Photo: Space42

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is looking to expand its capabilities in the field of Earth Observation (EO). The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) is launching what it claims to be the Middle East’s first dedicated commercial synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite manufacturing facility in partnership with Space42. Space42 announced the new facility, May. 20.

The facility, to be named Space42 Space Systems, will localize the design, assembly and testing of SAR satellites used for EO, securing independent access to space-based intelligence for Abu Dhabi. This marks the first time such capabilities will be developed locally for commercial use, enabling the UAE to produce advanced EO satellites independently and strengthening its sovereign space infrastructure.

Operated by Space42, Space42 Space Systems will oversee the full manufacturing lifecycle, from system design to launch readiness. It advances the company’s goal of building sovereign EO capabilities while anchoring a space ecosystem that can scale globally from Abu Dhabi. Through this facility, Abu Dhabi will, for the first time assemble, integrate and test commercial SAR satellites, aiming to position the emirate at the forefront of the global space economy and reinforcing its status as a centre of excellence for space innovation. The project will be implemented by Space42, established to operate the facility using best in-class technology in systems integration, advanced testing and launch preparation.

“Bringing commercial satellite manufacturing into the UAE marks a pivotal step in realizing Space42’s strategy. It enhances our sovereign capability in EO and strengthens our position as the preferred partner for premium geospatial data. Abu Dhabi is at the center of this ambition, providing the environment to test, scale and export space-based capabilities that are sovereign at origin and global in application. With ADIO as a partner, we are turning strategic intent into scalable infrastructure and cultivating Emirati talent that will shape the future of this sector,” Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Banayat Smart Solutions at Space42, said in a statement.