His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Supreme Space Council, presided over the Council’s second meeting, where officials outlined a revised strategic direction for the nation’s space sector. The approach focuses on three priorities: positioning the UAE as an agile, investment-friendly hub for space activity; expanding its role as a global partner with broader market access; and strengthening national infrastructure to meet international standards.
Hamdan bin Mohammed Sets New Strategic Course for UAE Space Sector
Sheikh Hamdan reviewed findings from the Space Economic Survey, which reported a 49 percent rise in public and private spending on space over five years and a ninefold increase in R&D investment since 2019. The survey also documented a 51 percent increase in the number of Emirati women working in the sector over the past year.
During the session, Sheikh Hamdan launched the National Space Industries Program, designed to raise the competitiveness of local and international companies operating in the UAE. The program introduces economic incentives, support mechanisms for growth and sustainability, and channels for improved access to domestic and global markets. A key objective is to double the number of companies in the sector and expand UAE space exports over the next five years.
Sheikh Hamdan said the new strategy aims to lift the value added by the space economy by 60 percent and position the UAE among the world’s top ten space economies by 2031. He noted that increased national investment and stronger private-sector partnerships are essential to maintaining global competitiveness and advancing technologies tied to the country’s long-term economic plans.
The Council also reviewed outcomes from the October 2025 Space Retreat, which gathered ministers, senior officials and representatives from major national and international firms. Attendees at the meeting included Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Lieutenant General Talal Humaid Belhoul and Major General Dr. Mubarak Saeed Ghafan Al Jabri.
Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office
