Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has announced a significant breakthrough for the nation’s space ambitions. The institute has successfully designed, built, and test-fired the UAE’s first liquid rocket engine, establishing a critical milestone in developing sovereign space capabilities.
A Sovereign Leap for UAE Space Tech
Liquid rocket engines are a cornerstone of modern space exploration, providing the foundational technology for reusable launch vehicles that enable sustainable and regular access to space. By mastering this complex technology, the UAE gains the ability to independently develop propulsion systems essential for a range of space applications, including orbital maneuvering, station keeping for satellites, precision spacecraft positioning, and future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Inside the UAE’s First Liquid Rocket Engine
The new engine is a 250-newton liquid rocket thruster, capable of producing the force needed to lift approximately 25 kg on Earth. Developed entirely within the UAE, this class of engine is commonly used for the propulsion and orbital adjustments of small satellites, making it a vital component for advancing space mobility. During extensive testing, the thruster demonstrated high performance, achieving a combustion efficiency of up to 94% across more than 50 successful firings, validating its design, reliability, and consistency for future in-space use.
Building a National Talent Hub
The liquid rocket program is a key part of TII’s broader mission to build the UAE’s in-space propulsion capabilities. Centered in Abu Dhabi, the initiative brings together Emirati engineers and international experts to cultivate a robust knowledge base, empower national talent, and inspire the next generation of space innovators. Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, stated, “This engine is more than a technical success – it represents the foundation of a capability that will enable the UAE to design, test, and ultimately deploy propulsion systems for a range of future missions. By developing this expertise here in Abu Dhabi, we are ensuring that sovereign space technology becomes a reality.”
The Roadmap Ahead
While the initial tests were conducted in collaboration with Airborne Engineering in the UK, TII is advancing plans to establish dedicated test infrastructure within the UAE. This will allow future cold-flow and firing tests to be conducted locally, fostering continued innovation on home soil. Dr Elias Tsoutsanis, Chief Researcher at TII’s Propulsion and Space Research Centre, commented, “With local test infrastructure underway, our focus will be on scaling propulsion systems and advancing technologies that can support future orbital and deep space missions. It’s an exciting moment – and just the first step in a much larger journey.” The long-term roadmap includes scaling up to larger engines, exploring cryogenic propellants, and supporting complex deep space missions.
About Technology Innovation Institute (TII)
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is the dedicated applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). TII is a pioneering global research and development center that focuses on applied research and new-age technology capabilities. The Institute has 9 dedicated research centers in advanced materials, autonomous robotics, cryptography, AI and digital science, directed energy, quantum, secure systems, propulsion and space, and renewable and sustainable energy. By working with exceptional talent, universities, research institutions, and industry partners from all over the world, TII connects an intellectual community and contributes to building an R&D ecosystem that reinforces the status of Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a global hub for innovation.
Source: Zawya
