reinforcing its status as a centre of excellence for space innovation.
The project will be implemented by Space42, established to operate the facility using best in-class technology in systems integration, advanced testing and launch preparation.
Beyond manufacturing, the facility will actively support Abu Dhabi's strategy to develop a sustainable pipeline of local talent. It will embed robust academic and industry programmes, including internships for UAE nationals, technical lectures, industry site visits and research collaborations with leading Abu Dhabi universities. These initiatives will contribute to developing a national space workforce with hands-on industrial expertise.
The new modular facility will manage the complete Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) lifecycle, from system design to launch preparation.
As space becomes an increasingly important sector of the global economy, ADIO's support ensures that Abu Dhabi becomes an exporter of satellite technology, reinforcing the emirate's status as a regional hub for manufacturing, data intelligence and sovereign technologies.
About the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO):
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) is the government vehicle responsible for accelerating Abu Dhabi's growth and enabling the emirate's economic transformation. Through comprehensive support services, ADIO enables both local and foreign investors to shape industries of the future set to transform liveability, technology, resources, and value-added services. Initiatives focused on regional tourism and retail development and public-private partnerships ensure that community well-being is at the centre of Abu Dhabi's economic transformation. With a robust network of investors, strong collaboration with key stakeholders, and a global presence, ADIO is committed to empowering those who invest with Abu Dhabi to make a lasting global impact. For more information, visit: https://www.investinabudhabi.gov.ae.
For more information, please contact:
ADIO@edelman.com
About Space42:
Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the world from space. Established in 2024 following the successful merger between Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42's global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises of two business units: Yahsat Space Services and Bayanat Smart Solutions. The Yahsat Space Services unit focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobility satellite solutions. The Bayanat Smart Solutions unit integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Space42's major shareholders include G42, Mubadala and IHC.
For more information, visit: space42.ai
LinkedIn: Space42ai
Instagram: Space42ai
X: Space42ai
Contact: Media@space42.ai
Legal Notice and Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information
This announcement may include forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and projections about future events. These statements may include, without limitation, words such as "expect", "will", "looking ahead" and any other words and terms of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company and its subsidiaries and its investments and speak only as of the date of this announcement. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions of future events and information currently available to the Company which may not prove to be accurate, and the Company does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy or fairness thereof and expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward looking statement. No representation or warranty is made that any forward-looking statement will come to pass. You are therefore cautioned not to place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither this announcement nor anything contained herein constitutes a financial promotion, or an invitation or inducement to acquire or sell securities in any jurisdiction.
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