The UAE announced its plans on Friday to develop a new satellite, the MBZ set.
The new satellite is named after Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, said the Emirati team would build satellites using the latest technology in the region.
Our efforts continue towards developing a competitive and integrated space sector, led by national experts, astronauts and research centers. Our Hope probe and lunar rover are the beginning of the UAE’s participation in the global race to space. pic.twitter.com/BY0gBOk8J7
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) October 28, 2020
Sheikh Muhammad bin Rashid said the satellite would be used for civic and commercial purposes.
The MBZ Set, part of the UAE's Satellite Program and National Space Program, aims to meet the growing demand for space data.
This was stated by Amir Al-Sayyug, Senior Director, Muhammad Bin Rashid Center for Government Innovation, during a press briefing.
The satellite is expected to be completed in 2023, according to Elseog.
He added that the UAE is currently in talks with potential partners to launch the satellite.
The life cycle of this satellite is expected to be five to seven years.
