Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are ramping up their efforts to develop their domestic space industries and capitalize on emerging technologies. Saudi Arabia recently transformed its Saudi Space Commission into the Saudi Space Agency (SSA), demonstrating the country’s commitment to the space sector. In May, Saudi Arabia successfully launched its first space mission to the International Space Station (ISS), sponsored by the government. This milestone included the Arab world’s first female Arab astronaut.

The UAE has also made significant progress in space activities. With its National Space Strategy 2030, the UAE has established space laws and regulations, launched its own Hope Probe to Mars, and opened four space research and development centers. The UAE aims to leverage space investments for technical capabilities and expertise in aerospace engineering, satellite manufacturing, and advanced research and development, which will support sectors such as defense, tourism, and technology.

Gulf countries are taking advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, including blockchain, AI, 3D printing, and nanotechnology, to accelerate their space exploration efforts. These technologies have reduced satellite launch costs and increased the capabilities of smaller satellites. This presents a significant economic opportunity for countries like Saudi Arabia, aligning with their long-term strategies to diversify their economies.

To further promote the growth of their space industries, Gulf countries are also working on cross-sector diversification. For example, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund launched Riyadh Air, a low-cost airline, which aims to compete with other regional carriers. In defense, Saudi Arabian Military Industries has secured contracts worth over $10 billion to localize defense spending. These ventures highlight the potential synergies between aerospace and defense industries.

Additionally, Gulf countries are focused on developing their satellite imaging capabilities to improve communication and monitoring systems. Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman have all launched satellites, while Qatar’s Es’hailSat and the UAE have invested in advanced imaging satellites. Furthermore, the UAE is pursuing space exploration with plans to study the solar system’s asteroid belt and future partnerships with China for space utilization and astronaut training.

As the ISS approaches retirement, companies like Axiom Space and Blue Origin are planning to build commercial space stations in low Earth orbit. Gulf countries see this as an opportunity to capitalize on commercial space travel and communications. China, which is developing its own space station, has expressed interest in partnering with Saudi Arabia and the UAE in various space-related areas.

Gulf countries are strategically investing in their space industries to diversify their economies, gain technical capabilities, and create new opportunities for commercialization. The combination of emerging technologies, cross-sector diversification, and global partnerships positions these countries for growth in the evolving space sector.

Sources:

[1] Source article: “Gulf countries step up domestic space industry initiatives” by Oxford Business Group

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