Statement by Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (Srti Park), on the Historic Hope Probe Launch

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, July 20, 2020:   The UAE's Hope Probe, the first Arab interplanetary mission, will usher in a golden age of space exploration not only for the UAE but also for the Arab world and the entire human race.
 
First announced in 2014, Hope Probe represents the collective effort of the UAE in developing a viable space programme that will put the country at the forefront of the global space community. It also proves that despite being a young nation, the UAE can achieve scientific breakthrough by prioritising an ambitious agenda in science, engineering and technology.
 
Hope Probe is a symbol of hope and a beacon of inspiration for the present and future generation of Arab youth to explore careers in science, engineering, mathematics and technology that will open up new frontiers of innovation and economicy possibility for our region."
 
We, at Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, would like to congratulate the UAE leadership, led by The President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; as well as the UAE Space Agency, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, and everyone involved at the Emirates Mars Mission for carrying the dream of the UAE to Mars and beyond.
 
By collaborating with international experts, the UAE has developed Emiratis and local talents in space exploration. This is what we are also doing at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park – we nurture and provide support to local, regional and global innovative companies.
 
With the triple helix collaboration of industry, government and academia, we take pride in cultivating an innovation ecosystem that promotes research and development and supports enterprise activities.
 
It can be recalled that only 10 months ago, the UAE has sent its first astronaut into space. And now, as the Hope Probe blasts into space in the early hours of July 20, we look at the sky and wish it all the best as we share in the collective accomplishment of the UAE and the source of pride of every Emirati. 
 
Congratulations UAE! Onwards to Mars and beyond!