Today's Edition
AMNA AL KATBI (DUBAI)
The UAE Space Agency continues to develop the Economic Space Zones Programme to support start-ups and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), stimulating the national space economy.
Recently, two new space zones were announced in the Emirates of Dubai and Sharjah, bringing the total number of economic space zones to three.
The UAE Space Agency aims to provide initiatives and economic incentives in collaboration with various partners in the country. It has launched a comprehensive programme to support the establishment, growth, and sustainability of national companies related to the space sector. This is done with the goal of enhancing the contribution of this vital sector to the national economy and GDP, focusing on increasing the number of companies in space economic zones across the UAE.
The Agency aims to engage the private sector as a major contributor to growth and development efforts. The Space Economy Committee, in collaboration with all stakeholders in the sector, works to enable the growth of the space ecosystem.
The key initiatives of the Economic Space Zones include providing a set of economic incentives for the space sector, in addition to space labs and the establishment of economic space zones.
The main objectives are to create an attractive and integrated working environment that meets local and global needs, enhance the competitiveness of companies operating in the space economy, contribute to the demand for space technologies and services, stimulate innovation, and increase the economic contribution of the sector to the non-oil GDP of the country.
The UAE Space Agency has identified six space incentives within the Economic Space Zones Programme developed to support startups and SMEs. These incentives include:
Fast Track Approval: A permit issued by the agency for the owner or operator to conduct specific space or space-supporting activities, including licences, permits, and approvals, in accordance with Federal Law No. 12 of 2019 regarding the regulation of the space sector.
Space Labs: Companies will be able to use space facilities in collaboration with relevant partners as space research centres. This includes access to technical expertise provided by specialised experts.
Accelerator Programmes: Business acceleration and development opportunities will be provided for startups and SMEs in collaboration with local partners.
Financial Opportunities: Solutions and financial facilities will be provided to startups and SMEs.
Shared Workspaces: In the initial stage, competitive-priced offices and workspaces will be provided in a stimulating environment, helping companies grow and develop. This will be done in collaboration with local partners in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Promotion Opportunities: The UAE Space Agency will provide opportunities for promotion and presentation of products and space services offered by companies. This includes expanding the network by connecting with experts in the sector and staying informed about the latest developments in the field through participation in major local and global space events.
