Abu dhabi: The UAE Space Agency announced the extension of the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) until 2028, marking a significant development for the first interplanetary exploration by an Arab nation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the extension builds on the Mars Hope Probe's performance, offering valuable insights for future deep space missions and continuing to provide unique data on the Martian atmosphere. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Space Agency Chairman, emphasized that extending the mission reflects the UAE's dedication to maximizing its space investments and contributing to the global scientific community. He highlighted that the mission serves humanity, enhances the understanding of climate change, and supports a knowledge-based future.
Dr. Al Falasi noted that the EMM - Hope Probe embodies the UAE's long-term strategic vision for the space sector as a pillar for a sustainable knowledge economy. The extension decision reflects confidence in national teams and the probe's technical readiness, reinforcing the UAE's global standing in the space sector.
Since the Hope Probe entered Mars' orbit in 2021, the UAE has seen progress in scientific outcomes and an expanding space ecosystem. The number of sector entities tripled from 2020 to 2025, with increased research and development investments. UAE universities offering aerospace and space-related degrees have doubled between 2015 and 2025, showcasing rapid expansion in national talent.
In October 2025, the Hope Probe captured images of Comet 3I/ATLAS beyond Mars, using its instruments to study the interstellar object, which passed close to Mars. Launched as a two-year mission, Hope Probe has supported operations beyond its scope, including discoveries of Mars' auroral fields and fly-bys of Mars' moon, Deimos, contributing to the understanding of Deimos' origins.
Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, UAE Space Agency Director-General, stated that the mission's extension is a testament to the probe's design and contributions to Mars science and the UAE space sector. The mission led to over 35 peer-reviewed papers and transformed the Emirates' education, science, and innovation ecosystems, creating numerous career opportunities.
Mohsen Al Awadhi, Director of Space Missions, remarked that in four years, the mission exceeded expectations, discovering new aspects of the Martian atmosphere and transforming science, technology, and education landscapes in the Emirates. The EMM and Hope Probe have been foundational to the UAE's growing space and innovation ecosystem.
The continued operations of the Emirates Mars Mission will provide experience for the upcoming Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, which aims to conduct an extensive deep space and asteroid belt survey.