UAE space sector spending rises 27.1% to AED 5.52 billion in 2025

Dubai: Engineer Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, has revealed the results of the 2025 Space Economic Survey, confirming that the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for the space economy. This progress is being driven by increased spending and investment, a growing role for the private sector, and greater participation by national talent in the industry. Speaking during a workshop organised by the UAE Space Agency in cooperation with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, Al Qubaisi said total spending in the space sector reached AED 5.52 billion, representing growth of 27.1% compared with the previous survey period. He noted that this reflects the continued expansion of space-related activities and investments across the country. He explained that the commercial sector accounted for 48% of total space spending, equivalent to AED 2.64 billion, highlighting the increasing contribution of private companies to the national space ecosystem and its competitiveness. Al Qubaisi also pointed to significant progress in Emiratisation, with the number of Emiratis employed in the sector rising by 27.9% to 1,495. Of these, 1,333 are young men and women aged between 15 and 35, underscoring the success of national efforts to attract and empower young talent in advanced space fields. He added that Emirati women continue to strengthen their presence in the sector, accounting for 33.5% of the total workforce. The number of Emirati women employed in the industry increased by 83.9%, reflecting the success of national initiatives aimed at supporting women’s participation in science, technology and space. Al Qubaisi affirmed that the UAE space sector is progressing rapidly towards achieving its 2031 goals in line with the country’s strategic direction. He said efforts remain focused on building a more competitive sector, increasing its economic contribution, and attracting further investment and high-quality partnerships, thereby reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in the space industry both regionally and globally.