The UAE’s space economy grew 27.1% in 2024 to reach $1.5 billion (AED 5.52 billion), with commercial activity accounting for nearly half of total spending, according to the latest Space Economic Survey.
Businesses contributed $719 million, or 48% of spending, highlighting their growing role alongside government investment. The survey, produced by the UAE Space Agency and the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, also covers organisations using space-derived data, giving a broader view of the sector’s economic footprint.
The sector’s workforce is expanding as well. The number of Emiratis working in space rose 27.9% to 1,495, while employees aged between 15 and 35 reached 1,333, up 29.5%. Women represented 33.5% of the workforce, with female employment increasing 83.9%.
The figures support the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2031, which aims to place the country among the world’s 10 largest space economies, increase the sector’s economic value added by 60% and double revenues. The UAE has also launched its next survey, covering 2025 activity, with results expected in October 2027.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
