UAE space sector emerges as global hub for investment

The UAE's space sector is entering a new phase driving innovation and growth, while establishing the country as a global hub for investment, research and business opportunities.

- Nandini Sircar

Through initiatives like the UAE Space Economic Survey, the country has been actively tracking the expansion of its space economy since 2017, measuring contributions to GDP, R&D spending, workforce development, and downstream industries (applications and services that rely on space technology) that benefit from space technologies. The framework is aligned with OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) and UN standards, enhancing global comparability and investor confidence.

Recent data also shows promising trends. A 2021 survey revealed a 14.8 per cent increase in research and development spending, strong contributions from the communications sector, and a surge in scientific publications — all signs of a maturing and diversified space ecosystem.