UAE Leaders Award Space Medals to Emirati Pioneers Advancing the Nation’s Space Sector
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: In celebration of the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, awarded prestigious Space Medals to five Emiratis for their exceptional contributions to the UAE’s space sector. The ceremony, held at Zaabeel Palace, was attended by distinguished members of the UAE’s leadership, including H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
The initiative, directed by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, highlighted the nation’s commitment to establishing itself as a global leader in space exploration and innovation.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid praised the unwavering support of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, noting that the UAE’s investment in scientific resources and talent has propelled the country’s space programme to new heights. He also paid tribute to the vision of the late Founding Fathers, whose efforts laid the groundwork for the UAE’s achievements in diverse sectors, including space exploration.
Honorees and Their Contributions
First-Class Space Medals:
- Dr. Sultan bin Saif AlNeyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, was honoured for his historic six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), making him the first Arab astronaut to conduct a spacewalk and complete extensive scientific research.
- Major Hazzaa Ali Al Mansoori, pilot officer at the Ministry of Defence, received recognition as the first Emirati and Arab astronaut to reach the ISS, contributing to 16 international scientific experiments during his mission.
Second-Class Space Medals:
- Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), was commended for establishing and leading the UAE Astronaut Programme, including the “Zayed Ambition 1” mission.
- Dr. Hanan Sulaiman Al Suwaidi, Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medical Sciences, was acknowledged as the first Emirati doctor specializing in astronaut health, overseeing astronaut care during missions.
- Engineer Adnan Al-Rais, Assistant Director General of Space Operations and Exploration at MBRSC, was celebrated for his role in managing the UAE’s astronaut programme, including his leadership in the “Zayed Ambition 2” mission.
The honorees expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership, affirming their commitment to furthering the country’s space ambitions.
Legacy of Excellence and Future Aspirations
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasized that these recognitions not only celebrate past achievements but also inspire future generations to contribute to the UAE’s legacy of scientific excellence. He reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to fostering a sustainable space sector that serves as a beacon of innovation and progress.
Under Federal Law Decree No. (23) on Medals and Decorations, the First-Class Space Medal honours astronauts advancing scientific research, while the Second-Class Space Medal recognizes professionals contributing significantly to astronaut training and space exploration.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photograph of the honorees with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, symbolizing the UAE’s continued journey into space exploration.
