14 August 2017, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:  The new formation of the UAE Space Agency Board of Directors has met for the first time, chaired by H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education. Board members include H.E. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Khalid Al Buainain, Badr Al Olama, Sultan Muhair Al Ketbi, Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, Mohammed Saif Al Maqbali, Massaoud Mohammed Sharif, and Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf.

 

The new members praised the diligent efforts and successes of the previous Board over the past three years, during its period under the chairmanship of H.E. Dr. Khalifa Al Romaithi. In particular, the Board highlighted the establishment of the Space Agency and its subsequent international recognition within the global space sector, including appreciation from leading international organizations and bodies. In addition, members noted the legislative and regulatory frameworks covering the national space sector, the projects and initiatives to develop advanced technical capacities, as well as the launch of various space research centers.

 

The Board reviewed the Agency’s forthcoming projects and programs aimed at organizing the sector, with a focus on educational activities. Board members also discussed the latest developments related to the National Space Law and the National Space Strategy, which are currently being finalized. Finally, departmental reports were reviewed, providing an overview of the results and achievements of initiatives implemented and future proposals, as well as summaries of administrative mechanisms and hierarchies.

 

H.E. Dr. Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi stated that the UAE’s successes in developing an advanced national space sector came as the result of comprehensive strategic planning and developmental programming, in line with the vision of the nation’s founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He also praised the steadfast support from H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme

Commander of the Armed Forces. 

 

H.E. Dr. Al Falasi noted that, in accordance with the strategic plan, the Space Agency will continue to build on the achievements made throughout the national space sector in recent years. He also said that the Agency is uniquely positioned to positively reflect the UAE’s international image by highlighting the global successes of ambitious Emirati youths in the field of space. 

 

The Space Agency Chairman also highlighted that Emiratis with advanced skillsets will play a major role in building on the space sector’s existing achievements and guaranteeing its continued progression. He stated that the human factor is crucial to ensuring that the national space program meets its objectives and launches new projects that will secure the UAE’s leading position in the international space sector. In this regard, H.E. Dr. Al Falasi stressed the government’s focus on capacity building and development within the sector.