On December 2, 2024, as part of the UAE’s National Day celebrations, five Emiratis were honored with prestigious medals for their exceptional contributions to the country’s space program. The awards were presented by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, during a ceremony that celebrated the UAE’s growing achievements in space exploration.

Medal Recipients

First-Class Space Medals were awarded to:

• Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi: For his historic six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where he conducted advanced scientific experiments. Dr. Al Neyadi also became the first Arab astronaut to perform a spacewalk.
• Maj Hazza Al Mansouri: For being the first Emirati astronaut to reach the International Space Station in 2019, a mission that marked the UAE’s entry into human spaceflight.

Second-Class Space Medals were presented to:

• Salem Al Marri: Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), recognized for his visionary leadership in developing the UAE’s astronaut program and space initiatives.
• Dr. Hanan Al Suwaidi: The UAE’s first astronaut flight surgeon, celebrated for her contributions to the health and safety of the astronauts.
• Adnan Al Rais: Assistant Director General at MBRSC, acknowledged for his instrumental role in managing and overseeing the UAE’s astronaut program.

A Nation’s Aspiration

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid praised the recipients for their dedication and efforts in positioning the UAE as a leader in the global space community. He emphasized their role in inspiring Emirati youth and fostering innovation in science and technology.

This recognition reflects the UAE’s ambition to continue its journey as a prominent space-faring nation, driven by the outstanding achievements of its people.