Dubai ruler honours UAE astronauts

The United Arab Emirates’ National Day was a special occasion for two of the country’s outstanding astronauts. On Monday, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, presented Sultan Al Neyyadi and Hazza Al Mansoori with first-degree medals for their contributions to the space industry.

Sultan Al Neyyadi, Minister of Youth Affairs, was recognised for participating in the longest space mission in Arab history and for becoming the first Arab and Muslim to perform a spacewalk. His successful execution of scientific experiments was also praised.

Hazza Al Mansouri was awarded for being the first Emirati and Arab to reach the International Space Station. His participation in 16 scientific experiments conducted in cooperation with international partners was also recognised.

In addition, the Dubai ruler awarded Salem Al Marri, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Dr Hanan Al Suwaidi, the country’s first female and medical astronaut, and Adnan Al Rais, Assistant Director General of the Space Sector at MBRSC, with second-degree medals. Sheikh Mohammed expressed appreciation for their efforts in training astronauts and developing space missions.

According to the Federal Medals and Awards Act, the first-degree medal is awarded to astronauts participating in missions that promote science and research. Second degree medals are awarded to professionals in the space sector who have made significant contributions to astronaut training programmes.

Source: Khaleej Times