TII Successfully Tests UAE’s First Liquid Rocket Engine

The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has achieved a major scientific breakthrough by successfully designing, building, and test-firing the UAE’s first liquid rocket engine. This historic achievement marks an important step in the nation’s mission to establish strong, independent space capabilities and drive future exploration projects.

Building the Foundation for Space Access

Liquid rocket engines are key to modern space exploration, as they power reusable launch vehicles and spacecraft that allow sustainable access to space. With this successful test, the UAE has joined the ranks of countries capable of developing advanced propulsion systems. These systems will help the nation conduct precise satellite manoeuvres, maintain orbital stability, and plan future missions to the Moon and Mars.

Details of the Engine Design

The new liquid rocket engine is a 250-newton thruster capable of producing enough force to lift 25 kilograms on Earth. Designed and developed entirely within the UAE, it is primarily intended for small satellite propulsion and orbital adjustments. Such engines are essential in improving satellite control, expanding mission flexibility, and enhancing space mobility for future exploration projects.

Successful Test and Performance Results

During multiple rigorous test sessions, the thruster demonstrated a combustion efficiency of up to 94 percent. More than 50 successful firings confirmed its reliability, strength, and consistency — qualities that are critical for its use in space missions. These test results validate TII’s research and establish a strong foundation for developing future generations of propulsion systems.

A Vision for Sovereign Space Capability

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, described the engine’s success as a milestone that represents more than just a technological breakthrough. “This engine is more than a technical success – it represents the foundation of a capability that will enable the UAE to design, test, and deploy propulsion systems for a range of future missions,” she said. Dr. Aaraj emphasized that the development ensures that the UAE’s talent is actively shaping the future of sovereign space technology.

Building Talent and Global Collaboration

The liquid rocket programme, based in Abu Dhabi, combines the expertise of Emirati engineers with international specialists. This collaboration supports national talent growth, helping young UAE scientists gain hands-on experience in advanced propulsion systems. It also aligns with the nation’s long-term strategy to develop homegrown innovation and make the UAE a regional leader in space science.

Advancing Propulsion Research in the UAE

Dr. Elias Tsoutsanis, Chief Researcher at TII’s Propulsion and Space Research Centre, highlighted the importance of this achievement. He said, “Successfully firing the UAE’s first liquid rocket engine is a major step in building sovereign propulsion capability. This milestone reflects our dedication and marks the beginning of a much larger journey toward developing advanced propulsion for deep space missions.”

Testing and Infrastructure Development

The initial tests were conducted at Airborne Engineering’s facilities in the United Kingdom through an international collaboration. However, TII plans to establish a dedicated test facility in the UAE soon. This will allow future cold-flow and hot-firing tests to take place locally, ensuring that development and innovation continue to grow within the country’s own infrastructure.

Roadmap for Future Space Missions

The UAE’s future roadmap includes developing larger engines, adopting cryogenic propellants, and building systems capable of supporting deep space exploration. These upcoming steps will advance the UAE’s ambition to become a significant player in global space missions. The country’s long-term vision aims to make space travel more frequent, sustainable, and accessible for scientific, commercial, and exploration goals.

Through the work of TII and ATRC, Abu Dhabi continues to position itself as a hub for advanced technology and space research. The successful creation and testing of this liquid rocket engine demonstrate the nation’s growing confidence and capability in shaping the future of space exploration. With continued investment and innovation, the UAE is well on its way to achieving lasting progress in the global space industry.