UAE Launches Training for Future Space and Satellite Leaders

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

The National Space Academy, which is part of the UAE Space Agency, has launched a new programme called the Space Mission and Satellite Engineering Programme (SMSE). This programme is being organised in partnership with EDGE, a leading UAE advanced technology group. The main goal of the programme is to prepare the next generation of Emiratis to become experts in satellite engineering, space systems, and mission leadership.

Partnership to Build Space Skills

The SMSE programme is being delivered with the help of EDGE companies FADA and BEACON RED. It is designed to train young Emiratis in both theory and practical work. Participants will learn directly from industry experts and will gain skills that are essential for the UAE’s growing space industry. The training will help them become satellite engineers, system architects, and mission leaders.

Preparing Emiratis for Space Leadership

According to Eng. Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, preparing local talent is a key part of the country’s space strategy. He explained that the agency is committed to training and qualifying young Emiratis to meet the highest international standards. This will help them lead future space missions and projects efficiently, while also strengthening the UAE’s position as a leader in science, technology, and innovation.

Building an Integrated Education System

Al Qubaisi added that the National Space Academy is one of the agency’s major projects. Through the academy’s courses, the aim is to build a complete education and training system that includes both classroom learning and practical training. This system is designed to meet the needs of the labour market and prepare the country for the future of the space sector.

EDGE’s Role in the Programme

Waleid Al Mesmari, President of Space & Cyber Technologies at EDGE Group, said that the UAE’s success in space will depend on its ability to create a new generation of highly skilled Emiratis. He stated that this programme will not only provide world-class training and hands-on experience but will also show EDGE’s commitment to helping the UAE develop space capabilities at all levels.

Combining Education and Industry Expertise

Al Mesmari explained that by working together, the UAE Space Agency and EDGE are building a strong base for the country’s space future. This base includes education, industry knowledge, and strategic planning. The aim is to give Emirati professionals the power to shape and lead future space projects.

Ten-Week Training Schedule

The programme will run for ten weeks, from 16 September to 20 November 2025. Training will take place at several locations, including the UAE Space Agency’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, BEACON RED’s advanced training centre, and FADA’s facilities. The course will be a mix of in-person sessions and online lessons, all led by local and international experts.

Five Main Training Modules

The SMSE programme will have five main parts. These are: Designing Space Missions (DSM), Applied Space Systems Engineering (ASSE), Space System Verification and Validation (SSVV), Space Mission Operations (SMO), and a Central Case Project (CCP). The Central Case Project will let participants plan, design, and explain a real satellite mission from start to finish.

Hands-On Learning with Industry Tools

The training is designed to give participants practical experience through laboratory work and real projects. They will use industry-standard tools and software to complete their tasks. This will help them understand how space projects are planned and managed in real life. Participants will also go on site visits to leading aerospace and technology companies in the UAE.

Who Can Join the Programme

The programme is only open to UAE nationals. It is aimed at professionals working in the space industry, whether in government or private companies. It is also open to academic researchers working in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree or higher qualifications can also apply.

Supporting the UAE’s Space Vision

Through this programme, the UAE is showing its dedication to developing its own space experts. By investing in education and training, the country is making sure it can lead important space projects in the future. The SMSE programme is a step towards building a strong and independent space sector that can contribute to science, technology, and economic growth.

A Strategic Move for the Future

This initiative reflects the UAE’s vision to not just take part in space exploration but to be a leader in it. By combining academic learning, industry skills, and real-life training, the country is preparing its citizens to handle the complex challenges of future space missions. This is part of a larger strategy to strengthen national capabilities and increase the UAE’s role in the global space community.

UAE Space Training