Abu dhabi: Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, affirmed that the UAE's space sector is witnessing rapid growth, driven by sustained government support and increasing participation of the private sector, noting that the country has invested approximately AED44 billion in this vital field.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Falasi highlighted the importance of private sector involvement in the success of the country's space sector, emphasizing that many nations start with government investments but eventually empower the private sector to become active partners. He noted that the UAE is following a similar approach.
He explained that while the space sector requires ongoing government support, private participation is essential and complementary. Over the past decade, the government bore most of the responsibility, but now the private sector, including major corporations and SMEs, is taking on a greater role.
Dr. Al Falasi pointed out the strong presence of Emirati private companies at local and international events, with SME participation in the Dubai Airshow doubling compared to previous editions. The pavilion area for SMEs has expanded by more than 60 percent, which reflects the UAE's commitment to expanding national participation in the field. He added that UAE companies are expected to achieve wider global reach soon.
The minister mentioned that this year's exhibition will host 15 heads of international space agencies, making it a leading platform for advancing international cooperation. The UAE is holding bilateral and trilateral meetings with space agencies worldwide to explore collaboration opportunities and showcase the capabilities of its private space sector.
Dr. Al Falasi emphasized the importance of international cooperation for the success of the space industry. Meetings at the Airshow are paving the way for new agreements and partnerships to strengthen the UAE's national space industries.
Regarding Emirati companies, he explained that most focus on space applications using artificial intelligence and data analytics to provide services like urban planning and environmental monitoring. This represents a natural first stage for SMEs entering the space sector due to lower costs compared to satellite manufacturing. However, several companies are now venturing into areas such as space component production and satellite operations.
He stated that the UAE Space Agency's role is to offer legislative support and logistical assistance to these companies and facilitate access to intellectual property protection for their innovations.
Dr. Al Falasi concluded that the agency's strategic objective is to position the UAE among the world's top ten countries in attracting and hosting space-related companies by 2031, reinforcing its status as a global hub for space sciences and future technologies.