In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant strides in space exploration, including sending an astronaut to space and reaching Mars with its Hope Probe. A key player in this advancement is Orbitworks, a company based in Abu Dhabi that is focused on creating a constellation of AI-enabled satellites. This initiative aims to establish a 10-satellite Earth observation system named Altair, which will serve various purposes, including military intelligence and environmental monitoring. The first satellite is scheduled for launch in October 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the UAE's journey towards building its own sovereign space capabilities.
Orbitworks is a joint venture between Abu Dhabi's Marlan Space and San Francisco-based Loft Orbital. The company is positioned to manufacture commercial satellites at a large scale, with a factory capable of producing up to 50 satellites annually, each weighing up to 500 kilograms. This manufacturing capability is crucial as the global space market continues to grow, with the value reaching $224 billion in 2024. The UAE's contribution to the Middle East and Africa space market is significant, accounting for approximately 40 to 45% of the estimated $18 billion market.
The UAE's strategy has shifted from relying on foreign satellite services to developing its own assets in space. This change is driven by a desire for national sovereignty and the need to compete globally, especially as other nations, such as Canada and the European Union, are also expanding their satellite networks. Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, CEO of Orbitworks and Marlan Space, emphasized the importance of having national assets in space, stating that there is a growing focus on countries developing their own capabilities.
The establishment of the National Space Fund, which amounts to 3 billion UAE dirhams ($820 million), has further supported the growth of the UAE's space sector. This fund aims to foster cooperation between international and Emirati companies, enhancing national expertise in space technology. As the UAE continues to invest in its space industry, it is also planning ambitious missions, including a journey to the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, set to launch in 2028. The shift from being a consumer of space services to a provider marks a significant evolution in the UAE's approach to space exploration and technology development.
