Saudi space agency training program ready for liftoff

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Updated 21 May 2023
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Saudi space agency training program ready for liftoff

  • The meetings focused on bilateral cooperation in spacecraft launch services, building partnerships to contribute to the growth of the space tourism sector, and developing the sector’s role in achieving the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030

RIYADH: The Saudi Space Commission will launch a major training initiative aimed at new graduates seeking careers in the space sector.

As part of the Madar program, theoretical and practical courses will be offered to 1,000 male and female trainees from various scientific specialties.

The initiative is part of the SSC’s efforts to develop national capabilities and skills in the space sector.

SSC Chairman Abdullah Al-Swaha recently held talks with heads of US space companies on the exchange of expertise and technologies, as well as enhancing joint capabilities in the sector.

The meetings focused on bilateral cooperation in spacecraft launch services, building partnerships to contribute to the growth of the space tourism sector, and developing the sector’s role in achieving the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The SSC training program includes three main tracks.

A “specialized space orbit” track consists of two sub-tracks, the “satellite” track and the “public space” track, which will be presented over five weeks each.

Short training courses as part of a “knowledge orbit” track will last for five days, while the “alpha orbit” track to prepare future trainers will last for up to two weeks.

The program targets new graduates, and those interested in careers in the space sector.


Economic growth and resilience at heart of 2nd AlUla Emerging Market Economies Conference

Updated 03 February 2026
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Economic growth and resilience at heart of 2nd AlUla Emerging Market Economies Conference

  • Event on Feb. 8 and 9 will bring together ministers, governors of central banks, policymakers, economic experts and international financial institutions
  • Emerging-market economies a ‘pivotal element’ in global economic system due to effect they have on growth and stability, says Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan

RIYADH: The second annual AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies, which Saudi Arabia will host next week, offers a platform to exchange views on global developments and discuss policies and reforms that support inclusive growth and strengthen economic resilience, the Kingdom’s finance minister said.

The event on Feb. 8 and 9 will bring together finance ministers, governors of central banks and policymakers, alongside economic experts and representatives of international financial institutions.

Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Finance in partnership with the International Monetary Fund, it takes place as emerging-market economies face mounting challenges amid rapid global economic change.

Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan said the decision to host the conference reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to efforts that support global financial and economic stability, and highlights the growing influence of emerging economies on worldwide growth.

Emerging-market economies represent a “pivotal element” in the global economic system due to the direct impact they have on economic growth and stability, he added.

“The AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies provides a unique platform for exchanging views on global economic developments, and discussing policies and reforms that will support inclusive growth and enhance economic resilience, in light of broader international cooperation that contributes to confronting common challenges,” Al-Jadaan said.

Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the IMF, said the event would help emerging economies deal with growing uncertainty driven by technological change, demographic shifts and geopolitical tensions.

“The AlUla conference provides a vital platform for emerging economies to discuss how they can navigate the risks and embrace the opportunities ahead,” she said.

“In these times of sweeping transformations in the global economy, policymakers face a more challenging and uncertain environment. Countries should work together to strengthen resilience through sound macroeconomic and financial policies.”