Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid meets UAE astronauts Sultan Al Neyadi, Hazzaa Al Mansoori and the ‘Zayed Ambition 2’ team

Sheikh Mohammed said that under the leadership of the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has successfully positioned itself as a key player in shaping the future of the world in numerous critical sectors focused on improving the quality of the human life. The United Arab Emirates has demonstrated remarkable determination in its pursuit of global leadership in the field of space exploration and, with the dedication of Emirati talent, has successfully earned global recognition for its outstanding achievements in this sector, Sheikh Mohammed added. .

Sheikh Mohammed praised Al Neyadi, Al Mansoori and the MBRSC team for their exemplary role in strengthening the UAE’s status as global pioneers in space exploration.

“We value every achievement of our brightest minds to drive the country’s journey towards progress and innovation. Al Neyadi and Al Mansoori’s commitment serves as an inspiring model for young Emiratis and Arabs, as well as young people around the world, who strive to achieve the highest levels of excellence in crucial fields that benefit humanity and give shapes a better future for the world.” he said.

During the meeting, which was also attended by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, and other senior officials, Sheikh Mohammed further praised the unwavering commitment and zeal shown by the MBRSC team, underlining its meticulous preparations and skillful handling. of each phase of the mission. His exemplary performance reflects the UAE’s commitment to excellence on the global stage and shows the resilience of its people, Sheikh Mohammed said.

In his meeting with Al Neyadi and Al Mansoori, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the results of the longest Arab space mission, which concluded last month. Al Neyadi, who spent six months aboard the ISS, briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the experiments and research studies he conducted in collaboration with international space agencies and entities. He also shared his experience performing the first Arab spacewalk, which lasted seven hours and one minute.

Al Mansoori, who was the first Arab surge leader for Expedition 69, also briefed His Highness on his role during the mission, which included supporting Al Neyadi and his crewmates in coordinating experiments, daily tasks and other activities. on the ISS from the Mission. Control Center in Houston.

Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the two UAE astronauts for their contributions in realizing the late Sheikh Zayed’s ambition to transform the UAE into a leader in the international space industry. As a token of appreciation and gratitude, Al Neyadi presented His Highness Sheikh Mohammed with the flag of the United Arab Emirates which he took to the International Space Station (ISS).

During the meeting, the MBRSC team also briefed Sheikh Mohammed about the latest training programs being undertaken by UAE astronauts Al Mulla and Nora Al Matrooshi to prepare for future human spaceflight missions.

The meeting was also attended by Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President of MBRSC; HHamad Obaid AlMansoori, president of the MBRSC; Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of the MBRSC; UAE astronaut Mohammad Al Mulla along with members of the ‘Zayed Ambition 2’ mission team.

Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori expressed his gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his unwavering support to the MBRSC team, which has played an important role in the achievements that have strengthened the UAE’s global presence in the space sector.

“A fundamental achievement is the mission led by Al Neyadi to the ISS. In line with the ever-changing dynamics of the space sector, we remain committed to nurturing our teams, advancing innovation, and paving the way to the next frontier. Our goal is to establish a collaborative global platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience. “We will also continue to invest in missions, projects and initiatives that will set unparalleled standards in space science and exploration.”

Salem Humaid Al Marri, said: “The mission undertaken by Al Neyadi, during which he spent six months aboard the ISS and conducted a series of important experiments, symbolizes a monumental step for MBRSC, setting the precedent for what follows in our manned space flight missions. . “We are resolute in our ambition to drive MBRSC initiatives to even greater heights, shaping the future of space exploration and ensuring that innovation and discovery are always at the forefront.”

The ‘Zayed Ambition 2’ mission was launched as part of the UAE Astronaut Programme, which is one of the projects managed by MBRSC under the UAE National Space Programme. During the mission, Al Neyadi spent 600 hours conducting 200 experiments on the ISS, representing key contributions that further cement the nation’s legacy in the global space arena.