The UAE Space Agency has launched a youth council to inspire, support, and empower talented young Emiratis with an interest in space. Formed as a result of the agency’s efforts to foster a generation of young Emirati space leaders, the council was launched during an official ceremony at the UAE Space Agency headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
The ceremony was held in the presence of Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency Dr. Ahmad bin Abdullah Humaid Belhoul Al-Falasi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Chairperson of the Emirates Youth Council Shamma Al-Mazrui, Director General of the UAE Space Agency Dr. Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, and other senior officials and representatives.
“The launch of the UAE Space Agency Youth Council comes in line with the agency’s efforts. The council aims to empower ambitious, Emirati youth, to lead the national space sector and contribute to the UAE’s vision,” stated Al-Falasi. “The council operates in the framework of the ‘UAE’ Centennial 2071’ vision, which aims to empower the people of the UAE to realize their talents and capabilities to serve the nation’s economic, social and technological objectives — and ultimately be the best nation by 2071.”
Dr. Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al-Ahbabi said: “This initiative comes as part of our commitment to inspiring youth and supporting them in learning and developing. Encouraging youth to enter the space sector is a key goal of the UAE Space Agency and a part of UAE Vision 2021 to ensure that the UAE develops the human capital necessary to create a world-leading knowledge economy. We seek to prepare and nurture generations of talented UAE nationals to become leaders in the space industry and related technological fields.”
Hamed Abdullah Fadqaa, Emirates Youth Council coordinator, said: “Young people around the world have the potential to contribute directly to elevating any nation thanks to their ambition, perseverance, and determination. The establishment of this council aims to provide a platform for Emirati youth to share their innovative ideas and locate the resources they need to implement them, in collaboration with various government, scientific, and research entities within the UAE.”
Several events were organized on the sidelines of the launch ceremony, such as a display of a Tesla electric car, which will be sent to Mars, a detailed explanation of the Space Settlements initiative being launched by the newly formed council, and a painting that sought to encapsulate the motivations the Emirati youth, signed by Dr. Ahmad Abdullah Belhoul Al-Falasi and a number of young UAE Space Agency employees.
The ceremony also featured the appearance of the young inventor Fatema Al-Kaabi who showcased some of her inventions. Students from the Masdar Institute also presented their model of a satellite. Finally, toward the end of the ceremony, a group photo was later taken using a drone.
UAE space agency launches youth council to empower the next generation of Emirati space leaders
UAE space agency launches youth council to empower the next generation of Emirati space leaders
Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action
The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action.
From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season.
Key sporting events taking place during DSF:
Dubai Racing Carnival
- Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13.
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys.
More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday
Silver Cup
- Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24
- Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup
Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4
- Date: Jan. 4
- Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track
The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4
Hood to Coast Dubai 2026
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast
Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k)
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Meydan
Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run
Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026
- Date: Jan. 11
- Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon
A citywide sporting season
With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.
