After the UAE launched the Arab world’s first successful mission to Mars on Tuesday, discussion around other regional space programmes has been re-energised.
People across the region tuned in to watch the Emirates Mars Mission online.
The probe, called Hope (Amal in Arabic), is now in orbit around the Red Planet – a feat only achieved by four others, including the US, the former Soviet Union, the European Space Agency and India.
The ambition has been brewing since 2014, when the UAE announced it would send a mission to Mars. "We chose the epic challenge of reaching Mars because epic challenges inspire us and motivate us. The moment we stop taking on such challenges is the moment we stop moving forward," Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said at the time.
Six years on, the Hope probe has been successfully sent into orbit around Mars, with the first images due to be beamed back in a week followed by the scientific data it has been sent to capture within the next two months.
Overcoming a 50 per cent chance of failure as it entered the Mars orbit, Hope has inspired memories of other space ventures in the region.
Here is a breakdown of other prominent space initiatives and programmes in the Middle East:
Saudi Arabia
In 1985, Saudi Prince Sultan bin Salman Al Saud became the first Arab to fly in space after being chosen by Nasa to fly on the space shuttle Discovery as part of a seven-member international crew.
During the seven-day mission, Prince Sultan represented the Arab Satellite Communications Organisation (Arabsat) and took part in the deployment of the organisation’s satellite, ARABSAT-1B.
While in space, he also carried out a series of experiments that had been designed by Saudi scientists, including an experiment concerning the behaviour of oil and water when mixed in zero gravity.
Last year, the kingdom announced it was planning to allocate a $2.1 billion boost for its space programme by 2030 under an economic diversification plan.
In 2018, it established the Saudi Space Commission (SSC) to stimulate space-related research and become a global player in the space industry.
Saudi Arabia is a main founder and financier of the Arabsat, launched in 1976 to deliver satellite-based telecommunications services across the Arab world.
Morocco
Moroccan scientific production in astronomy and astrophysics has shown sustained growth since the late 1980s.
It is mainly thanks to the Oukaimeden Observatory, a joint Swiss-French-Moroccan project,located 50km south of Marrakech in the High Atlas mountains at an altitude of 2,750 metres.
Over the past decade, the project’s giant telescope has become one of the most prolific telescopes in the world in terms of discoveries of small bodies in the Solar System.
Qatar
Qatar entered the space age in 2010 when it launched the Qatar Exoplanet Survey (QES), founded by Khalid Al Subai, who returned to Qatar after gaining a doctorate in astronomy in the United Kingdom.
The goal was to explore the space for exoplanets – the small planets orbiting a star other than our sun.
The QES project uses a space-probing method known as transit to detect new exoplanets through its remotely located telescopes in New Mexico (USA), Tenerife (Spain) and Urumqi (China).
In 2013, Qatar successfully launched its first satellite, Es'hail -1.
The satellite was launched into space on board an Ariane 5 rocket from the Kourou spaceport in French Guiana.
Egypt
Egypt's early interest in interstellar exploration dates to 1960 when it officially started its space programme.
Over the past three decades, Egypt has set a record in Africa, launching a total of nine satellites into space with the main purpose of communication and TV broadcasting.
In 2016, the government created a national space agency to keep pace with digital competition and the development of knowledge-based economies in the Middle East.
Bahrain
In 2014, Bahrain established National Space Science with a vision to promote scientific and space research.
Four years later, the kingdom announced it was setting up a “space team” with the aim of launching its first satellite into orbit.
The 3U CubeSat, which is being implemented by young scientists from Bahrain and the UAE as part of a joint space project, is expected to be launched to the International Space Station this August, and from there into space in October 2021.
Oman
The sultanate's first national satellite programme began in June 2020, led by Space Communications Technology LLC, which aims to launch it's thefirst satellite by 2024.
The project is being developed to bolster the country's telecommunications network and serve the evolving needs of Oman’s public and private sectors.
Speaking ahead of the country’s 50th National Day, the minister said Oman’s plans to go to space actually began in 2006.
Israel
Israel established its space agency in 1983 with a vision to be among the leading countries involved in space research and its exploitation.
The agency has invested since then in start-ups, development and construction of the country’s own satellites for civilian purposes.
It further cultivated a cadre of Israeli scientists through focusing on space science education and community projects.
Israel became in the 1980s the eighth country in the world to succeed in launching and positioning satellites in space.
The Israeli space scientists focus on high resolution photographic satellites that are positioned in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and communication satellites positioned in the Geocentric Orbit (GEO).
Lebanon
In the 1960s, a young Armenian man named Manoug Manougian and a group of seven students established the Lebanese Rocket Society out of the American University of Beirut.
Their prototype rockets had to be built from scratch using cardboard and bits of piping due to a very tight budget.
They managed to design the first rocket by April 1961, which reached an altitude of 1,000 metres. The next rocket made it to 2,000 metres.
After word of their efforts spread, the students named their project after Lebanon's Cedar, a symbol of resilience and strength.
Several regional countries were reportedly interested in buying their project, but Mr Manougian told the BBC that he rejected all bids.
He decided to halt the programme after a failed third launch narrowly missed a ship in the Mediterranean, but remains a source of pride in Lebanon, which issued stamps to commemorate the unfulfilled space dream.
Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
The specs: Audi e-tron
Price, base: From Dh325,000 (estimate)
Engine: Twin electric motors and 95kWh battery pack
Transmission: Single-speed auto
Power: 408hp
Torque: 664Nm
Range: 400 kilometres
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Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
Top investing tips for UAE residents in 2021
Build an emergency fund: Make sure you have enough cash to cover six months of expenses as a buffer against unexpected problems before you begin investing, advises Steve Cronin, the founder of DeadSimpleSaving.com.
Think long-term: When you invest, you need to have a long-term mindset, so don’t worry about momentary ups and downs in the stock market.
Invest worldwide: Diversify your investments globally, ideally by way of a global stock index fund.
Is your money tied up: Avoid anything where you cannot get your money back in full within a month at any time without any penalty.
Skip past the promises: “If an investment product is offering more than 10 per cent return per year, it is either extremely risky or a scam,” Mr Cronin says.
Choose plans with low fees: Make sure that any funds you buy do not charge more than 1 per cent in fees, Mr Cronin says. “If you invest by yourself, you can easily stay below this figure.” Managed funds and commissionable investments often come with higher fees.
Be sceptical about recommendations: If someone suggests an investment to you, ask if they stand to gain, advises Mr Cronin. “If they are receiving commission, they are unlikely to recommend an investment that’s best for you.”
Get financially independent: Mr Cronin advises UAE residents to pursue financial independence. Start with a Google search and improve your knowledge via expat investing websites or Facebook groups such as SimplyFI.
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The five pillars of Islam
1. Fasting
2. Prayer
3. Hajj
4. Shahada
5. Zakat
Haircare resolutions 2021
From Beirut and Amman to London and now Dubai, hairstylist George Massoud has seen the same mistakes made by customers all over the world. In the chair or at-home hair care, here are the resolutions he wishes his customers would make for the year ahead.
1. 'I will seek consultation from professionals'
You may know what you want, but are you sure it’s going to suit you? Haircare professionals can tell you what will work best with your skin tone, hair texture and lifestyle.
2. 'I will tell my hairdresser when I’m not happy'
Massoud says it’s better to offer constructive criticism to work on in the future. Your hairdresser will learn, and you may discover how to communicate exactly what you want more effectively the next time.
3. ‘I will treat my hair better out of the chair’
Damage control is a big part of most hairstylists’ work right now, but it can be avoided. Steer clear of over-colouring at home, try and pursue one hair brand at a time and never, ever use a straightener on still drying hair, pleads Massoud.
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UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Ashes 2019 schedule
August 1-5: First Test, Edgbaston
August 14-18: Second Test, Lord's
August 22-26: Third Test, Headingley
September 4-8: Fourth Test, Old Trafford
September 12-16: Fifth Test, Oval
UK's plans to cut net migration
Under the UK government’s proposals, migrants will have to spend 10 years in the UK before being able to apply for citizenship.
Skilled worker visas will require a university degree, and there will be tighter restrictions on recruitment for jobs with skills shortages.
But what are described as "high-contributing" individuals such as doctors and nurses could be fast-tracked through the system.
Language requirements will be increased for all immigration routes to ensure a higher level of English.
Rules will also be laid out for adult dependants, meaning they will have to demonstrate a basic understanding of the language.
The plans also call for stricter tests for colleges and universities offering places to foreign students and a reduction in the time graduates can remain in the UK after their studies from two years to 18 months.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
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The specs
Engine: four-litre V6 and 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo
Transmission: six-speed and 10-speed
Power: 271 and 409 horsepower
Torque: 385 and 650Nm
Price: from Dh229,900 to Dh355,000
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EPL's youngest
- Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal)
15 years, 181 days old
- Max Dowman (Arsenal)
15 years, 235 days old
- Jeremy Monga (Leicester)
15 years, 271 days old
- Harvey Elliott (Fulham)
16 years, 30 days old
- Matthew Briggs (Fulham)
16 years, 68 days old
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Dirham Stretcher tips for having a baby in the UAE
Selma Abdelhamid, the group's moderator, offers her guide to guide the cost of having a young family:
• Buy second hand stuff
They grow so fast. Don't get a second hand car seat though, unless you 100 per cent know it's not expired and hasn't been in an accident.
• Get a health card and vaccinate your child for free at government health centres
Ms Ma says she discovered this after spending thousands on vaccinations at private clinics.
• Join mum and baby coffee mornings provided by clinics, babysitting companies or nurseries.
Before joining baby classes ask for a free trial session. This way you will know if it's for you or not. You'll be surprised how great some classes are and how bad others are.
• Once baby is ready for solids, cook at home
Take the food with you in reusable pouches or jars. You'll save a fortune and you'll know exactly what you're feeding your child.
The biog
From: Ras Al Khaimah
Age: 50
Profession: Electronic engineer, worked with Etisalat for the past 20 years
Hobbies: 'Anything that involves exploration, hunting, fishing, mountaineering, the sea, hiking, scuba diving, and adventure sports'
Favourite quote: 'Life is so simple, enjoy it'
Skewed figures
In the village of Mevagissey in southwest England the housing stock has doubled in the last century while the number of residents is half the historic high. The village's Neighbourhood Development Plan states that 26% of homes are holiday retreats. Prices are high, averaging around £300,000, £50,000 more than the Cornish average of £250,000. The local average wage is £15,458.
What is the Supreme Petroleum Council?
The Abu Dhabi Supreme Petroleum Council was established in 1988 and is the highest governing body in Abu Dhabi’s oil and gas industry. The council formulates, oversees and executes the emirate’s petroleum-related policies. It also approves the allocation of capital spending across state-owned Adnoc’s upstream, downstream and midstream operations and functions as the company’s board of directors. The SPC’s mandate is also required for auctioning oil and gas concessions in Abu Dhabi and for awarding blocks to international oil companies. The council is chaired by Sheikh Khalifa, the President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi while Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, is the vice chairman.
BACK%20TO%20ALEXANDRIA
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Our family matters legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
Results
6.30pm: Maiden (TB) Dh82,500 (Dirt) 1,200m; Winner: Major Cinnamon, Fernando Jara, Mujeeb Rahman
7.05pm: Maiden (TB) Dh82,500 (D) 1,900m; Winner: Al Mureib, Fernando Jara, Ahmad bin Harmash
7.40pm: Handicap (TB) Dh102,500 (D) 2,000m; Winner: Remorse, Tadhg O’Shea, Satish Seemar
8.15pm: Conditions (TB) Dh120,000 (D) 1,600m; Winner: Meshakel, Xavier Ziani, Salem bin Ghadayer
8.50pm: Handicap (TB) Dh95,000 (D) 1,600m; Winner: Desert Peace, William Buick, Charlie Appleby
9.25pm: Handicap (TB) Dh87,500 (D) 1,400m; Winner: Sharamm, Ryan Curatlo, Satish Seemar
The specs: 2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo
The specs: 2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo
Price, base / as tested: Dh182,178
Engine: 3.7-litre V6
Power: 350hp @ 7,400rpm
Torque: 374Nm @ 5,200rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
Fuel consumption, combined: 10.5L / 100km
THE SPECS – Honda CR-V Touring AWD
Engine: 2.4-litre 4-cylinder
Power: 184hp at 6,400rpm
Torque: 244Nm at 3,900rpm
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
0-100kmh in 9.4 seconds
Top speed: 202kmh
Fuel consumption: 6.8L/100km
Price: From Dh122,900
ARGYLLE
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GIANT REVIEW
Starring: Amir El-Masry, Pierce Brosnan
Director: Athale
Rating: 4/5
Company%C2%A0profile
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Timeline
2012-2015
The company offers payments/bribes to win key contracts in the Middle East
May 2017
The UK SFO officially opens investigation into Petrofac’s use of agents, corruption, and potential bribery to secure contracts
September 2021
Petrofac pleads guilty to seven counts of failing to prevent bribery under the UK Bribery Act
October 2021
Court fines Petrofac £77 million for bribery. Former executive receives a two-year suspended sentence
December 2024
Petrofac enters into comprehensive restructuring to strengthen the financial position of the group
May 2025
The High Court of England and Wales approves the company’s restructuring plan
July 2025
The Court of Appeal issues a judgment challenging parts of the restructuring plan
August 2025
Petrofac issues a business update to execute the restructuring and confirms it will appeal the Court of Appeal decision
October 2025
Petrofac loses a major TenneT offshore wind contract worth €13 billion. Holding company files for administration in the UK. Petrofac delisted from the London Stock Exchange
November 2025
180 Petrofac employees laid off in the UAE
Need to know
When: October 17 until November 10
Cost: Entry is free but some events require prior registration
Where: Various locations including National Theatre (Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Cultural Center, Zayed University Promenade, Beach Rotana (Abu Dhabi), Vox Cinemas at Yas Mall, Sharjah Youth Center
What: The Korea Festival will feature art exhibitions, a B-boy dance show, a mini K-pop concert, traditional dance and music performances, food tastings, a beauty seminar, and more.
For more information: www.koreafestivaluae.com
