Dubai, UAE, January 15, 2018:  His Excellency Dr Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director General for the UAE Space Agency delivered a keynote session on the importance of the country’s space programme highlighting challenges faced by his team in the region while planning for their mission to Mars. 

The talk was given at the Satellite Communications Conference, part of the 24th edition of CABSAT which opened yesterday (14 January) at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

HE Dr Al Ahbabi, said: “CABSAT is a very important exhibition and conference for us as it demonstrates new technology in this region. The event also aligns with the UAE government’s strategy to position the country as a hub for space events and exhibitions showcasing future technologies.

“It is important for us to use this event to introduce the UAE space program, tell people why we are interested in the space industry at this particular time, highlight the challenges that are facing the region, and focus on the importance of what we are doing to solve these challenges. 

“One of our crucial programs is planning the mission to Mars, and we have set a goal of doing this to inspire young people around the world, elevate the expectations of the people and try to lead and demonstrate that anything is possible. As a country that was once a leader in astrology science, it is part of our national DNA and we strive to stimulate that again through science and technology.

“We also have many challenges to consider due to projects in the space industry. Missions of this size require a large budget, a substantial amount of time, as well as a need for highly skilled and driven people. It can also be highly risky, and we will have to be prepared for potential setbacks, should they arise.”

An expansion of CABSAT’s broadcast-related satellite profile, the co-located Satellite Communications Conference is set to deliver satellite communication solutions to industries across the region, pinpointing how the growing satellite industry is supporting ambitious agendas such as that of the UAE Space Agency.

Bringing together the latest innovations and developing trends in the delivery of global content, the GVF Satellite Summit, part of the Satellite Communications Conference at CABSAT, is hosting local and international experts spearheading positive change in the satellite industry. 

CABSAT is the definitive event for broadcast, satellite and entertainment content sectors across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA). The three-day event is the leading platform for the broadcast, production, content delivery, digital media, and satellite sectors across MEASA, fostering disruptive innovation, creation, distribution, and monetisation opportunities in the regional market.

CABSAT 2018 is open from 10am - 6pm January 14 and 15, and 10am – 5pm on January 16, with free entry to business and trade visitors only.