Insights

Insight 310: Saudi Arabia’s Space Programme

Rufei Li
- July 9, 2024

Series Introduction

The Middle East Goes to Space

In recent years, Middle Eastern governments have raised their profile in the field of space activities. The UAE sent an unmanned probe into Mars orbit and, like Saudi Arabia, has sent astronauts to the International Space Station. Both countries have made space exploration a major pillar of their post-oil economy. These projects are captivating Arab populations, reminding us of the enduring fascination with space and its appeal for national pride. Space is also a critical component of military strategies in the region, as reflected in Iran’s ballistic missile programme or Israel’s air defence systems.

This volume of Insights is aimed at discussing the various dimensions of the space programmes launched by countries in the Middle East as well as the role of external players in developing these programmes.

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Having made significant strides in building its space programme in recent years, Saudi Arabia now seeks to place greater emphasis on indigenous capacity building and institutional design for its space programme, which nonetheless remains dependent on foreign technology or services. As geostrategic competition in the space domain intensifies in the Middle East, specifically in the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia’s space programme also embodies the kingdom’s goal of matching other regional players such as the UAE and Iran in terms of advanced technology.

Image Caption: Saudi Arabia’s first female astronaut, Rayyanah Barnawi (L), enters the International Space Station shortly after the hatches between the orbital outpost and the SpaceX Dragon Freedom spacecraft were opened, 22 May 2023. Photo: NASA

About the Author

*Mr Rufei Li is a master’s student with the Department of Arabic Language and Culture, Peking University, China. He studies the contemporary Middle East, with a special focus on the national transition of Saudi Arabia and geostrategic competition in the Gulf region.