Since being established in 2014, the UAE Space Agency has reached a number of significant landmarks, both locally and internationally. This includes the development and implementation of a comprehensive strategic plan for the national space sector, the signing a number of Memorandums of Understanding with key international players in the space sector. In addition, the Space Agency has successfully launched and executed notable local and regional initiatives and projects.
Launch of the UAE Space Agency Strategy
In 2015, the UAE Space Agency launched a comprehensive strategy consisting of three main elements, as established by the President of the UAE. These include developing the space sector, preparing and regulating its policies, and guiding national space programs that will benefit the national economy.
Launch of the National Space Sector Policy
The UAE Space Agency launched the National Space Sector Policy in the United Arab Emirates on September 4, 2016, following approval by the Council of Ministers, headed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The policy aims to build a strong, sustainable space sector in the UAE that protects national interests and supports related vital sectors. This includes contributing to economic growth and diversification, strengthening specialized local skillsets and developing advanced scientific and technological capabilities. It also seeks to nurture a culture of innovation and to elevate the UAE’s global standing.
International cooperation agreements
The UAE Space Agency has signed a number of significant agreements with leading international space organizations, such as NASA, JAXA, Roscosmos and the Indian Space Research Organization.
The agreements represent important frameworks for mutual cooperation in research, education and development of space sector policies and regulations.
Membership of International Organization
The UAE Space Agency has obtained membership in a number of international space organizations, bodies, and agencies. Among others, this includes the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, the International Astronautical Federation and the Group on Earth Observation, which promotes open access to earth observation data. In addition, the UAE became the first Arab state to join the International Space Exploration Committee.
Federal Law on Regulating The Space Sector
In end of 2019, Federal Law on the Regulation of the Space Sector was issued, according to which the UAE Space Agency is concerned with regulating the space sector in the country. With the issuance of such Law, the Federal Decree law No. (1) of 2014 Concerning the establishment of the UAE Space Agency was canceled.
The Law deemed as the first of its kind in the Arab and Islamic level. It aims to create a legislative and regulatory environment in the UAE space sector, in harmony with other laws and regulations in the country, respects international treaties, and characterized by clarity, transparency and flexibility, protecting the interests of the State. Moreover, Compromising between economic and commercial requirements and encourage innovation on one hand, and requirements for security, safety and environmental protection on other hand.
Space Investment Promotion Plan
The Space Investment Promotion Plan aims to achieve UAE Policy directions by defining in a high level the UAE approach to facilitate more investments in space industry in the UAE, and contribute towards the attainment of UAE goals stated in the UAE Vision 2021, the UAE 2071, and the UAE Plan on the 4th Industrial Revolution. In particular to diversify and ensure sustainability of the UAE Economy; promote highly productive knowledge based economy; provide incentives for R&D and Innovation, and encourage Entrepreneurship, and SMEs role and opportunities in private sector.