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Broadcast Pro
23-05-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
UAE Space Agency concludes participation at Make it in the Emirates 2025
During the forum, the Agency reviewed its key projects, namely the Space Economic Zones Programme. The UAE Space Agency concluded its participation in the Make it in the Emirates event, which was held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, from May 19 to 22. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and organised by the ADNEC Group in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and ADNOC. Participating alongside more than 500 exhibiting companies from 12 key sectors, as well as leading government officials, industry pioneers, global investors, and technology innovators, the Agency reviewed its strategic achievements and pioneering projects that highlight its vital role in advancing the national space economy and enhancing the UAEs global competitiveness in scientific research, advanced technologies, and space exploration. In addition, the Agency explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration, exchange expertise, and expand strategic partnerships with both local and international participants. His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of UAE Space Agency, said: 'This event presents a strategic opportunity to highlight the UAEs achievements in the space sector and to broaden partnerships between space and industrial entities, within a unified national framework that supports localisation, empowers Emirati talent, and accelerates the transfer of knowledge and advanced technologies.' Al Qubaisi added: 'Through our participation, we aim to highlight the Agency's efforts in transforming space innovation into a tangible development driver, supporting the nation's vision for building a sustainable economy and enhancing its global competitiveness.' The UAE Space Agency team introduced visitors to the Space Economic Zones Programme, which aims to create an attractive and integrated business environment that meets local and global needs. The team highlighted the programmes role in supporting startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enhancing the competitiveness of companies operating in the national space economy. They also showcased the major economic incentives and initiatives offered by the program. Participating with the UAE Space Agencys from the Space Economic Zones were Four Earth Intelligence Environmental Consulting LLC, QuantCube Technology, AlienSense, Third Body Dynamics, and Madari Space. The UAE Space Agency also showcased the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) with a full-scale model of the Hope Probe, highlighting how it embodies the UAE leadership's vision of building a future based on knowledge and innovation. The project was developed by local talents in collaboration with international partners and contained several components developed by Emirati engineers. Since its arrival at Mars, the Hope Probe has produced several terabytes of data, distributed via the Science Data Center, that provide a unique view of the Martian Atmosphere. The data from EMM has resulted in numerous contributions to the global scientific community, publishing nearly 40 research papers in prestigious international scientific journals. On the sidelines of the event, Al Qubaisi joined a panel discussion titled Advanced Technologies and Space Manufacturing: New Horizons for the UAE's Industrial Ecosystem. The panel discussed leveraging advanced technology and space manufacturing to reshape global supply chains and achieve quantum leaps in medicine, energy, and communications. The session also addressed challenges in infrastructure, investment, and capacity building, as well as the importance of integrating the space sector and advanced manufacturing to drive economic growth and scientific innovation. The UAE Space Agency's participation in Make it in the Emirates forum reflects its unwavering commitment to supporting the national drive to localise advanced industries, most notably space industries. Through its participation, the Agency seeks to foster cooperation with local and international partners and highlight promising investment opportunities in the space sector. This contributes to empowering the private sector, driving innovation, and expanding the space economy's contribution to the UAEs non-oil GDP.
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.
Zawya
11-04-2025
- Science
- Zawya
UAE marks first human spaceflight anniversary with continued space exploration
ABU DHABI - The UAE continues its significant contributions to space exploration, driven by its qualified national workforce and ambitious youth, as it prepares to mark the anniversary of the first human spaceflight on Saturday. The nation achieved a historic milestone in the first quarter of this year by launching six satellites: Thuraya 4, MBZ-SAT, Al Ain Sat-1, HCT-SAT 1, the second phase of Foresight Constellation, and Etihad-SAT. This year's anniversary highlights the UAE's emergence as a leading space exploration success story in the Arab and regional spheres. Its accomplishments include groundbreaking projects and the development of a skilled generation of astronauts, administrators, and technical personnel. Recent milestones include February's agreement between Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and Thales Alenia Space. Under the agreement, Thales Alenia Space will be a strategic partner in the development of the Pressure Equalisation Unit of the Gateway Lunar Space Station. The UAE's participation in this project signifies a major step in its strategy to establish a prominent global presence in space science and technology. The UAE joined the Gateway project in January 2024 alongside the US, Japan, Canada, and the European Union, and announced its intent to send the first Emirati and Arab astronaut to lunar orbit. Furthermore, the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt has achieved a significant milestone by completing the Critical Design Review (CDR) between 24th and 26th February 2025, paving the way for the assembly, integration, and testing of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Explorer. In March, MBRSC invited Emirati citizens aged 30-55 with backgrounds in engineering, technology, or healthcare and English proficiency to participate in future analog studies as part of the UAE Analog Programme. These studies aim to investigate the effects of isolation and confinement on human psychology, physiology, and team dynamics. In February, the Emirates Mars Mission's Hope Probe sent the first image of the Red Planet. Since reaching Mars orbit in February 2021, the Hope Probe has provided 12 scientific data packages, totalling 5.4 terabytes, freely shared with 200 scientific and research institutions globally.
TECHx
18-03-2025
- Business
- TECHx
TECHx Media UAE-U.S. Strengthen Ties with New Investments and AI Collaboration
UAE-U.S. Strengthen Ties with New Investments and AI Collaboration News Desk - Share The UAE and the U.S. continue to reinforce their strategic partnership, built on over five decades of collaboration across security, trade, technology, and clean energy. The official visit of H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, to the United States marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing economic cooperation, and advancing shared interests. Bilateral trade between the UAE and the U.S. (excluding oil) reached nearly $40 billion, with merchandise trade rising by 9.47% to $34.43 billion (AED 126.46 billion) in 2024, compared to $31.45 billion (AED 115.51 billion) in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. UAE investments in the U.S. totaled approximately $3.7 billion between 2018 and 2023, while U.S. investments in the UAE reached $9.5 billion during the same period. The UAE also holds over $70 billion in the U.S. energy sector through ADNOC, Masdar, and XRG, reflecting its commitment to clean energy and sustainable development. The UAE and U.S. have expanded cooperation in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. In April 2024, Microsoft announced a $1.5 billion strategic investment in G42, the UAE's leading AI company. In June, World Wide Technology, Inc. (WWT) signed an agreement with NXT Global to establish the first AI integration center in Masdar City. In February, G42 and Microsoft launched the Responsible AI Institute (RAI Institute), the first initiative of its kind in the Middle East, promoting ethical AI development across the region and the Global South. In September, both countries announced a framework for AI cooperation, focusing on AI security, cybersecurity, regulatory standards, and the development of AI-driven sustainable solutions. Space exploration remains a key area of collaboration. The UAE's Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), in partnership with the University of Colorado Boulder, builds on the success of the UAE's Hope Probe, which was launched in 2021. The UAE is also a major contributor to NASA's Lunar Gateway Programme, developing a dedicated airlock module that will support future missions, including the UAE's first astronaut journey to lunar orbit by 2030. Climate action is another pillar of UAE-U.S. relations, highlighted by the UAE-U.S. Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE), which aims to mobilize $100 billion to generate 100 gigawatts of clean energy by 2035. The UAE also co-leads the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4C) alongside the U.S., bringing together over 50 countries and 500 partners to drive advancements in sustainable agriculture. Masdar, the UAE's leading renewable energy company, has invested in 11 clean energy projects across the U.S., including the Big Beau solar and battery storage project near Los Angeles. With ongoing collaborations in economic growth, technology, clean energy, and space exploration, the UAE and the U.S. continue to strengthen their partnership, fostering innovation and long-term prosperity on a global scale.
Hi Dubai
18-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE-U.S. Partnership Strengthens with Strategic Investments and AI Cooperation
The UAE and the U.S. continue to deepen their five-decade-long partnership through expanded economic, technological, and security cooperation. The recent visit of H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, underscores ongoing efforts to enhance dialogue and mutual interests. Economic ties remain a cornerstone of the partnership, with bilateral non-oil trade nearing $40 billion. U.S. merchandise trade with the UAE rose by 9.47% to $34.43 billion in 2024. UAE investments in the U.S. totaled $3.7 billion between 2018 and 2023, while U.S. investments in the UAE reached $9.5 billion. The UAE also maintains over $70 billion in U.S. energy investments through ADNOC, Masdar, and XRG. Technology and AI cooperation are rapidly expanding. In April 2024, Microsoft invested $1.5 billion in G42, the UAE's leading AI company. The UAE and the U.S. signed a framework for AI collaboration in September, focusing on ethical AI research, cybersecurity, and sustainable AI infrastructure. Additionally, NXT Global and World Wide Technology, Inc. announced plans to establish the first AI integration center in Masdar City. Space exploration remains a key area of cooperation. The UAE's Hope Probe and Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt are partnered with the University of Colorado Boulder, while the UAE contributes an airlock module for NASA's Lunar Gateway, aiming to send an astronaut to lunar orbit by 2030. Sustainability remains central, with the UAE-U.S. PACE initiative targeting $100 billion to generate 100 gigawatts of clean energy by 2035. Masdar has invested in 11 U.S. clean energy projects, reinforcing both nations' commitment to climate action and sustainable development. News Source: Emirates News Agency
