Abu Dhabi is set to expand its role in the global space industry following a Dh378 million agreement aimed at advancing Earth observation satellite manufacturing. The deal, signed between Space42 and Fada, a subsidiary of defense conglomerate Edge, is expected to enhance the UAE’s satellite capabilities over the next five years.
Strategic Agreement to Enhance Space Capabilities
Under the contract, Space42, an AI-powered space technology company, will utilize data from its Foresight constellation of synthetic-aperture radar satellites to provide geospatial analytics for government bodies. This data is expected to support decision-making in various areas, including urban planning, environmental monitoring, and security.
Waleid Al Mesmari, president of space and cyber technologies at Edge, stated that the partnership aligns with Fada’s mission to develop sovereign space solutions and drive innovation in satellite technology.
Space42 was formed through the merger of geospatial analytics firm Bayanat and satellite communications company YahSat, creating one of the most valuable publicly listed space companies in the region. Fada, launched in September by Edge, is focused on space technology development.
New Satellite Manufacturing Center
The agreement was announced at the Idex defense fair in Abu Dhabi, where both companies also unveiled plans to establish an industrial-scale Earth observation satellite manufacturing center.
According to Karim Sabbagh, managing director of Space42, the facility will be capable of producing satellites for both commercial and defense applications. The joint venture will oversee the entire lifecycle of these satellites, from design and manufacturing to deployment and operational management. This includes constructing ground infrastructure to support data collection and analysis.
“The industrial flow of the facility will allow for the simultaneous development of multiple satellites, each weighing several hundred kilograms,” Sabbagh explained. He noted that an expanded facility would enable a larger number of workstations, increasing production capacity.
Boosting Employment and Industry Growth
The project is expected to generate job opportunities within the UAE’s space sector and provide training for engineers and technicians. Employees will gain experience across the satellite development lifecycle, from initial design to manufacturing, launch, and operational management.
“The UAE will benefit from the development of a new cadre of technicians and engineers with hands-on experience in space technology, which is a significant achievement,” said Sabbagh.
UAE’s Vision for the Space Industry
In recent years, the UAE has aimed to position itself as a regional center for spacecraft development. In 2021, the UAE Space Agency outlined plans to increase private sector investment in the country’s growing space industry.
At the time, Sarah Al Amiri, then Minister of State for Advanced Technology and chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency, emphasized the importance of shifting from government-led initiatives to a more diversified industry with direct contributions to the economy.
“The space sector in the Emirates has primarily relied on government funding and programs. Over the next five years, we aim to create a sector that not only impacts the economy indirectly but also contributes directly to its growth,” said Al Amiri, who now serves as the Minister of Education.
With new partnerships and investments, Abu Dhabi’s expansion in satellite manufacturing marks a significant step toward achieving the UAE’s long-term space ambitions.
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