The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is all set to showcase its advanced innovations at Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2025, one of the UAE's premier industrial events, serving as a platform to promote innovation, investment, and industrial growth across various sectors. MBRSC will showcase MBZ-SAT—the region's most advanced satellite—as a pioneering example of how space technology can drive industrial development, innovation, and collaboration.
Launched into orbit on January 14 this year, this landmark mission underscores the UAE's expanding expertise in next-generation satellite technology. It reflects the nation's ambition to establish itself as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and space innovation.
MBZ-SAT, engineered entirely by Emirati talent, marks a bold new chapter for the UAE's space sector. With 90 per cent of its mechanical components and a large share of its electronic systems sourced from within the country, the satellite exemplifies homegrown innovation at its finest. Leading UAE-based companies, including:
These top companies had played a key role by contributing cutting-edge components, technical expertise, and high-performance solutions. Their involvement showcases the growing strength and global competitiveness of the UAE's private sector in the aerospace industry.
Meanwhile, Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) supplied MBRSC with its pioneering CelestiAL solar aluminium—the world's first aluminium made using solar power. This sustainable metal was transformed into key components for MBZ-SAT by one of EGA's local partner companies, showcasing a powerful synergy between clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and space innovation.
Also read: EGA celebrates the launch of MBZ-SAT satellite
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer, EGA, said, "Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre's use of EGA's CelestiAL solar aluminium for MBZ-SAT shows how sustainable innovation is shaping the future of both space technology and our nation's industrial ecosystem. EGA was the first company in the world to produce aluminium commercially using solar power, significantly reducing emissions. We are proud that EGA's solar aluminium is now heading to the stars."
The MBRSC stand offers an up-close look at the future of space innovation with a full-scale qualification model for MBZ-SAT. On display are key components engineered and manufactured in collaboration with UAE-based partners, including the aluminium honeycomb panel, frame structure, reaction wheel bracket, electronic box, and harness.
Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director-General, MBRSC, said, "At MBRSC, we take pride in working alongside local partners to manufacture and integrate advanced components that meet the rigorous standards of space. The development of MBZ-SAT stands as a clear example of how collaboration between local entities can produce world-class results, elevate local manufacturing capabilities, and contribute to a thriving industrial ecosystem. Our participation at Make it in the Emirates reinforces our belief in the power of sovereign capabilities and innovation-driven growth. Through initiatives like these, we are not only shaping the future of space exploration but also actively supporting the UAE's broader vision of building a resilient, knowledge-based economy, rooted in technology, sustainability, and global competitiveness."
Each piece reflects the growing capabilities of the nation's industrial ecosystem. Adding to the showcase is a model of the Rashid Rover, a powerful symbol of the UAE's expanding footprint in lunar exploration and its broader commitment to shaping the global space economy.
"Strata was a key contributor in the development of MBZ-SAT by producing mechanical and flat components and equipping it with high-grade aluminium panels designed to withstand extreme temperatures and radiation in space," stated Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters unit within Mubadala's UAE Investments platform and Managing Director of Strata Manufacturing.
The MBZ-SAT project has become a powerful engine for economic growth, opening new doors for UAE companies in the high-tech manufacturing and space technology sectors. More than a satellite, it's a catalyst for transformation — driving local innovation, fostering industrial collaboration, and accelerating the transfer of critical skills and expertise. This mission is helping shape a sustainable, future-ready aerospace ecosystem that's uniquely Emirati.
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Image Source: Dubai Media House / X
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