Antalya:The UAE Space Pavilion concluded its participation at the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) in Antalya, Türkiye. The event highlighted the UAE's transition from individual space missions to an integrated space economy, emphasizing partnerships with global governments, space agencies, and industries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE delegation, led by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, showcased how national space capabilities contribute to economic growth and resilience. The pavilion featured 14 government entities, research institutions, and companies, offering a platform to display national missions, technologies, and commercial capabilities.
Dr. Al Falasi emphasized the UAE's commitment to space as a national priority, highlighting the importance of partnerships in shaping the future of space exploration. The UAE's discussions with international leaders aimed to expand the space economy and create opportunities for Emirati talent.
Eng. Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, noted the Congress facilitated joint missions and technology development. He stressed the importance of connecting research and missions directly with industry to bolster the UAE's space sector.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) further strengthened international partnerships, including with UNOOSA and CNES, and announced the opening of applications for PHI-3 under the Payload Hosting Initiative. The Congress also saw UAE-based Falcon Robotics sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Japanese companies Dymon and JAOPS, focusing on lunar exploration technologies.
Throughout the Congress, the UAE engaged in discussions on space science, exploration, technology, and policy. Dr. Al Falasi accepted the IAF World Space Award on behalf of the International Charter 'Space and Major Disasters,' recognizing its contribution to disaster response.
The UAE's presence at IAC 2026 focused on building a competitive space economy and leveraging space capabilities for national resilience. The delegation addressed entrepreneurship and investment, emphasizing the role of predictable regulation in fostering technological development.
The UAE Space Pavilion attracted over 5,000 visitors, presenting national capabilities in scientific missions, satellite development, and Earth observation. Emirati engineers and researchers delivered presentations, showcasing expertise from national programs like the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt.
Following the Congress, the UAE Space entities will work on implementing the agreements and priorities established in Antalya, supporting the National Space Strategy 2031 and its goal of positioning the UAE among the top 10 space economies globally.