The United Arab Emirates and Egypt have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in space activities for peaceful purposes, marking a significant step in regional space cooperation. The agreement, formalized between the UAE Space Agency and the Egyptian Space Agency, was signed at the NewSpace Africa Conference and the 11th Meeting of the Arab Space Cooperation Group in Cairo.
The UAE delegation was led by Eng. Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, who also attended the inauguration of the African Space Agency headquarters on April 20, 2025. The event brought together key space leaders, ministers, and officials from across Africa, highlighting the continent’s growing importance in global space development.
Al Qubaisi described the MoU as a key development in advancing Arab cooperation in the space sector. He emphasized that the UAE views space as a critical platform for sustainable development, fostering innovation, and promoting knowledge exchange to address both regional and global challenges. The agreement aligns with the shared vision of the UAE and Egypt to invest in human capital, localize scientific expertise, and build an innovation-driven economy.
The MoU outlines a long-term framework for collaboration in various civil space initiatives. These include Earth observation, satellite communication, remote sensing, space situational awareness, navigation systems, and research in emerging space technologies. The agreement also supports the exchange of technical knowledge, joint development of space projects, and alignment with both countries’ sustainable development goals.
The UAE Space Agency stressed that the agreement with Egypt is part of the broader UAE vision to become a leading regional and global player in the space sector. It reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties with Arab nations, advancing scientific progress, and using space technologies for community service and future resilience.
Through this collaboration with Egypt, the UAE further expands its international space partnerships, reinforcing its dedication to peaceful space exploration and technological advancement for future generations.
