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Draft:Space42

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Space42
Company typePublic
ADX: SPACE42
IndustrySatellite communications, Space technology, Geospatial analytics, Artificial intelligence
PredecessorAl Yah Satellite Communications, Bayanat
FoundedOctober 2024 (2024-10)
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
Karim Sabbagh (Managing Director)
Ali Al Hashemi (CEO, Space Services)
Hasan Al Hosani (CEO, Smart Solutions)
Websitespace42.ai

Space42 is a publicly listed space technology company based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It was formed in 2024 following the merger of Bayanat and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat), and is focused on satellite communications, geospatial analytics, and artificial intelligence.[1][2][3] The company is publicly traded on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange under the ticker symbol SPACE42.

History

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In April 2024, the boards of Yahsat and Bayanat approved a merger aimed at combining satellite infrastructure, AI capabilities, and geospatial services under one entity. The deal was approved by shareholders and regulators that month, resulting in the formation of Space42.[1][2]

Space42 began trading on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange on 1 October 2024.[4] Reuters noted the merger as part of a broader strategy by the UAE to consolidate its space and AI sectors.[5]

Operations

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Space42 operates in satellite communications, earth observation, data analytics, and autonomous systems. Its services support industries such as defense, urban planning, infrastructure, and environmental monitoring.

Its subsidiaries include:

  • Thuraya, a mobile satellite communications provider.
  • Mira Aerospace, focused on high-altitude platform systems (HAPS).
  • YahClick, providing broadband services in underserved regions.

In February 2024, Space42 launched the Thuraya 4 satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9. The satellite enhances L-band coverage and supports mobile and IoT connectivity.[6]

In June 2025, Space42 introduced the Thuraya Mobile Broadband Hotspot terminal, extending satellite internet access to remote and off-grid locations.[7]

Partnerships and Projects

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In May 2025, Space42 and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) announced the launch of the Middle East's first commercial synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite manufacturing facility.[8]

The company has also signed strategic agreements with:

  • ICEYE to co-develop SAR satellites in the UAE[9]
  • Viasat and Cobham Satcom to deliver broadband connectivity and direct-to-device communication platforms[10][11]

Strategic Role and Recognition

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Space42 has been profiled by global and regional media as a key player in the UAE's technology strategy. SpaceNews referred to Space42 as an "AI-powered space technology champion."[2] Reuters Breakingviews cited Space42 in the context of the Gulf's growing investment in AI infrastructure.[12]

In a feature by Zawya, the company was described as "a rising star at the intersection of space and AI."[13] SatelliteProme highlighted its geospatial intelligence platform GIQ as part of the UAE's evolving space infrastructure.[14]

Educational and Research Initiatives

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Space42 supports technical training and national skill-building programs in collaboration with the UAE Space Agency, Khalifa University, and the Ministry of Education. These programs focus on remote sensing, AI, and earth observation technologies.

Awards

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In 2025, Space42 received the "Best Connectivity Solution" award at the BroadcastPro Middle East Manufacturer Awards.[15] The company was also recognized by the Mobile Satellite Users Association as a "Company to Watch."

Alignment with UAE Strategy

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Space42 contributes to the UAE's National Space Strategy 2030[16] and supports initiatives under the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.[17]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b Sharma, Alkesh. "Space42 to drive business and tech advancement, top official says". The National.
  2. ^ a b c Rainbow, Jason (October 1, 2024). "Yahsat and Bayanat forge AI-powered space technology champion". SpaceNews.
  3. ^ "SPACE42.AD - | Stock Price & Latest News | Reuters". Reuters.
  4. ^ https://apigateway.adx.ae/adx/cdn/1.0/content/download/4386234
  5. ^ Edrees, Mohammad (26 April 2024). "Abu Dhabi index edges higher on Yahsat and Bayanat merger, Dubai falls". Reuters.
  6. ^ "SpaceX launches UAE's Thuraya-4 mobile connectivity satellite - SpaceNews".
  7. ^ "UAE's Space42's expansion of affordable satellite access with new mobile hotspot – SatNews". news.satnews.com.
  8. ^ "In partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Space42 launches Middle East's first commercial earth observation satellite manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi". www.mediaoffice.abudhabi.
  9. ^ "Space42 and ICEYE Announce Joint Venture to Bring Satellite Manufacturing to the UAE". www.iceye.com.
  10. ^ Kim, Julia (March 11, 2025). "Space42 and Viasat Partner to Develop 5G Non-Terrestrial Network Initiative". Via Satellite.
  11. ^ "Space42 and Cobham Satcom launch IP NEO to enable seamless connectivity across critical sectors". www.cobham-satcom.com.
  12. ^ "Breakingviews - Gulf's AI strategy is built on more than sand". Reuters. 13 November 2024.
  13. ^ Solutions, Zawya Knowledge. "Space42: A rising star at the intersection of space and AI". www.zawya.com.
  14. ^ "How the UAE is forging a new frontier in space technology". May 20, 2025.
  15. ^ "Winners of SatellitePro ME/BroadcastPro ME Manufacturer Awards 2025 announced". May 16, 2025.
  16. ^ "National Space Strategy 2030 | The Official Portal of the UAE Government". u.ae.
  17. ^ https://ai.gov.ae/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/UAE-National-Strategy-for-Artificial-Intelligence-2031.pdf
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