Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Supreme Space Council, met with founders and chief executives of several UAE-based space startups as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate the development of the country’s space sector.
The meeting, which brought together key representatives from emerging space enterprises, focused on advancing public-private partnerships, promoting innovation, and strengthening the UAE’s position as a global leader in space technology and services.
Attending the session were Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, Secretary-General of the Supreme Space Council, and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency; along with leaders from startups including Rimal, Ardhiyat Al Ibdaa Information Solutions, 4EI, Marlan Space, Aliensense, Oryx Space, and Aspire Space Technology.
Sheikh Hamdan reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to building a world-class space ecosystem rooted in collaboration, advanced research, and strategic investment. He emphasized that long-term innovation, combined with a proactive regulatory environment, would be key to ensuring continued growth and competitiveness in the sector.
“The space industry is not only a frontier of scientific progress, but also a vital driver of future economies,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “We are committed to empowering national companies and fostering the right conditions for them to thrive locally and expand globally.”
Private Sector Leading Space Innovation
Participants at the meeting presented updates on their projects and investment plans, covering a diverse range of specializations including satellite imaging, AI systems, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, robotics, and reusable launch platforms. Companies also outlined plans for expanding both local and international operations.
The executives praised the UAE’s supportive legal and regulatory environment, noting that initiatives like the Space Economic Zones Programme are instrumental in enabling growth, attracting foreign investment, and encouraging cross-sector collaboration.
Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, CEO of Marlan Space, said the private sector now plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s commercial space environment. "What we are seeing in the UAE is a serious effort to align national strategy with global market opportunities. The infrastructure and leadership support are unparalleled," he said.
Other founders echoed similar sentiments, citing the country’s growing emphasis on future technologies, flexible licensing frameworks, and institutional support as major catalysts for industry growth.
Strengthening Global Position
The UAE’s space sector has gained international recognition in recent years, following the successful Emirates Mars Mission and plans for further deep space exploration. The government has also prioritized space as a strategic pillar under its broader economic diversification plans.
Sheikh Hamdan concluded the session by encouraging further dialogue between government entities and the private sector. He called for increased cooperation to accelerate research, foster talent development, and deliver high-impact outcomes that reinforce the UAE’s global leadership in space science and technology.
The meeting underscored the strategic importance of fostering an innovation-driven space economy, one where both public and private institutions share a common mission of exploration, advancement, and sustainable development.
