Latest news with #EmiratesMarsMission
Al Etihad
19-05-2025
- Science
- Al Etihad
UAE Space Agency invests in local startups and space missions – from Mars to Asteroid Belt
20 May 2025 00:26 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI) Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines of the Make it in the Emirates Forum (MITE) 2025, Dr. Noora Alsaeed, research scientist at the UAE Space Agency, and currently a science project investigator for the Emirates Mars Mission and a co-investigator on the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, highlighted the growing role of Emirati-led innovation and talent development across the national space ecosystem. "We have a booth here at Make it in the Emirates to showcase the projects supported through the space economic zones," she explained."They are all UAE-based startups with the vision to apply their technologies to space; whether they are using space data, offering services for the space sector, or building something destined to go into orbit."These startups, as Dr. Alsaeed mentioned, are being provided with a platform by the Space Agency, which connects them to local and international events and projects."We support them, but we also have our own flagship missions like the Emirates Mars Mission, which continues to be a key focus."Dr. Alsaeed elaborated on the ambitious Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, set for launch in 2028 with a seven-year exploration phase that will study seven main belt asteroids."It is a very complex mission. We passed our Critical Design Review (CDR) in February. Alhamdulillah, we are on track for the 2028 launch," Dr. she added."It is an opportunity to train Emiratis to lead in space: from spacecraft systems engineering and manufacturing to science leadership and mission operations."Dr. Alsaeed noted that these missions are essential to national capacity building."What is beautiful about these missions is that they train Emiratis to lead interplanetary projects; something that is far more complex than satellite operations."She cited some of the ongoing Earth-orbiting missions like the Satellite 813; a hyperspectral mission being constructed by the UAE in partnership with 7 Arab countries, with an Emirati as the principal investigator at UAE-based National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC) in Al Ain."It is exciting to see such regional collaboration, and many of the partners involved are here at the forum showcasing their work."She added: "Capability development is one of our primary goals. We have a dedicated unit at the Space Agency that focuses on building Emirati talent and supporting UAE-based companies. "The space sector is multidisciplinary; when you develop one person in this field, you're also developing skills in AI, mechanical engineering, computer science, satellite imagery and more."Looking to the future, Dr. Alsaeed added that the next major step for enhancing national expertise will be the upcoming Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt."This is designed to be a mission where Emiratis lead; whether it is engineers, scientists, or UAE-based companies like TII (Technology Innovation Institute), which is developing the lander," she said. "The aim is to build local capability and integrate Emiratis into all aspects of space exploration." Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage
Al Etihad
17-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE-US: A strategic partnership built on five decades of mutual cooperation, shared interests
17 May 2025 15:01 ABU DHABI (WAM)His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, welcomed US President Donald J. Trump, during his state visit to the UAE on May 15-16, historic visit highlighted the enduring friendship, shared values, and common interests that sustain the longstanding strategic UAE-US leaders renewed their resolve to deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation across all sectors for the present and future benefit of both countries. Their discussions focused on advanced technology, investment, commerce, energy, science, space and industry. AI partnership The leaders celebrated the ambitious bilateral cooperation on artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology, hailing the UAE's landmark plans to invest $1.4 trillion in the US over the next ten years, through the UAE's investment institutions. They expressed confidence that this partnership will accelerate growth and facilitate scientific governments of the UAE and the US have agreed to establish the US-UAE AI Acceleration Partnership framework to further bolster cooperation around critical technologies, and ensure the protection of the technologies based on a set of joint commitments. The US will facilitate deeper technology cooperation with the UAE, including the launch of a one-gigawatt AI data centre, which is part of a planned five-gigawatt UAE-US artificial intelligence technology cluster in Abu Dhabi to support regional computation demand while meeting robust US security standards and other efforts to responsibly deploy AI infrastructure, both in the UAE and globally. Middle East Both sides emphasised their steadfast commitment to a peaceful, cooperative and thriving Middle East. They underscored the importance of tolerance and peaceful coexistence between nations and peoples. The leaders stressed the vital role of education, community engagement, and strong family values in instilling these principles and fostering open resilient sides commended the depth of the UAE–US security and defense partnership, and reiterated their intention to further strengthen and expand bilateral defense cooperation. The meeting also reaffirmed the UAE's unequivocal stance against terrorism and extremism in all forms, and underscored the shared commitment to working with international partners to promote international peace and security. Space industry The two leaders also celebrated the growing UAE-US- partnership in space, including the successful cooperation on the Emirates Mars Mission, human spaceflight, and the Emirates Asteroid Belt Mission. The leaders emphasised the importance of advancing scientific discovery, and expanding bilateral collaboration on deep space and lunar Trump attended a special exhibition on space exploration, where Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, briefed President Trump on his journey to space, and highlighted the growing cooperation between the UAE and the US in this field. The two leaders also discussed specific ways to deepen research cooperation across academic, private, and government sectors in both countries, including roadmaps for technology access aimed at advancing scientific progress and unlocking economic growth. CybersecurityDuring the visit, the UAE and the US also agreed to continue to collaborate closely to support the Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI), a White House-led effort aimed at strengthening global resilience against ransomware threats. This partnership includes joint contributions to the Crystal Ball platform, which facilitates real-time cyber threat intelligence sharing among member Trump highlighted the US Administration's efforts to reduce regulatory barriers, foster a more efficient investment environment, and expedite permitting processes. The US is developing a fast-track process for the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) reviews. Energy President Trump joined His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, for a business roundtable with leading CEOs from both participants highlighted the UAE's role as the US's largest trading partner in the Middle East, with bilateral trade reaching $34.4 billion in US maintains a substantial trade surplus with the UAE—its third largest globally—and the UAE is on track to becoming the leading source of foreign direct investment into the US. The meeting welcomed a series of new investments, including ADNOC's $60 billion in expanded energy partnerships with major US firms, and Emirates Global Aluminum's $4 billion smelter in also covered cooperation in technology, energy, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and leaders from both countries also welcomed initiating negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement. Bilateral relations Both countries shared their commitments towards strengthening strategic cooperation and partnership across the energy sector. The UAE's nuclear power programme, the first in the Gulf, is the global benchmark for safe and secure deployment of civilian nuclear energy in alignment with US operational excellence. Furtherin the strategic partnership, the two sides discussed joint R&D and capacity-building opportunities in next-generation nuclear technologies for peaceful two countries also highlighted the strategic collaboration, between the UAE's International Resources Holding (IRH) and the US International Development Finance Corporation, to advance responsible mining initiatives. The partnership will co-invest in critical minerals projects to secure resilient supply chains for materials that are essential to clean energy and advanced the two leaders hailed the significant progress that has already been achieved in advancing regional prosperity and strategic connectivity. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the India-Israel-United Arab Emirates-United States (I2U2) Group will leverage new infrastructure, connectivity, and emerging partnerships to deliver the multilateral level, the two leaders discussed the US' priorities as the incoming President of the Group of the Twenty (G20) in 2026. Recognising the UAE's recurrent and active participation in the G20, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and President Trump reiterated both countries' commitment to constructive and active cooperation under the US Presidency of the Group next UAE emphasised the importance of international cooperation in addressing global water challenges, and highlighted its commitment to advancing water security and innovation. In this regard, the UAE will co-host the 2026 UN Water Conference alongside Senegal, positioning it as a key platform to drive global action and partnerships in President Trump visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, to explore its cultural message promoting coexistence and tolerance, inspired by the values of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Trump also toured the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, where he underscored the significance of the Abraham Accords as a cornerstone for advancing regional peace, mutual respect, and interfaith line with the expanding ties between the two countries, the leaders welcomed the announcement of the new UAE consulate in Miami, the conclusion of his visit, President Donald J. Trump expressed his sincere appreciation to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the people of the UAE for their warm welcome and generous hospitality. He commended the UAE's leadership, and reaffirmed the strength of the enduring partnership between the two nations and peoples. Fact Sheet: New Bilateral Agreements and Commercial Deals announced during President Trump's visit to the UAE Consistent with their commitment to safeguarding national security systems, critical infrastructure, and advanced technologies, both countries committed to deepening cooperation to strengthen their resilience against evolving cyber and technological the UAE government's Cybersecurity Council announced:· In partnership with Google Cloud, the establishment of a cybersecurity center of excellence, aimed at pioneering world-class cybersecurity research and training while advancing the development and delivery of cloud services.· In partnership with Lockheed Martin, enabled through the Tawazun Economic Programme, and overseen by the Tawazun Council, the establishment of a cybersecurity center of excellence focused on advanced research, training, and industry collaboration to strengthen national cyber capabilities and foster innovation and talent development. During the visit, the UAE and the US also agreed to continue to collaborate closely to support the Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI), a White House-led effort aimed at strengthening global resilience against ransomware threats. This partnership includes joint contributions to the Crystal Ball platform, which facilitates real-time cyber threat intelligence sharing among member states. These efforts are further reinforced by ongoing collaborations between the UAE Cyber Security Council and key US entities such as the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, the US-UAE Business Council and the US Chamber of Commerce, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing cybersecurity, innovation, and economic security. Trump's Middle East visit Continue full coverage Furthermore, the UAE and the US outlined their shared vision for a prosperous and sustainable future through a series of new commercial agreements and partnerships, reflecting a strategic alignment poised to unlock new opportunities and drive global innovation Technology and Innovation · Next-Gen Engineering Center in Abu Dhabi: A partnership between Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Qualcomm to establish a Global Engineering Center in Abu Dhabi in order to drive innovation, and accelerate the development of advanced technologies, including AI, industrial IoT, and data centers.· Strategic Collaboration to Accelerate Edge AI Innovation in the UAE between Qualcomm and e&: A collaboration to accelerate the development and deployment of edge AI 5G industrial gateways to enhance efficiency, reliability, and performance in key industry verticals, help roll out innovative edge AI devices, including AI PCs, XR, and wearables integrating the latest AI models. The joint effort will drive innovation in smart mobility solutions to improve safety and user experiences, ensuring the UAE's transport infrastructure is future-ready. · Amazon Web Services, e&, and the UAE Cybersecurity Council unveiled a launchpad for public sector and regulated industries cloud adoption that is expected to contribute $181 billion to the UAE's digital economy by 2033. The partnership includes the establishment of the new UAE Cybersecurity Technology Innovation Bureau. Energy· Comprehensive Strategic Energy Partnership (CSEP): Both sides agreed to launch a framework between ADNOC and the US Department of Energy to underscore the shared commitment of both countries to strengthen strategic cooperation across the energy sector, drive sustainable economic growth, enhance energy security, and promote innovation and technological leadership in the global energy landscape. The CSEP will serve as a platform for both countries to align on strategic energy priorities, facilitate joint investments, and advance collaboration across a wide range of areas.· Upper Zakum Production Capacity Expansion: A partnership between ADNOC, ExxonMobil, and JODCO to increase oil production capacity of Abu Dhabi's Upper Zakum offshore field.· Shah Sour Gas Strategic Collaboration Agreement: An agreement between ADNOC and Occidental Petroleum to explore expanding production capacity at the Shah Sour Gas field.· Unconventional Concession for Onshore Block: ADNOC and EOG Resources entered into an agreement for unconventional oil exploration concession for Unconventional Onshore Block 3 in Abu Dhabi.· Cooperation between XRG and Oxy on South Texas DAC Project: XRJ and OXY will evaluate a significant investment in 1PointFive's South Texas Direct Air Capture project, which aims to capture 500,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually using advanced, commercial-scale technology. Advanced Manufacturing and Infrastructure · Aluminium Smelter in Oklahoma: Emirates Global Aluminium and the Government of Oklahoma announced plans to develop an aluminum smelter – the first new aluminium smelter in the US in 40 years, expected to create up to 1,000 jobs and bolster US manufacturing capacity.· Gallium Project: A collaboration between Emirates Global Aluminium, Tawazun Council, and Raytheon Emirates to explore opportunities in advanced materials production. Aviation · Etihad and Boeing announced the purchase of up to 28 aircraft. Healthcare and Life Sciences · M42 and Oracle Health agreed to create a unified, longitudinal patient record, integrating genomics that is accessible through Oracle's AI-powered Health Data Intelligence platform, to advance precision medicine initiatives, prioritise prevention and support data-driven, personalised healthcare across the UAE. · Strategic partnership between G42, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, and Oracle to innovate new healthcare delivery models leveraging AI, to deliver more effective, scalable, and affordable care. This model of care will focus on prevention, longevity, and healthy living, and redesign the delivery of care across populations and borders.
Hi Dubai
16-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Deepens US Ties with $1.4 Trillion Investment Focused on Tech Growth
The UAE is ramping up its long-standing partnership with the United States through a $1.4 trillion investment aimed at advancing cooperation in emerging technologies, UAE Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Technology Omran Sharaf said in an interview with CNN today. Sharaf described the visit of US President Donald Trump to the UAE as 'very important and historical,' highlighting how decades of bilateral collaboration are now evolving into deeper ties in science and innovation. 'We couldn't have done it without working hand in hand,' he said, referencing the US's key role in the Emirates Mars Mission. The massive investment underscores growing joint efforts in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and energy technologies. According to Sharaf, this financial commitment is 'a reflection of how strong the relationship has become,' marking a significant shift toward future-focused sectors. He emphasized the mutual benefits of the partnership, noting that the investment will generate jobs and draw top talent in both countries. 'We always look at these opportunities as a win-win situation,' he said. Sharaf also called for collaborative governance frameworks to ensure responsible use of emerging technologies. 'It is crucial that countries work closely... to come up with governance systems for new technologies that, if misused, could have serious consequences,' he said. The latest developments reaffirm the strategic nature of the US–UAE alliance and signal both nations' commitment to shaping the global tech landscape together. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hi Dubai
01-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Showcases Space Innovation at Expo 2025 Osaka with Space42 at the Helm
The UAE is turning heads at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai with its 'Explorers of Space' platform, a centerpiece of the country's pavilion that captures its bold journey from Earth to orbit. From Mars missions to lunar landings, the exhibit reflects the nation's growing influence in global space exploration. Spearheading the platform is Space42, the UAE's leading space technology company and official partner of the Space Explorers zone. The firm has curated an immersive experience highlighting past milestones like the Emirates Mars Mission and the Rashid Rover, as well as future asteroid missions and space-tech innovations. Space42's involvement underscores its broader mission to merge satellite communications, AI, and geospatial analytics into practical solutions. 'Our support reflects the UAE's evolution from a rich cultural legacy to a frontier of discovery,' said Sulaiman Al Ali, Chief Commercial Officer at Space42. The pavilion's theme, 'From Earth to Ether,' mirrors this vision, emphasizing how space technologies can deliver real-world benefits. Space42 currently operates a satellite network spanning over 150 countries, supporting everything from disaster response to next-gen mobility through its flagship Thuraya-4 and Foresight constellation. A standout feature of the exhibit is a handcrafted rocket sculpture made from palm fronds (khoos), woven by Emirati artisans. Blending tradition with innovation, the piece symbolizes the country's ambition to reach space while staying rooted in its heritage. With Expo 2025 offering a global platform, Space42 aims to deepen international partnerships—particularly with Japan—while advancing its mission to make space solutions more accessible, relevant, and impactful on Earth. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Time of India
23-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
The business of space- Why Indian spacetech startups are betting big on Dubai
India's private space sector is no longer just aiming for the stars—it's moving fast, fueled by ambitious startups like Skyroot, Pixxel, and Agnikul that are reshaping how the country approaches space innovation. As these companies eye global markets, advanced infrastructure, and significant scale, the key question is no longer if they should expand internationally—but where to establish their next stronghold. Traditional tech hubs may still command attention, but a new force is emerging in the spacetech landscape—Dubai, steadily positioning itself as the next global launchpad. The Emirate is emerging as a serious player in space business, with a growing ecosystem that's beginning to attract attention from Indian spacetech founders seeking the next big leap. Dubai presents a potential avenue for global collaboration and accelerated growth that warrants a closer look. Why Global investors are eyeing Economic Zones for space commerce? Dubai's vision to become a global leader in space is anchored in its National Space Strategy 2030, which outlines goals in scientific research, technology advancement, and a thriving commercial space sector. A key part of this is the Space Economic Zone Program by the UAE Space Agency, aimed at attracting and supporting foreign startups and SMEs. These zones offer 100% foreign ownership, streamlined business setup, access to world-class infrastructure, dedicated workspaces, and incubation and acceleration services, making them highly appealing to global space-tech companies. The strategy positions Dubai as a hub for space commerce by tapping into international talent and capital. The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), founded in 2006, plays a central role in this vision. It led the Emirates Mars Mission (Hope Probe), the Arab world's first interplanetary mission, and oversees the satellite initiatives and Astronaut Program, highlighting the nation's growing capabilities in space. How is Dubai positioning itself in the spacetech market? Dubai is strategically positioning itself as a global hub in the space economy through targeted initiatives. While direct mentions of hosting events like the International Astronautical Congress or World Space Forum are limited, Dubai's broader commitment to international engagement signals active participation in such forums to foster global collaboration. A critical pillar of this strategy is Dubai's adaptive regulatory environment. As Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, explained, 'Innovation requires an adaptive framework, such as regulatory labs and sandbox systems, to foster technological progress while ensuring safety. These systems and initiatives bring policymakers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders together to collaborate and refine solutions,' stressing the importance of fostering ecosystems that accelerate innovation while maintaining safety and scalability. The Emirate also emphasises the importance of public-private partnerships, creating a business-friendly environment that encourages global players, including potential collaborations with companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, to explore opportunities within the UAE's expanding space ecosystem. Companies like ST Advanced Composites provide key strategic advantages to Dubai and UAE-based space businesses through their specialised expertise in crucial lightweight and durable composite materials, enabling enhanced mission performance. Dr. Devendran Thirunavukarasu, Founder, ST Advanced Composites, highlights:'The utilisation of lightweight composite materials is revolutionising satellite launches by significantly reducing overall weight. This directly translates to improved launch efficiency, allowing for greater payload capacity and decreased fuel consumption – ultimately making more ambitious space missions economically feasible.' Government-backed initiatives such as Space Economic Zones and the National Space Fund reinforce Dubai's ambition, offering incentives, streamlined processes, and financial support to attract global space-tech ventures and foster cross-border innovation. What's in it for Indian spacetech startups? For Indian space-tech startups exploring global expansion, Dubai offers a strategic gateway. Initiatives like the National Space Fund provide financial support to both Emirati and international companies, while world-class accelerators—potentially within Dubai Internet City and other free zones—offer mentorship, networking, and funding access. With 100% foreign ownership and streamlined setup processes in many zones, Dubai creates a highly business-friendly environment. Thirunavukarasu mentioned, 'Collaborating with Dubai-based entities offers a range of exciting opportunities for expanding technologies into new frontiers like lunar or Mars missions. The strategic geographic location acts as a crucial hub for international space collaboration, complemented by state-of-the-art infrastructure like the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC)." He further added, "The government's strong commitment to space exploration, evidenced by the UAE Space Strategy 2030 and the Mars 2117 Vision, provides a robust framework for partnerships. This governmental backing, coupled with access to potential funding and policy support, can significantly accelerate the deployment and innovation of technologies for deep space exploration. Collaborations with universities and research institutions also open avenues for joint R&D in critical areas like robotics and sustainable life-support systems, while the unique desert environment offers a valuable testing ground for technologies intended for harsh extraterrestrial conditions." This supportive environment is further emphasised by Anna Hazlett, CEO at AzurX, a firm dedicated to attracting space tech companies to the UAE, who stated, "AzurX has actively worked to attract and support space and satellite technology companies, along with research and development (R&D), to the UAE since 2019. A flourishing UAE space sector, encompassing a vibrant startup and venture ecosystem, offers numerous strategic, economic, and diplomatic advantages... enabling the expansion of the private space ecosystem in the UAE." Its geographic and cultural proximity to India makes the transition smoother, while its advanced infrastructure serves as an ideal base for testing, mission control, and manufacturing. The UAE's active push for collaborations in satellite technology and knowledge-sharing, along with success stories of Indian ventures already operating in the region, cements Dubai's position as a promising launchpad for India's spacetech ambitions. What's next – Future prospects and bilateral growth The UAE's space economy, guided by its National Space Strategy 2030, is rapidly expanding, creating timely opportunities for Indian startups. India and the UAE already share a solid foundation in space collaboration, with ISRO and the UAE Space Agency partnering on satellite launches and space exploration. There's growing scope for joint ventures in Earth observation, navigation, and interplanetary missions. For Indian startups, an early presence in Dubai offers a first-mover edge, access to futuristic infrastructure, and entry into global markets. This is particularly true for companies specialising in advanced materials, a critical area for the future of space technology. Thirunavukarasu highlights the transformative role of their materials, stating that,"Advanced composites, such as carbon fibre reinforced polymers, are significantly lighter than traditional metals. This weight-saving translates into reduced launch costs, allowing for more payload capacity and improving the efficiency of spacecraft design. The success of companies like SatSure, Dhruva Space, and ST Advanced Composites in India—and their growing presence in the UAE—shows the real potential of these technologies in new markets. As Dubai cements its position in the global space economy, Indian space-tech startups with expertise in areas like advanced composites have a clear path to scale, collaborate, and lead on the international stage.
