Abu Dhabi to Become Key Hub for Earth Observation Satellite Production

Abu Dhabi is set to become a key centre for Earth observation satellite production, following a AED 378 million agreement aimed at expanding the UAE’s capabilities in space technology. The contract, awarded to AI-powered SpaceTech company Space42 by Fada, a subsidiary of military contractor Edge, will be executed over five years to enhance geospatial data collection and analytics.

As part of the agreement, Space42 will utilise its Foresight constellation of synthetic-aperture radar satellites to provide geospatial insights to government entities. The data is expected to support urban planning, environmental monitoring and national security efforts.

Space42 was formed through the merger of Bayanat, a geospatial analytics company, and YahSat, making it one of the most valuable publicly listed space firms. Fada, launched in September as Edge’s dedicated space-focused subsidiary, has been working to establish a strong foundation for the UAE’s growing space sector.

The announcement of the contract followed plans unveiled at the Idex defense fair, where both companies introduced an initiative to build an industrial-scale Earth observation satellite manufacturing center in Abu Dhabi. The facility will produce satellites for both commercial and defense applications, handling design, procurement, deployment, and operation.

Beyond manufacturing, the project will oversee the entire lifecycle of satellite systems, including deployment, ground infrastructure, and data processing. Engineers at the facility will construct payloads, the components responsible for data collection, with the capability to produce multiple satellites, each weighing hundreds of kilograms, simultaneously.