In a significant development on the sidelines of Dubai Airshow 2025, Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Bahrain Space Agency, held a meeting with Dr. Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports of the United Arab Emirates and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency. This encounter underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and advance the space sector between the two nations.
The meeting was attended by Salem bin Bhatti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, and Salem bin Hamid Al Marri, Director of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre. The discussion focused on exploring opportunities for joint collaboration, monitoring existing initiatives in satellite payload design and operation, and engaging in research and development within the space domain. Additionally, there was an emphasis on exchanging expertise in training national human resources.
Both parties acknowledged the significance of nurturing strategic partnerships and enhancing coordination efforts that contribute to fulfilling the national objectives of both countries. Their commitment reinforces the positions of Bahrain and the UAE in the regional and international space scene. Moreover, they lauded the positive outcomes achieved thus far through this fruitful collaboration.
Following the meeting, Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa visited the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre’s platform, where he met with astronaut Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, as well as several Emirati astronauts. He was briefed on multiple ongoing and future projects undertaken by the centre and received insights into the collaborative endeavors between the centre and the Bahrain Space Agency, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of both countries in the realm of deep space exploration.
Accompanying Sheikh Khalid during the meeting and the site tour were Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Asiri, CEO of the Bahrain Space Agency, and Mr. Khalid Ashir, Board Member. Their presence highlights the importance of continuous engagement and collaboration in enhancing the prospects of the space sector.