The UAE space economy recorded a 27.1% rise in total spending to AED 5.52 billion, according to the latest Space Economic Survey released by the UAE Space Agency in collaboration with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC).
The 2025 survey, which measures 2024 activity, was announced at the Space Economic Survey Workshop in Dubai. It shows the commercial sector accounted for 48% of total spending, equivalent to AED 2.64 billion, pointing to the growing weight of private investment alongside sustained government support.
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, said growth in value added outpaced spending by more than two to one. He said the priority now is attracting investment, helping UAE-based companies compete internationally and developing the talent the sector needs.
The workforce also expanded. The survey counted 1,495 Emiratis working in the sector, up 27.9% from the previous survey. Young people aged 15 to 35 numbered 1,333, an increase of 29.5%. Women made up 33.5% of the workforce, with female employment rising 83.9%.
The findings support the National Space Strategy 2031, which aims to place the UAE among the world’s 10 largest space economies. Its targets include raising economic value added by 60% and doubling space economy revenues. The results are also presented to the Supreme Space Council to help shape strategic priorities.
Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the FCSC, said reliable data helps policymakers guide future priorities. She noted the survey aligns with the UAE’s Comprehensive GDP Revision Programme, which aims to measure emerging sectors more accurately.
The workshop also launched the 2026 survey, which will measure 2025 performance. Data collection runs until December 2026, with results expected in October 2027.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
