Sheikh Mohammed talks to UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi in space

Sheikh Mohammed says UAE space mission a source of pride for all Arabs

AUAE astronaut phoned home to talk to the Dubai ruler and people in his beloved homeland.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, held a live video call with Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi who is based in the International Space Station (ISS) for the next six months.

Al Neyadi and his Crew-6 teammates docked with the ISS after a 24-hour flight onboard the SpaceX Dragon Endeavor spacecraft to begin the longest Arab space mission.

UAE space goals

During his live call from to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Sheikh Mohammed congratulated Al Neyadi on his safe arrival at the ISS.

He also commended the international accomplishments of the UAE and its citizens’ exceptional achievements.

Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that the UAE has earned its place among the stars thanks to the tireless efforts of its sons and daughters, and the hard work of several taskforces, and added that the best is yet to come.

These efforts began with the establishment of the MBRSC, followed by the creation of the UAE Space Agency, the launch of the National Space Strategy, and several programmes to train Emiratis in science and space-related fields.

Sheikh Mohammed noted that the ultimate aspiration began in the 1970s with Zayed’s dream and determination to explore space and etch the name of the UAE not only on earth, but also in the sky.

Sheikh Mohammed said that the Arab region is in dire need of an inspirational role model to develop its scientific capabilities. The UAE’s achievements have provided a model not only for the region, but also for the world, he said, adding that Al Neyadi’s accomplishment has fulfilled the dream of his fellow Arabs.

Sheikh Mohammed said: “Your safe arrival at the ISS is a source of pride for all of us, and a motivation for all Emiratis, Arabs and the global youth who follow you.

“I always say that everything is possible for the people of the UAE, and our strong will makes the impossible possible” he added.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the scientific experiments carried out by Sultan since his arrival at the station on Friday.

He was informed that the planned scientific programme is on track and provides an opportunity for the UAE to collaborate with international space agencies in conducting research, particularly on the effects of zero gravity on the human body and how to mitigate its risks in the future.

Sheikh Mohammed said: “Our journey started more than 50 years ago from the desert without any capabilities, and today our flag has reached space and flies around Mars.

“Your compatriot astronaut Hazza Al Mansouri started the journey in 2019, and today we continue the journey of developing national competencies in the space sector and writing new chapters in our exceptional journey.”

Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that the UAE is sending a new message of development to the world, demonstrating how to create a new reality and a brighter future for the region by prioritising education, knowledge-sharing, and leveraging technology to unlock new opportunities.

“The Emirati dream does not allow for setbacks or complacency. Every dream we have is followed by a greater dream that surpasses expectations and breaks new ground. Space has opened its doors to us, and Emiratis are effectively contributing to the global scientific and knowledge renaissance,” he said.

Astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi expressed his gratitude and deep appreciation for the unwavering support and follow-up of the wise leadership at all stages of the mission, and the UAE leaders’ keenness to prepare a promising generation of Emirati youth equipped with knowledge and sciences to participate in the march of global development and progress.

During the meeting, Hazza Al Mansouri explained the details of the Zayed Ambition 2 mission, and the research and experiments that the Crew-6 team will conduct during their six-month stay on the ISS.