Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has announced the launch of the Middle East's first dedicated commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite manufacturing facility. The project is a partnership with Space42, the UAE's AI-powered space technology company with a global presence. Named Space42 Space Systems, the facility will localize the design, assembly, and testing of SAR satellites used for Earth Observation (EO), securing independent access to space-based intelligence for Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, this initiative marks the first time such capabilities will be developed locally for commercial use in the Middle East. The project enables the UAE to independently produce advanced EO satellites, thereby strengthening its sovereign space infrastructure. Unveiled during the "Make it in the Emirates" 2025 initiative, this project aligns with ADIO's mission to drive strategic investment into priority sectors, enhance Abu Dhabi's knowledge economy, and support its transformation into a global hub for advanced manufacturing.
Space42 Space Systems is expected to deliver sustainable economic impact and create high-skilled jobs in the advanced industries sector, including numerous roles for UAE nationals. This reflects Abu Dhabi's commitment to cultivating a highly skilled local talent base. Badr Al-Olama, Director-General of ADIO, emphasized the strategic partnership's role in bringing together global capability and national ambition, positioning Abu Dhabi for accelerated economic growth and future-ready industries.
Operated by Space42, the facility will oversee the full manufacturing lifecycle, from system design to launch readiness. The project supports Space42's goal of building sovereign EO capabilities while establishing a scalable space ecosystem from Abu Dhabi. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Banayat Smart Solutions at Space42, highlighted the importance of bringing commercial satellite manufacturing to the UAE. He noted that this move enhances sovereign capabilities in EO and strengthens Space42's position as a preferred partner for premium geospatial data.
SAR satellites are crucial for national security, environmental monitoring, and disaster response, capturing high-resolution imagery in all weather and light conditions. Until now, production of these systems has been concentrated in a few international markets. With 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.
The project will be implemented by Space42, which will operate the facility using advanced technology in systems integration, testing, and launch preparation. Beyond manufacturing, the facility will actively support Abu Dhabi's strategy to develop a sustainable pipeline of local talent through academic and industry programs, internships, and research collaborations with leading Abu Dhabi universities.
The new modular facility will manage the complete Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) lifecycle, ensuring that Abu Dhabi becomes an exporter of satellite technology. This reinforces the emirate's status as a regional hub for manufacturing, data intelligence, and sovereign technologies.