Details of new space law explained in workshop
The new law reinforces the UAE’s leading position in the international space sector ... It will be a key factor in opening the doors for investment.”
abu dhabi — Details of the UAE Space Law, which regulates country’s fast-growing space sector, have been revealed in an introductory workshop organised by the UAE Space Agency (UAESA) in Abu Dhabi.
Guidelines for space activities in the UAE were spread out across the new law’s nine chapters and 54 articles. Regulations were presented and important points were clarified in the session that was attended by key officials, executives, and experts in the space sector, government and non-government bodies, and representatives of embassies for countries that have cooperative space projects and agreements with the UAE.
“The new law reinforces the UAE’s leading position in the international space sector, where it now stands among a few nations that have such laws, particularly since it covers relatively new activities which are not yet addressed in other laws around the world,” said Dr Ahmed bin Abdulla Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills and Chairman of the UAESA.
“It will be a key factor in opening the doors for investment in the national space sector, due to its legislative and regulatory environment, which provides foreign investors with assurance ahead of starting their business and projects in the UAE.”
Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, director-general of the UAESA said the law will pave the way for more space projects, initiatives and missions.
“The agency drafted the law in collaboration with top international experts as per the best practice, as well as its consulting committee that includes the brightest minds
Dr Ahmed belhoul Al Falasi,
Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency
in the space sector, to ensure that the law meets the current and future trends for the sector,” he said.
The regulation also clarifies the mechanism for issuing space activity permits; registering space objects and vehicles; responsibility and insurance regulations for space activities; space accidents and risks regulations; the transitional period for current operators regulations; and the provisions for regulating the construction of facilities on other planets, among others.
Nasser Al Rashidi, director of space policy and regulations, gave a presentation demonstrating the stages of its implementation, as well as its most important elements.
“The law also tackles advanced, new, and modern concepts that are garnering international attention, including space-launch activities, space tourism and related activities,” he said.