The UAE Astronaut Programme:
The UAE Astronaut Programme is one of the projects managed by MBRSC under the UAE’s National Space Programme and funded by the ICT Fund of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The Programme aims to support research and development in the ICT sector in the UAE and foster the country’s global integration.
AlMatrooshi was one of the two astronauts selected in the second batch of the UAE Astronaut Programme, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. She was chosen from over 4,000 applicants after a series of rigorous mental and physical tests in the UAE and abroad.
