The IAC was attended by more than 15 public and private organisations.
The UAE concluded its participation in the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC), which was held in Sydney, Australia, from 29 September to 3 October 2025. Under the theme: ‘Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth’, IAC reviewed the latest developments in the space sector and highlighted key national projects and achievements that reflect the UAE’s leading position in this field. It also highlighted efforts to support innovation, development, and promote sustainability in space.
As part of its participation at IAC, the UAE presented more than 15 scientific papers in various fields of space. Spanning over 400 square metres, the UAE pavilion welcomed more than 5,000 visitors from international delegations, experts, students and researchers. 79 representatives from the national space sector participated in the conference. The paper, Sun Avoidance Strategies for the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, was nominated among the top 80 papers out of 1,000 research papers submitted.
Public and private entities organised over 20 sessions and workshops on the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, the Lunar Gateway, geospatial solutions, the Space Economic Zones Program, the UAE Astronaut Programme, the international team of experts specialising in space situational awareness, and startup projects. The UAE Pavilion also hosted more than 55 meetings to explore opportunities for cooperation and areas of mutual interest, with the participation of more than 200 companies and space agencies.
UAE Leads the Future of Space
His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Youth and Chair of UAE Space Agency, said: “The UAE’s participation in the IAC reflects its ambitious vision to position the space sector as a strategic pillar for achieving sustainable development, fostering national innovation, and finding future-oriented solutions to global challenges. This participation also highlights our commitment to strengthening international cooperation, knowledge transfer, and capacity building to ensure that the UAE plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration and its use to serve humanity and the planet.”
His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of UAE Space Agency, said: “The UAE Space Pavilion welcomed senior officials, decision-makers, and international delegations. We reviewed key national projects and innovative initiatives, including the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), the Space Economic Zones Program, the Space Data Center, as well as innovative initiatives aimed at developing local talent and strengthening the national space ecosystem.”
Al Qubaisi added: “This participation emphasises the pioneering role of the UAE Space Agency and its national partners in promoting the UAE as a leader in space, regionally and globally. It also reflects our commitment towards innovation and international cooperation to achieve a sustainable space future.”
His Excellency Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, said, "As we conclude our successful participation at IAC 2025 in Sydney, this gathering has once again shown how space unites humanity in pursuit of knowledge, progress, and a sustainable future. The UAE is proud to contribute to this global effort, not only through the ambitious projects led by our institutions, but also by enabling dialogue, cooperation, and the exchange of ideas with our international partners. As a nation, we believe that the future of space is built collectively, and that its benefits must extend to every society. This vision guides our endeavours, from human spaceflight and planetary exploration to scientific research and technological innovation, reinforcing our commitment to advancing space for the greater good of humanity."
Ali AlShehhi, Director of National Space Science and Technology Center, said: “Our second year of participation in the UAE Space Pavilion at the International Astronautical Congress reflects not only the steady growth of our satellite programs and facilities, but also the unique role of NSSTC in leading advanced space missions, building young national capabilities, and providing world-class facilities that support the UAE space ecosystem. At NSSTC, we remain committed to advancing research, fostering international collaboration, and nurturing young engineers to become the future leaders in the space sector.”
Waleid Al Mesmari, President of Space & Cyber Technologies at EDGE said: “By participating at IAC 2025 as part of the UAE Space Pavilion, FADA underscores the nation’s steadfast commitment to advancing space innovation, strengthening global collaboration, and enhancing sovereign space capabilities. Our presence also reflects the UAE’s ambition to play a leading role in shaping the future of space and contributing meaningfully to international dialogue.”
Ralph Koyess, Director of Business Development at Orbitworks said: “At Orbitworks, we are proud to have been part of the UAE Space Pavilion at IAC 2025. The UAE Space Agency’s ambitious initiative to unite the national space ecosystem under one platform created powerful opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and global engagement. This collective effort is not only essential for the continued growth of our space sector but also instrumental in advancing the UAE’s position as a leading force in the global space arena.”
15 Entities Participate in the UAE Space Pavilion
The pavilion witnessed wide participation from 15 entities operating in the national space sector, including seven leading space entities from the public and private sectors, reflecting the UAE’s integrated ecosystem. This included the UAE Space Agency, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, the Federal Geographic Information Center (FGIC), the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC), FADA, a subsidiary of EDGE Group, and Orbitworks. Eight technology and space startups from the Space Economic Zones Program were also represented, including Madari Space, Hex20, Innovation Floor, Stellaria, Oryx Space, 4Earth Intelligence, SpacePoint, and Innospace.
Innovative Activities at the UAE Space Pavilion
During IAC, the UAE Space Pavilion hosted innovative activities that reflected the UAE's leadership in space, providing opportunities for direct interaction with visitors and international experts. Activities included introductory sessions and live demonstrations of national projects and pioneering initiatives from participating national companies, as well as meetings with astronauts, offering youth and researchers a chance to learn about their experiences and expertise. A Youth Circle was also organised, bringing together the next generation of space enthusiasts to discuss scientific innovations and prospects for international cooperation.
Furthermore, the UAE Space Agency organised a panel discussion titled: "Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies to Drive Innovation and Economic Impact in Space", moderated by Fatima Al Shamsi, Director of Space Policy and International Relations Department at UAE Space Agency. Speakers included: His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Senior Advisor at EDGE Group, and His Excellency Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director-General of MBRSC. Dr. Elias Tsoutsanis, Chief Researcher at TII’s Propulsion and Space Research Center.
Emirati Leadership of Space Meetings
Under Al Falasi’s leadership, the UAE chaired several high-level meetings, including the International Astronautical Federation (IAF)’s annual International Meeting for Ministers and Members of Parliaments (MMOP) and two other meetings. These meetings brought together senior space agency leaders, decision-makers, and investors to discuss the space economy, foster innovation, attract investment, and develop international cooperation policies to ensure the peaceful and sustainable use of space.
In collaboration with NASA and the Australian Space Agency, the UAE Space Agency co-chaired the annual Artemis Accords signatory meeting, which included 55 member states. The meeting reviewed the outcomes of the Abu Dhabi Workshop, and discussed implementation mechanisms for the Accords’ principles. This meeting affirmed the UAE's position as a leading global partner in formulating space policies and enhancing international cooperation.
UAE Brings Together Youth and Astronauts in Australia
The UAE Space Agency Youth Council organised a meeting between the UAE Youth Council in Australia and students from the UAE University, with His Excellency Dr. Sultan Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs. 15 young students participated in the meeting, along with MBRSC’s His Excellency Salem Humaid Al Marri and His Excellency Ibrahim Al Qassim, Deputy Director-General of UAE Space Agency. The meeting discussed future skills, specialisations, studying abroad, challenges, and opportunities.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre held sessions on the UAE Astronaut Programme, Rashid Rover 2, the Lunar Gateway, advanced geospatial solutions and also showcased updates on the Etihad-SAT and MBZ-SAT satellites. The astronauts also met with visitors. The National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC) provided an overview of the Arab Satellite 813 Project, the space navigation system, and the ground centre. The Federal Geographic Information Center (FGIC) showcased its projects and services, while national companies reviewed their capabilities and future projects. Additionally, strategic meetings were held with global space agencies and the US government to enhance international cooperation.