Industry leaders discuss the importance of strategic investments and technological advancements in advancing the UAE's space goals.
The UAE explored its space ambitions and economic opportunities at the third edition of the “Make It in the Emirates Forum,” organised by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and ADNOC Group, in Abu Dhabi. A highlight of the second day was a panel titled “Exploring the Final Frontier: The UAE’s Space Ambitions as a New Investment Magnet for Future Growth.”
The session delved into the UAE’s potential to spearhead global advancements in space technology, focusing on significant investments in satellite communications, space exploration, and data services. The sector’s robust growth was highlighted by a 40% increase in space service and application contracts in 2020, alongside extensive space-related education and training programmes. Aligning with the National Space Strategy 2030, the UAE is committed to developing a sustainable and competitive space industry, blending innovation with economic viability.
The panel featured distinguished speakers, including His Excellency Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency; H.E. Dr Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Senior Advisor, Economic Warfare at EDGE Group; Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President for the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa & Central Asia at Boeing; and Vincenzo Giorgio, VP of Institutional Marketing & Sales at Thales Group and CEO of ALTEC.
This forum underscored the UAE’s ambitions in the space sector, positioning it as a new investment hub poised for future growth and technological innovation.