SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
From deep space to the launch pad, World Space Week 2026 celebrates the technologies transforming access to space. The theme is “Rocket Revolution.”
At the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub (SSAH), activities run from October 4 – 8, featuring lectures, planetarium shows and hands-on workshops; covering rocket history, space debris, lunar exploration, launch delays, space weather and model rockets.
Prof. Hamid M K Al Naimiy, Director of the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, said the UAE’s space sector reflects this year’s theme, “Rocket Revolution,” through its expanding role in exploration and satellite development.
“The UAE reflects the spirit of the Rocket Revolution through pioneering missions such as the Emirates Mars Mission, the Emirates Lunar Mission, participation in NASA’s Lunar Gateway, and the Emirates Mission to Explore the Asteroid Belt,” he said.
Advances in launch technologies and commercial services have also made space more accessible and reduced costs, creating opportunities for universities and research institutions.
This shift is reflected in the Hub’s development and launch of SharjahSat-1 in 2023 and SharjahSat-2 in 2026. “These projects highlight how academic institutions in the UAE are increasingly contributing to satellite development, scientific research, and workforce development,” Prof. Al Naimiy said.
Prof. Al Naimiy noted that reusable rockets and falling launch costs could give the UAE greater flexibility to expand satellite, lunar and deep-space missions. “Reusable rockets and lower launch costs make it easier and more affordable to launch satellites, conduct scientific experiments and test new technologies,” he said.
The shift is also opening space projects to more universities, researchers and companies, along with creating hands-on opportunities for students. “At Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, internship and training programs allow students to engage directly with satellite projects, research activities and space science initiatives,” he said.
On the UAE’s growing space economy, Prof. Al Naimiy said the country is expanding private-sector participation through the Space Economic Zones Program and National Space Fund.
“The UAE is developing a competitive commercial space ecosystem,” he said.
On developing future talent, SSAH is supporting research, satellite projects, and hands-on training.
It was also selected to host the International Astronomical Union (IAU) Office of Astronomy for Education (OAE) Center UAE. This is as a global network dedicated to advancing astronomy and space education.
“The Center will support teacher training, educational resource development, regional collaboration and astronomy education across the Arab world,” he added, that will contribute to the growth of the UAE's space economy.
Addressing the sustainability of increased space activity, Fatima Mohamed Alkhateri, Acting Director of Sharjah Astronomical Planetarium Department, said growing launch activity must be matched by efforts to reduce debris and improve orbital safety.
“As launch activity increases, sustainability must remain a priority,” she said.
This includes, as she noted, reducing debris, improving satellite disposal and strengthening cooperation on orbital safety.
“The UAE supports responsible use of space through international collaboration and awareness initiatives,” Alkhateri said, raising awareness of sustainable space exploration for future generations.
Charting the UAE’s future course in space, Alkhateri said the UAE must continue investing in research, technology, entrepreneurship and national talent to strengthen its global space role.
“Long-term success will be achieved with UAE-based innovative technologies, scientific discoveries and commercial solutions to the global space sector,” she said.
Stronger collaboration between government, industry and academia can expand the UAE’s global space role.
She added that Sharjah Planetarium’s year-round workshops, exhibitions and public events at SSAH also help inspire future space talent. “The Hub helps ignite curiosity about space and science among young people, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators,” Alkhateri said.