The Abu Dhabi-based startup Madari Space is reportedly planning to launch its first mission to place a data centre in low-Earth orbit in the third quarter of 2026. This pioneering proof-of-concept mission aims to demonstrate the company’s technology for storing and processing data in space.
A New Frontier for Data Centres
Madari Space is tackling the growing environmental and energy challenges of terrestrial data centres. As the demand for data processing skyrockets with the rise of AI, traditional data centres are consuming vast amounts of energy. “Going to space and placing data centres there allows us to support the growth of data being generated both on earth and space in a sustainable and secure manner,” said Madari Space founder and CEO, Shareef Al Romaithi.
A Strategic Abu Dhabi-Led Initiative
The company is working in close collaboration with key local and international bodies, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs. Al Romaithi highlighted the strategic advantage of operating out of the UAE, citing strong backing from the national space agency and other government entities, which he said will enable a commercial rollout soon after the pilot.
The First Mission and Long-Term Vision
The initial launch will serve as a proof of concept, with the company targeting earth observation operators and other space-based companies that generate data in orbit. The long-term vision is to use low-Earth orbit as a testbed to mature the technology before advancing into deeper space and tackling the emerging “cislunar economy,” which encompasses the space between the Earth and the Moon.
About Madari Space
Madari Space is an Abu Dhabi-based space technology startup founded by Shareef Al Romaithi. The company is focused on developing and deploying data centres in low-Earth orbit to provide a sustainable and secure solution for the world’s growing data needs.
Looking Ahead
This ambitious project positions the UAE and its homegrown startups at the forefront of the emerging space data economy. By developing the infrastructure to process data in orbit, Madari Space is not only offering a solution for space-based companies but is also laying the groundwork for a new, more sustainable future for data processing.
Source: AGBI
