In a historic milestone for the United Arab Emirates, Hazza Al Mansouri etched his name in the annals of space exploration as the first Emirati astronaut to journey into space. His voyage to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2019 not only demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to advancing in the field of science and technology but also ignited a new era of ambition among Arab youth. His story is more than a tale of personal achievement—it is a national symbol of vision, courage, and the UAE’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Humble Beginnings: A Dream Takes Root
Born on December 13, 1983, in Al Wathba, a quiet suburb of Abu Dhabi, Hazza Al Mansouri grew up under the wide desert sky, where he developed an early fascination with stars and planets. He would often gaze at the night sky in Liwa and wonder about the world beyond Earth. Unlike many childhood dreams that fade with age, Hazza’s passion only deepened with time.
Backed by a strong educational foundation and a thirst for knowledge, he pursued aviation studies at the Khalifa bin Zayed Air College, where he graduated in 2004 with a degree in aviation science. His academic journey was just the beginning of a career that would reach astronomical heights—literally.
From Fighter Pilot to Spacefarer
Hazza’s professional journey began in the UAE Armed Forces, where he joined as a military pilot. He trained extensively in Arizona, USA, gaining international experience and mastering the F-16 Block 60, one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets. His skills were showcased during numerous national and international airshows, and he became known for his discipline, precision, and passion for flight.
His experience in the military laid a strong foundation for his future role as an astronaut. It equipped him with the ability to remain calm under pressure, solve problems quickly, and adapt to dynamic environments—qualities that would later prove invaluable in space.
The UAE Astronaut Program: A Vision Realized
In 2017, the UAE took a major step forward by launching the UAE Astronaut Program, under the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and supported by the UAE Space Agency. This program aimed to foster homegrown talent, positioning the UAE as a regional leader in space science and exploration.
Over 4,000 Emiratis applied to be part of the program. After a rigorous selection process that included physical, psychological, and technical assessments conducted in collaboration with international space agencies, Hazza Al Mansouri was selected alongside Sultan Al Neyadi to represent the UAE in space missions. Eventually, Hazza was chosen as the prime astronaut for the UAE’s first human spaceflight mission.
The Historic Launch
On September 25, 2019, Hazza Al Mansouri boarded the Soyuz MS-15 spacecraft at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. With his launch, he became not just the first Emirati in space, but also the first Arab on the ISS and the third Arab astronaut in history, following Prince Sultan bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and Muhammed Faris of Syria.
The launch was watched by millions across the Arab world, many of whom saw it as a source of pride and inspiration. Schoolchildren across the UAE gathered in classrooms to witness the moment live, holding posters and Emirati flags. It was a unifying event that transcended science—stirring national pride and a new curiosity in space and STEM education.
Eight Days in Space
Hazza spent eight days aboard the ISS, conducting experiments, engaging in outreach, and documenting life in zero gravity. He participated in 16 scientific experiments, some of which were developed by UAE students, focusing on the effects of microgravity on biological organisms and materials.
His time on the ISS was not only scientifically significant but also culturally meaningful. He wore the UAE’s traditional attire, spoke Arabic during broadcasts, and carried cultural items like Emirati food and a photo of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan—the founding father of the UAE who had dreamed of exploring space decades ago.
Hazza’s presence on the ISS served as a powerful reminder that the ambitions of a young nation were taking flight, both literally and metaphorically.
Return and Hero’s Welcome
On October 3, 2019, Hazza safely returned to Earth, landing in Kazakhstan. His homecoming was met with a hero’s welcome. Back in the UAE, he was celebrated as a national icon, and a wave of enthusiasm followed. Schools, universities, and institutions across the UAE organized events, lectures, and educational initiatives to capitalize on the momentum of his return.
Hazza himself took part in a national tour, visiting schools and meeting students to share his experience. His message was clear: “Dream big. Work hard. Your sky has no limits.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Hazza’s journey has had a profound impact on the youth of the UAE and the broader Arab world. As a trailblazer, he showed that space is not an unattainable frontier for Arabs. His story continues to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The UAE government, recognizing the importance of this moment, has since expanded investments in educational programs, scholarships, and space-related infrastructure. The MBRSC launched initiatives such as “A Call with Space,” allowing students to interact with astronauts and ask questions about life and work in orbit.
Building on the Momentum
Hazza Al Mansouri’s mission was not a one-time achievement—it was the beginning of a larger vision. The UAE continues to push boundaries in space exploration. In 2021, the country launched the Hope Probe to Mars, becoming the first Arab nation and the fifth globally to reach the Red Planet. His colleague, Sultan Al Neyadi, followed in Hazza’s footsteps, becoming the first Arab astronaut to complete a long-duration mission aboard the ISS in 2023.
As the UAE prepares for future missions, including plans for a Moon rover and potential contributions to international space stations or lunar gateways, Hazza remains an integral part of the astronaut corps, undergoing continuous training and preparing for future missions.
Awards and Global Recognition
Hazza’s achievements have earned him global recognition. He was awarded several national honors, and his name has been immortalized in the UAE through roads, schools, and even scientific labs. In 2022, he was named a Goodwill Ambassador for Space Exploration by several international agencies.
He has also been featured in global space documentaries, given keynote speeches at international forums, and continues to represent the UAE in space-related summits and scientific panels.
The Symbol of a Nation’s Ascent
Hazza Al Mansouri’s journey is more than just a personal triumph—it is a symbol of what the UAE stands for: ambition, innovation, unity, and vision. In a short time, the nation has gone from sand dunes to space stations, and Hazza’s success proves that no dream is too distant when backed by commitment and leadership.
His story, once sparked by gazing at stars in the desert, now serves as a guiding light for countless young minds across the region. As he often says, “My journey to space may have ended, but our journey as a nation has just begun.”
Hazza Al Mansouri will forever be remembered as the man who took the hopes of a nation into the stars—and brought back a universe of possibilities.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
