Registrations open for Arab world’s first IAC event

The 72^nd edition of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2021, organised by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai is inviting registrations to the event.

For the very first time, the IAC will open its doors to the global space community in the United Arab Emirates, the first Arab country to host the IAC since its establishment in 1950.

Speaking about the event, Yousuf Hamad AlShaibani, Director General, MBRSC, said: “Having the UAE host the IAC after just a decade of space activity is a matter of pride, and an attestation of our commitment to keeping up with the latest technological developments and innovations.”

Salem AlMarri, Assistant Director-General for Scientific and Technical Affairs, MBRSC and local organising committee chair for the IAC 2021, added: “The Congress will accelerate the growth of the space sector in the region and will also act as a knowledge enrichment platform for the youth in the fields of space science and technology.”

Pascale Ehrenfreund, President of International Astronautical Federation, commented: “We are delighted to host the 72nd edition of the International Astronautical Congress for the first time in the Arab World and in the UAE. We look forward to sharing ideas and networking with like-minded people and peers from the region and the world. We remain committed to the exchange of knowledge and expertise to find solutions in matters relating to space and humanity.”

The IAC draws high-level stakeholders from space agencies and institutions around the world under one roof to exchange information and ideas, share developments and advances, swap insights, strategies and rising trends in the fields of space research and exploration. The Congress will feature a line-up of thematic plenary events, highlight and keynote lectures, in-depth technical and special sessions, interactive workshops in addition to an exclusive global networking forum, social events and a space science exhibition, all tailored to encourage engagement.