Source : WAM
The United Arab Emirates reinforced its status as a leading global centre for advanced technology and space sciences in 2025, achieving a series of strategic milestones aligned with its transition toward a knowledge-based, innovation-led economy.
Over the course of the year, the UAE expanded its orbital infrastructure and strengthened international collaborations, significantly advancing its lunar exploration and Earth observation capabilities.
A major highlight of this expansion was the launch of several key space assets, including Thuraya-4, MBZ-SAT, Al Ain Sat-1, HCT-SAT1, and the Foresight Constellation. The deployment of Etihad-SAT marked the country’s first domestically operated radar satellite, while the PHI-1 mission became the first modular satellite platform developed through the Payload Hosting Initiative in partnership with the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs.
In February, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) signed an agreement with Thales Alenia Space to develop the Lunar Gateway’s Crew and Science Airlock. This 15-year partnership ensures a lasting Emirati presence on the lunar station and sets the foundation for the first Emirati astronaut to travel to the moon.
MBRSC also partnered with Firefly Aerospace to provide the lunar lander for the Rashid 2 Rover’s mission to the moon’s far side. Further collaboration with the French National Centre for Space Studies enabled the supply of CASPEX cameras and advanced systems for Rashid 2, which has successfully completed environmental and mechanical testing in the UAE and is cleared for shipment to the United States ahead of its planned 2026 launch.
Another milestone was achieved as Space42 oversaw the integration and testing of three Synthetic Aperture Radar satellites—Foresight-3, 4, and 5—within the UAE for the first time. These satellites deliver high-resolution imagery with 25-centimetre accuracy, supporting disaster management, climate analysis, and urban development.
Regional cooperation was strengthened in December with the launch of the UAE-led “813” Arab Satellite, designed to harness space data for sustainable development across the Arab region.
To support long-term growth of the sector, the UAE introduced advanced satellite engineering programmes through the National Space Academy and EDGE Group. In parallel, the UAE Space Agency completed the Critical Design Review for the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, a seven-year exploration initiative targeting the region between Mars and Jupiter.
Together with the Hope Probe’s continued research into Mars’ atmosphere, these initiatives highlight the UAE’s rising role as a key contributor to global space exploration.
