Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, has announced that in 2024, Emirati astronauts Mohammed Al Mulla and Nora Al Matrooshi will embark on pioneering space missions. Sheikh Hamdan provided an update on the UAE’s ambitious space exploration plans following a meeting of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre. He stated that the UAE aims to become a significant contributor to the future of space exploration and elevate its global standing in the space industry through exceptional projects that will benefit humanity. Despite Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi’s recent return from the International Space Station, the UAE is already moving forward with its space program.

Mr. Al Mulla, a former Dubai Police helicopter pilot, and Ms. Al Matrooshi, an engineer and the first Emirati female astronaut, were selected to join the UAE corps in 2021 and subsequently underwent training with Nasa in Houston, Texas.

“In 2024, Mohammed Al Mulla and Nora Al Matrooshi will embark on groundbreaking space missions,” Sheikh Hamdan announced on his X account.

Project Updates
“Next year, we will launch MBZ-Sat, the most advanced satellite in the Arab world to date,” Sheikh Hamdan stated.

“The Rashid Rover 2 project will continue as we remain determined to explore the moon. Our journey has only just begun, and the best is yet to come.”

During the meeting of the space center’s board, Sheikh Hamdan received a briefing on its upcoming projects.

“In the next phase of our journey, we are poised to undertake exceptional projects that will pave the way for new frontiers in space exploration,” Sheikh Hamdan declared.

The United Arab Emirates’ rapidly advancing space sector is poised to become a significant global contributor in the field, leveraging the rich expertise, knowledge, and strategic partnerships acquired through unique initiatives and missions.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre plays a pivotal role in the UAE’s space program, and we are dedicated to enhancing the nation’s standing as a key player in shaping the future of space exploration, in accordance with the leadership’s vision.

Our objective is to uncover new data and acquire knowledge and insights that will not only benefit our nation but also the region and the global community.

The UAE has established high standards for space excellence and will continue to launch ambitious missions that align with our leadership’s vision to advance our nation’s role as an innovator and trailblazer in the region and the world.

During the meeting, the satellite Payload Hosting Initiative was also discussed. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the space centre and the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, aims to promote space science and technology in developing countries.

“We will continue to bolster the UAE’s role in space exploration. We will keep pace with the evolving space scene by strategically enhancing our capabilities and preparing for the future,” said Hamad Al Mansoori, chairman of the space centre.

“At MBRSC, we do not only aim to nurture UAE innovation and talent, but also establish a global platform for sharing knowledge, expertise and data to build the future of space.”