Dubai, UAE – The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Culture and Tourism

– Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) to foster the development of the UAE's space exploration capabilities through collaborative efforts in education, awareness programmes, and knowledge exchange.

Reinforcing the UAE’s space sector, the MoU was signed by H.E. Saood Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi and H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, in the presence of astronaut H.E. Dr. Sultan Saif AlNeyadi at Louvre Abu Dhabi, and H.E. Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director, Strategic Affairs, DCT Abu Dhabi.

H.E. Saood Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “Honouring the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this MoU is a vital boost to the UAE’s space sector ambitions, through strategic community outreach rooted in education and collaboration. With a mandate to promote, protect and progress Abu Dhabi, we are fostering a shared appreciation for astronomy and highlighting its integral part within our vast cultural heritage.”

H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, said, “This MoU is a testament to our shared vision of harnessing space exploration as a catalyst for educational, technological, and cultural advancement. Through this partnership, we aim to inspire a new generation of explorers and scientists by highlighting the rich legacy and future possibilities of space exploration. It is a strategic step towards nurturing talent and promoting sustainable growth in the UAE’s space sector.”

A key focus of the MoU is on outreach and educational programmes designed to raise public awareness about the importance of space exploration. This will include seminars, workshops, and other events that will not only promote research within the UAE but also highlight MBRSC projects and the overarching benefits of space exploration. By engaging the community through these educational endeavours, the partnership seeks to inspire future generations and cultivate a deep-seated interest in space and related sectors.

Furthermore, the MoU places a strong emphasis on developing educational materials and programmes specifically tailored for children. These resources aim to spark curiosity and excitement about space exploration and research, laying the foundation for a future workforce passionate about advancing the UAE's space objectives.

The agreement also extends support to other government entities within the UAE that are involved in space exploration and research, demonstrating a holistic approach to national space sector development. This collaboration is a step towards identifying and expanding local collaborations that can further promote the development of the UAE space sector.

In addition to fostering local collaboration and resource sharing, the MoU aims to enhance cooperation by exchanging practical experiences and developing human resources. This initiative is crucial for the effective implementation of the MoU, ensuring that both entities benefit from shared knowledge and expertise.

Lastly, the partnership will focus on educating the public about the historical and contemporary significance of astronomy. By understanding how ancient civilisations utilised astronomy and how knowledge of the universe has evolved, the initiative seeks to enrich the cultural and scientific fabric of the UAE.

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For Media Queries:
MBRSC Media Team - mbrsc@quillmena.com

ABOUT MOHAMMED BIN RASHID SPACE CENTRE (MBSRC):

MBRSC is an advanced scientific and technological hub, responsible for making the UAE a world leader in space services and exploration.

Established in 2006, the Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) started out with five engineers, who took it upon themselves to develop their capabilities and expand their knowledge in the field of space, relying on strong will and solid determination. Since then, the centre has continued its journey to be the incubator of the “UAE National Space Programme”. The MBRSC is home to the UAE Satellite Programme, UAE Astronaut Programme, Mars 2117 Programme and Emirates Mars Mission, among others. Under its satellite programme, the Centre has built, developed, and operated several Earth observation satellites, including DubaiSat-1, DubaiSat-2 and KhalifaSat, the first satellite that was fully built by Emiratis in 2018. The Centre is currently developing the MBZ-SAT, which is expected to be launched in 2024 and will be the latest in the field of high-resolution imaging from outer space. Under the UAE Astronaut Programme, MBRSC currently has four astronauts, two of who have undertaken missions to the International Space Station, including the recently concluded longest Arab space mission in history by Sultan AlNeyadi. The Mars 2117 Programme includes the Emirates Lunar Mission, UAE Analog Programme and Space Ventures.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.