We are proud of the announcement of the UAE’s new space mission, which will make us the first Arab country and the fourth country in the world to send a space mission to Venus and an asteroid belt.

This mission, with its unprecedented scientific goals, will enhance the UAE’s contribution to the scientific progress of humanity. The announcement also coincides with our upcoming celebration of the golden jubilee of the founding of the UAE, confirming our consistent approach to contribute to humankindunder the vision of our wise leadership.

The words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, during the announcement reflects the ambition of the UAE and its people, which does not stop at any limit.

The UAE has always aimed at investing and improving the lives of people, and today, through the continued guidance of our leadership, we are able to meet the most difficult challenges as we grow and develop. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has himself expressed that our national cadres and talents along with our academic and research institutions have achieved qualitative achievements in the space sector that are able to take on the task of the new space mission with full efficiency and readiness.

In line with the national agenda, we, at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, will continue our strategic efforts to build a strong and sustainable space sector, support and protect national interests and vital sectors, contribute to the diversification and growth of the country’s economy, enhance specialised national competencies, develop scientific and technical capabilities, and further strengthen the UAE’s role and position regionally and globally.

Quote of H.E. Yousuf Hamad AlShaibani, Director-General, MBRSC:

The announcement to send a space mission to explore the planet Venus and the asteroid belt is a source of pride for every citizen and resident in the UAE, and for every Arab who believe that we represent our civilization, cultural and scientific heritage in the best possible way.

The new mission will contribute to the development of advanced technologies and technological innovations previously unknown to mankind in various sectors, disciplines and space sciences. We are aware of our responsibility in this regard to contribute effectively to the achievement of this historical scientific leap of human knowledge.

The UAE’s achievements in the space sector are a result of a clear strategy, that is embodiment of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

The year of the fiftieth has so far witnessed great achievements for the country in the space sector. At the beginning of the year, the Hope Probe reached Mars, and in the middle of it, we announced the second batch of the UAE Astronaut Programme, including the first Arab female astronaut.