The Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) has signed a contract with Satrec Initiative, a leading provider of integrated and customized solutions for Earth observation missions, for global promotion and distribution of Dubai Sat-2's products and services to customers worldwide. The agreement further strengthens the existing cooperation between the two parties. Both organizations previously collaborated in the Dubai Sat-1 and Dubai Sat-2 projects.

Currently, they are working on the first Arab-made satellite, the Khalifa Sat, which will be launched into outer space by 2017. Emirati engineers are involved in the planning and designing of the Khalifa Sat. The agreement was signed by H.E. Yousuf Al Shaibani, Director General, Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology and Dong-Sung Park, Satrec's General Manager. Senior managers and officials from both sides were present to witness the signing.

H.E. Yousuf Al Shaibani said: "Over the past few years, EIAST has succeeded in attaining quality achievements in manufacturing satellites and building a strong presence in the local and international space industry.

"Since 2006, the organization has achieved remarkable progress primarily due to the unlimited support from the wise leadership, diligent efforts of our team, and our strategic partnerships with some of the most prominent leading research institutions in the field of space technology and satellites. Satrec Initiative has played a major role in achieving our ambitious goal of boosting the United Arab Emirates' standing in the field of space industry."

"The new agreement is particularly significant because it's considered the beginning of a new phase of constructive cooperation and higher level of effective coordination between EIAST and Satrec Initiative towards achieving technical excellence and scientific progress in the Middle East led by UAE. These efforts are in line with the vision and the high ambitions of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

"We are grateful to Satrec Initiative for its contributions to our successful campaign to promote modern knowledge and advanced scientific techniques among UAE Nationals as well as our efforts to develop the scientific and technical skills of the Emiratis. All of these lead to our goal of turning UAE into a major base for manufacturing satellites," added H.E. Al Shaibani

EIAST was established by the Dubai Government in 2006 with the goal of promoting a culture of advanced scientific research and technology innovation in Dubai and the UAE, and enhancing technology innovation and scientific skills among UAE Nationals. It is mainly involved in outer space research and development, satellite manufacturing and systems development, space imaging, and ground station services and support for other satellites.