Emiratis, expats express pride in Hazzaa's mission

Reserve Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi was also at Baikonur with Russian commander Sergey Ryzhikov and Thomas Marshburn from Nasa.

At 5.57pm local time on Wednesday, the FG rocket took off from Baikonur, powering the Soyuz spacecraft that carried a three-member crew, including Al Mansoori.

Emiratis speak

Hazza Al Mansoori's mission to space marks a historic and proud moment for the UAE. As the first Emirati in space and the first Arab to board the International Space Station, Hazza is sending a message of hope and inspiration to the people of the UAE and the wider Middle East region, while he opens the door for others who dream of pursuing similar ambitions. The UAE's foray into space reflects the country's progressive vision which is centred on striving for greatness, achieving new milestones and creating new possibilities. I wish Hazza and his accompanying team of astronauts all the success in their journey.
Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chamber

This is a proud moment for the UAE that will surely pave the way for many Emiratis to come. This historic achievement, which is the culmination of our leadership's visionary aspirations, will showcase the nation's advancements and scientific prowess on the world stage. On behalf of Dubai Science Park, I would like to wish Hazza all the best and pray for his safe return back to the UAE. I look forward to seeing the Emirati flag raised high in space.
Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Managing Director of Dubai Science Park and Chairing Member of the Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment Taskforce within the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030

As a nation, we have always strived to push boundaries and reach new heights, and this week we've turned one of our bold ambitions into reality. This is a truly historic achievement that signals the beginning of a new era of innovation, science and technology for the UAE and the region. Congratulations to Major Hazza Al Mansoori on this incredible feat, and to our visionary leadership and people of the UAE.
Ammar Al Malik, Managing Director, Dubai Internet City

I am filled with pride as an Emirati witnessing two of my brothers embody the hopes and ambitions of this nation that were instilled in us by the Founding Fathers. I am grateful for our visionary leaders who have paved the way for us to dream and aspire to become the best at everything we do. As the first foray for the Emirates to space, Hazza Al Mansouri and Sultan Al Neyadi are a beacon of advancement, representing us all on this monumental journey, and standing as a testament to an ambition pursued. On behalf of all Emiratis, we salute them and wish them a safe return back home.
Sultan Butti bin ­­Mejren, Director General of Dubai Land Department

Our Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, envisioned a far-reaching future for this nation that laid down the groundwork for us to reach for the stars. It is with humble pride that I am bearing witness to Emiratis taking the mantle left for us by our Founding Father and equipping themselves with the grace offered to us by our visionary leadership. 25 September will forever be a day to remember and engraved on our hearts as the day the UAE broke newer grounds into space, consolidating its leading regional position and among the best and most accomplished nations in the world.
Justice Dr Jamal Al Sumaiti, Director General of Dubai Judicial Institute (DJI)

This is indeed a very proud moment for not just me, but all Emiratis and Arabs alike, and we are all eagerly looking forward to seeing Hazza take off into space. Undoubtedly, this represents a massive step for our country. With our very own astronaut launched into space, what was once a dream for many Emirati youth has now become a reality.There is no doubt that this mission is set to trigger interest among the youth to pursue careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), supporting the UAE's transformation into a knowledge-based economy. By becoming the first Emirati to be in space, Hazza Al Mansoori has become a source of pride for all Emiratis and will continue to inspire future generations.
Alharith Salem Almoosa, Federal National Council Candidate No.374

There is little that can be expressed to reflect the immense sense of pride that I am instilled with as an Emirati counting down the days for one of his compatriots, his brother, to break into the outer limits of the skies into space. Once again, the UAE, represented by Dubai, finds itself at the forefront of progress to guide the Arab world to an ever-green future of knowledge and exploration at the epicentre of discovery. Hazza, the world is watching you, and our collective hearts are with you. Thank you for the grace that you will bestow upon our beloved nation. Thank you for once again putting the UAE on the map of scientific advancement. Thank you for believing in your dreams and pursuing them to become the astronaut you are today. Your name shall be engraved on the annals of the UAE's history and will forever be referenced to inspire your fellow brothers, sisters, and students to always aim for the stars.
Ghanim Al Marri, Director of Government Relation and Medical Tourism, American Hospital Dubai

This is a very big success for the entire region, not only for the UAE, as it shows the vision set by the leaders here. There are no limits to what needs to be achieved and there will be always be new challenges and achievements coming. This means a lot to the multicultural society in general as such things influence positively all the people living in the UAE. It's a success for all of as we are not only part of the community, but we all play an active role in this nation and that the secret of the success here.
Esam Al Mazroei, Vice-Chairman, Bahri & Mazroei Group

 

Expat's express joy and excitement

There are similarities between Mars and the desert, it is only natural for United Arab Emiratesto become a pioneer for space agriculture and the promotion of research into how food might be grown on Mars. United Arab Emirates vision is farsighted. Hazza Al Mansoori's mission is a great milestone for the UAE and an inspiration for 100 million young people in the Arab region. It's a proud moment not just for all Emiratis but also for all residents of the UAE.
Vijay Tirathrai, managing director, Techstars

Space travel is at the frontier of innovation and technological development. Having an Emirati representing in this space is inspiring for all generations not only for UAE residents but for the wider Middle East and North Africa. The skills, dedication and experience required to achieve such goals can be a learning lesson for the youth of today to overcome challenges and hurdles to achieve ambitious goals, not only in the world of space travel but innovation and entrepreneurship.
Philip Bahoshy, founder and CEO of Magnitt

We're looking forward to seeing the outcome of the tremendous efforts by UAE entrepreneurs in space innovation, including the Geotech Innovation Programme. 500 Startups has already made several investments in space innovation across Japan, Australia, and the United States and we're now excited to see the incredible energy created by Hazza Al Mansoori's space mission drive even greater focus and opportunity for investment in space-related startups in the UAE.
Courtney Powell, chief operating officer, 500Startups

This is a momentous occasion for the UAE and the region. Hazza Al Mansoori exemplifies the courage of the individual pursuing a dream and a country looking directly into the future. The UAE has always taken bold steps and challenged itself to be better. The UAE Astronaut Programme through the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre is a very exciting initiative for the country and helps drive the culture of innovation and technological advancement that we are truly excited about.
Sharif El Badawi, MENA-focused investment fund Partner

The UAE has consistently elevated its global position in the past, and Hazza's space mission is literally taking that elevation to a whole new level. But what makes this mission stand out is that space explorations tend to transcend national pride. Hazza is reminding us that regardless of where we are on this planet, we - as mankind - are one. I certainly am privileged to witness firsthand how this country proves yet again that historical achievements start with a vision - a vision that instills a culture of excellence.
Omid Mahboubi, founder, Mena Cloud Alliance,

We are proud of UAE, it's leadership and Hazza Al Mansouri for the upcoming space mission. This puts UAE in the league of few coveted nations who have achieved this feat. Gives me immense pleasure to see the efforts of Hazza and vision of UAE leaders coming to fruition. Wishing Hazza Al Mansouri a very successful mission.
Arshad Khan, Co-founder and CEO, Arabian Bourse

A historical moment for the Emirates. We wish great success to the first Emirati astronaut Hazza Al Mansoori on this exciting journey. It's a new page shaping the UAE space sector, and it will inspire a generation of young astronauts to follow suit.
Nadine Mezher, co-founder and chief marketing officer, Sarwa