How Science and Sovereignty Are Fueling Innovation in the UAE’s Space Economy with Kavan Choksi
Kavan Choksi: How the UAE’s Space Program is Driving National Innovation and Global Scientific Collaboration The United Arab Emirates is charting a bold course in space exploration, emerging as a surprising yet serious player in the global space economy. Through missions like the Emirates Mars Mission, commonly known as the Hope Probe, the country is positioning itself at the intersection of science, sovereignty and technological development. Kavan Choksi observes that beyond the headlines, this space agenda reflects a deeper national strategy, one aimed at advancing STEM education, attracting international collaboration and accelerating innovation across multiple sectors. Mars Mission and National Aspiration Launched in 2020 and entering Mars orbit in 2021, the Hope Probe marked a historic moment for the UAE. It was the first Arab interplanetary mission and made the UAE only the fifth country to reach Mars. But the mission was not just a feat of engineer...
