UAE Space Agency Engages in Collaborative Workshop on GCC Space Cooperation
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: The UAE Space Agency, in a testament to its commitment to regional collaboration and advancement in space exploration, participated in a pivotal workshop titled “Cooperation in Space between GCC Countries.” The workshop, convened in Riyadh during the first week of May, served as a platform for fostering dialogue and synergy among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations in the realm of space exploration and technology.
Led by Ibrahim Hamza Al Qasim, Deputy Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, the delegation put forth a comprehensive proposal aimed at enhancing cooperation among GCC countries in various space-related endeavors. Among the proposals presented were initiatives to facilitate the sharing of space data, organizing hackathons, conducting educational workshops, establishing platforms for research paper uploads, promoting STEM education among university students, facilitating Gulf students’ participation in the National Space Academy, and fostering unified agreements with international entities operating in the space sector.
Throughout the workshop, the UAE Space Agency delegation provided an overview of the UAE’s ambitious space program, highlighting key projects and initiatives such as the satellite industry, the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) Hope Probe, the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), the Space Economic Zones Programme, the Emirates Lunar Mission, and the UAE Astronaut Programme.
The workshop also featured an illuminating session on space activities in GCC countries, showcasing each nation’s space programs and achievements. Discussions revolved around proposing initiatives to deepen cooperation in scientific research, technical aspects, and space exploration.
Reflecting on the workshop’s outcomes, Deputy Director-General Al Qasim emphasized the shared aspirations and objectives among GCC countries, all aimed at advancing scientific research, space exploration, and fostering comprehensive development across various sectors. Al Qasim underscored the importance of cooperation in nurturing youth skills, driving economic growth, and achieving innovative and sustainable milestones in space science and technology.
Furthermore, Al Qasim reiterated the UAE Space Agency’s unwavering commitment to sharing expertise, discussing joint projects, and bolstering development in the space and aviation sectors, particularly within the GCC region.
The workshop deliberations encompassed discussions on space strategies, legislation, entrepreneurship support, private sector engagement, access to space economic zones, and incentives for Gulf startups, highlighting the GCC countries’ collective dedication to fostering sustainable development in the national space sector.
The two-day workshop exemplified the GCC countries’ conviction in the significance of regional and international cooperation to advance the peaceful use of space, contribute to economic diversification, and propel development efforts. It also underscored the opportunities for regional expertise exchange and collaborative projects to accelerate progress in this vital sector.
