Over a thousand policymakers, governments, industry, academia, and emerging space players from the public and private sectors will attend the second edition of the event set to take place on December 10-11, 2024.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, the second edition of the two-day event aims to drive the global space community from dialogue to action, ensuring that the conversations result in commitments and policies that secure the future of space. The 2024 edition of ADSD titled “From Earth to Orbit: A Space for Action and Accountability” will focus on sustainability, security, and accessibility—key challenges facing the space sector and future generations. 

We live in an era where the sustainability, security, and accessibility of space are increasingly at risk, namely from the growing threat of space debris, the pressing challenges of accessibility, and the lack of security in an increasingly crowded orbital environment. At ADSD, global leaders will address these critical challenges and form space policies that will enable a thriving and innovative space ecosystem.

As a result-driven platform, the priority of the ADSD is to set a foundation to ignite meaningful change that benefits the industry. The main objectives of the ADSD are to enable key stakeholders from governments, industry, academia, and emerging space players to shape the future of space exploration, challenge the status quo and inspire bold solutions to advance space policy. 

The ADSD is a place for debates, not just discussions - an approach that invites diverse perspectives, sparks critical thinking and generates innovative solutions for immediate and decisive actions on complex topics.

His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, said: “The Abu Dhabi Space Debate is the global platform for decision makers across the industry to align on priorities in the sector. Sustainability, security, and space accessibility are crucial challenges that require global collaboration. As a major convenor of industry leaders, ADSD is where the future of space is set.”

His Excellency Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said: “As opportunities in space continue to grow, the Abu Dhabi Space Debate fosters critical discussions to assess the current landscape and debate the future possibilities of space. ADSD measures success by the commitments and subsequent outcomes of our discussions. As a global platform, we anticipate this year’s edition of ADSD will make significant strides towards driving sustainable progress across the industry.”

His Excellency Ibrahim AlQassim, Deputy Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said: “Our primary objective is to contribute to transforming global space policy through bold ideas and actionable outcomes. By creating a platform that speaks to established leaders and aspiring youth, ADSD aims to nurture a dialogue that addresses current challenges and inspires future action in space sustainability, security, and accessibility.”

Key discussions at the 2024 edition of ADSD include a keynote presentation by world-renowned physicist and broadcaster Brian Cox and an insightful address by geopolitical expert Tim Marshall, who will explore how power and politics in space can contribute to reshaping the world.

The sessions on day one will focus on leveraging space technologies for global security, enhancing operations and responsibility from Earth to orbit, and tackling space debris through market-driven solutions and regulatory frameworks. Discussions will also foster collaboration in space exploration and national interests. Parallel workshops on security and sustainability, along with keynote presentations, will further the agenda. 

The second day will focus on the readiness of space regulations to meet the demands of the 21st century, ensuring space sustainability and amplifying the voices of emerging markets in the global space dialogue. Sessions will also explore the impact of space on global power dynamics and politics, balancing open access with national security in managing decentralised space activities, equitable access to knowledge derived from space, and a symbolic youth mock court workshop.

This milestone establishes Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline as voted by Skytrax in 2024, as an industry leader in bringing advanced technology on board. The airline is the largest and first carrier in the MENA region to offer passengers Starlink ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet. Starlink is free to all passengers and operates from gate to gate.

The national carrier of the State of Qatar is also set to exceed its initial target of three Starlink-equipped aircraft by introducing 12 Boeing 777-300s upgraded with this innovative service by the end of 2024. Qatar Airways has further committed to rolling out the technology on its entire Boeing 777 fleet in 2025 – one year ahead of schedule – with the Airbus A350 fleet following in the summer of 2025.

This significant move highlights Qatar Airways’ commitment to bridging the gap between the skies and the ground by offering ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet.

Engineered by SpaceX, Starlink is the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit that will provide passengers reliable, high-speed internet so they can stay connected with friends and family, stream their favourite entertainment, watch live sports, play online games, or work efficiently at 35,000 feet – all for free and with a simple ‘one-click-access’.

Qatar Airways’ Group chief executive officer, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “We are thrilled to launch our first Starlink-equipped flight, proving once again why Qatar Airways is at the forefront of the aviation industry.

“This milestone, paired with our commitment to rapidly roll-out Starlink across our entire modern fleet, demonstrates our relentless pursuit of offering passengers an in-flight experience that transcends the constraints of traditional air travel.

“By providing Starlink reliable, seamless internet on board, we are connecting people to the things they love the most even at 35,000 feet, making every journey with us a memorable one.”

The pavilion is designed to showcase and highlight the latest developments, leading projects, and milestones in the UAE's national space sector. Additionally, it will shed light on the UAE's ongoing efforts to support innovation, development, and sustainability in advanced space research. The 75th IAC is being held in Milan, Italy from 14-18 October.

“The UAE's participation in the IAC reflects its commitment to consolidating its position as a leading global hub for innovation in the space sector. This participation will open new horizons for international collaboration and exchange of expertise, while supporting the leadership’s visions and aspirations to achieve a comprehensive development in all sectors over the next 50 years and realize the UAE's national strategies for economic diversification and technological advancement,” said His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Chairman of UAE Space Agency.

“The UAE's pavilion at IAC offers a comprehensive platform to showcase the nation space sector’s capabilities and highlight our leading milestones and ambitious future projects. The UAE has made major strides in space sector, through several initiatives as well as  regional and international strategic partnerships. The UAE also worked to promote knowledge exchange and public-private collaboration,” said HE Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency.

“Our participation in the International Astronautical Congress reaffirms our commitment to supporting innovation and development within the UAE’s space sector while enhancing international cooperation in space research and exploration. Through the UAE Space Pavilion, we will showcase our achievements in space and highlight our future missions, which embody our ambitious aspirations. This event presents a vital opportunity to strengthen our relationship with international partners and exchange expertise. Such collaboration will drive sustainable development in the space sector and support the UAE's ambitious vision in this vital field, both regionally and globally.” said H.E. Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC).

Ali AlShehhi, Director of The National Space Science and Technology center added “At The National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC), we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of space science and technology. Our presence at IAC 2024, as part of the UAE Space Pavilion, highlights our strategic role in contributing to the UAE's vision for space exploration and innovation on a global scale.”

The event, the first of its kind in the UAE, will bring together a diverse group of leading academics, scientists, industry partners, and decision-makers from around the world. The conference will be attended by His Excellency Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and UAE Astronaut, along with several high-ranking officials, marking a significant moment for the nation’s space sector.

The conference aims to raise awareness and guide research efforts in line with the priorities of the UAE space sector, facilitate knowledge exchange, and foster collaboration among researchers, scientists, and field experts. Additionally, it seeks to strengthen partnerships to achieve shared research goals and objectives. The Space Research Conference will also provide a platform for STEM students, researchers, scientific and technical experts, and industry leaders to showcase the latest research and technological innovations, discuss new developments, and explore future prospects in various fields of space science and technology, while offering a platform to promote collaboration opportunities between space and the academic sectors.

“Space research is at the core of humanity's advancement in understanding the universe and addressing challenges here on Earth. It provides us with the opportunity to develop groundbreaking technologies, improve life for people globally, and ensure our sustainable future. This conference has been a vital platform for collaboration, bringing together experts, academics, and industry leaders to work together to explore new frontiers and drive innovation. By supporting initiatives like this, we are not only building a strong space ecosystem in the UAE but also contributing to the global effort to push the boundaries of science and technology for the benefit of all,” said His Excellency Dr. Sultan Saif AlNeyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs.

“The Space Research Conference serves as an ideal platform to foster collaboration between researchers and academics, aligning research efforts with the UAE’s space sector priorities across six key domains: Satellite Communications, Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT), Earth Observation, Access to Space and Sustainability, Space Exploration, and Space Situational Awareness. This conference also reflects the UAE Space Agency’s commitment to nurturing national talent by enhancing research capabilities and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, ensuring their active contribution to the future of the national space sector,” said His Excellency Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency.

On the sidelines of the conference, the UAE Space Agency will launch the Space Research Platform, an integrated platform and search engine that includes the latest research, white papers, publications, scientific articles, and more across various space-related fields. The platform also features a database of researchers, who are contributing to the development of the UAE’s space sector. It contains more than 450 scientific publications and brings together over 200 specialized researchers in the space sector, covering six key areas in the field.

The platform provides access to the latest research, publications, and space-related resources, facilitating the exchange of information between researchers and experts. It also offers researchers a dedicated space to showcase their work and share knowledge that drives progress in space exploration, technology, and other related fields.

The conference will include key general sessions with motivational opening remarks and presentations delivered by industry and academic partners. The partners include Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, Space42, Technology Innovation Institute (TII), National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC), Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, as well as New York Abu Dhabi and Khalifa University, Madari, and presentations from research participants.

Day One includes opening remarks and a series of activities and presentations by the UAE Space Agency and Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, Space42, and TII. The presentations will focus on the latest developments in space technology and highlight the future opportunities in this vital sector. The participants will be able to network and exchange expertise with leading institutions and companies.

Activities on Day One will also include the “Space for Sustainability” hackathon that will be launched in collaboration with Space42, Planet, Thales, and the Youth Councils. The two-day event will aim to address sustainability challenges using space technology. 60 experts and mentors, as well as 18 teams of entrepreneurs will work to develop innovative solutions for five climate-related challenges, including flood-related disaster management, losses and damage resulting from climate control, monitoring and forecasting air quality, monitoring and forecasting water quality, and mapping and monitoring mangroves.

Day Two of the conference will focus on academic presentations delivered by a leading space scientists and specialists. The event will begin with the National Center for Space Science and Technology and Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, highlighting the latest developments in scientific research and space exploration. Additionally, New York University Abu Dhabi and Khalifa University will deliver presentations focusing on technology and innovation in space exploration and navigation. Day Two will focus on discussions surrounding the UAE's analogue program, including initiatives like the HERA analog, which simulates the International Space Station (ISS) environment in collaboration with NASA and Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center.

Day Three of the Space Research Conference 2024 will be dedicated to celebrating the achievements of two graduating cohorts from the National Space Academy. The day will also honor participants from the Space Applications Courses and the Seed Program to engineer and develop satellite systems in collaboration with Space42 and Edge Group, followed by a ceremony awarding certificates of appreciation to participating experts. Additionally, the winners of the research paper competition, covering six distinct fields and judged by a panel of experts, will be announced.

The conference witnessed more than 100 papers submitted in the key domains of national space policy in: satellite communications, positioning, navigation, and timing technologies, Earth observation, sustainability and access to space and sustainability, space exploration, and space situational awareness. These papers were presented by a leading group of experts and specialists from various academic and research institutions from space sector.

This premier forum’s seventh edition is shaping the future of these industries, driving high-level discussions around sustainability, innovation, and talent development—critical components for ensuring long-term global growth.

The opening of the summit featured a pivotal panel discussion on ‘Developing the nation’s defence industry system,’ where Mohamed Alahbabi, Senior Advisor & Space Lead at EDGE Group, alongside global leaders in the sector, shared insights into strategic innovation, smart manufacturing, and the importance of international partnerships in bolstering the UAE’s defence capabilities.

Dr Alahbabi emphasised the UAE’s strategic investments in space and aerospace: “The UAE continues to invest heavily in these sectors. The growth trajectory will continue with more satellites entering orbit, new companies being established, and greater investments in human capital. Space is fundamental to the advancement of science, innovation, and defence. We take pride in the UAE’s unparalleled achievements in these industries.”

A keynote delivered by H.E. Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), marked a significant moment for the UAE’s space sector. He celebrated the achievements of the UAE National Space Programme, coinciding with the fifth anniversary of H.E. Dr Sultan Al Neyadi’s first space mission. Al Marri underscored the nation's commitment to positioning itself as a global leader in space exploration: “Through space exploration, we are realising the vision of the UAE, contributing to national development and creating high-tech jobs. Space technologies have profoundly transformed our world, and today, they are undoubtedly an essential part of our daily lives, not a luxury.”

Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Transformation

Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector remains a key focus for the region's growth. Ali Rajab, Executive Vice President of GACA and Board Member of the Saudi Air Connectivity Programme, provided significant updates on Saudi air connectivity and its role in advancing the country’s strategic goals. Discussions also centred on Saudi Arabia's transformation, during the panel ‘Offering insights into the future of the Saudi Arabian Aviation sector’ with leaders such as Osamah Alnuasier, SVP of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air, and Grainne van den Berg, Head of Airline Marketing Middle East and North Africa at Airbus, outlining ambitious plans for the future.

Van Den Berg highlighted Airbus’s pivotal role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions: “The Kingdom’s aviation sector is undergoing unprecedented growth, and Airbus is proud to support this transformation through sustainable aircraft innovations. Our strategic partnerships are driving the modernisation of fleets and supporting the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.”

Technological Advancements and Sustainable Aviation

Technological innovation remains central to the discussions and these were discussed during the panel titled ‘Technological advancements and disruptions in the regional and international aerospace landscape.’ During this discussion, Josef Mouris, CEO of Electron Aerospace, addressed the evolving challenges faced by the aviation sector, including the increasing impact of CO2 charges. Mouris noted, “Adapting our strategic thinking is paramount as we move forward. The industry will see more small aircraft and retrofitted planes enter the market, designed to meet existing regulatory and sustainability standards.”

The conversation also touched upon research and development in the industry. Speaking on the panel titled ‘What is next for R&D in Aerospace?’ Sharief Fahmy, Executive Director at KAMAN said “There's no better environment than the ecosystem that's been established here in the Middle East, and more specifically, in UAE and Abu Dhabi. I've been part of the community for 16 years now, and to see how fast we've come along in a very short period of time, it all has to do with the fact that you are in an environment that really promotes talent and development.”

In a special interview on stage, Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Airways, reinforced Etihad’s leadership in shaping Abu Dhabi’s aviation landscape. Neves elaborated on the airline’s strategic focus on expanding its network, increasing passenger numbers, and driving talent development, particularly among Emiratis. “Etihad remains at the forefront of the UAE’s aviation sector, working towards expanding both our network and our workforce. We are committed to building long-term careers for Emiratis, from cadet pilots to senior executives, and continuing our reputation for exceptional service,” said Neves.