European Space Agency explores UAE lunar partnership

The European Space Agency (ESA) is exploring closer cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Its Director General, Josef Aschbacher, is travelling to Dubai and Abu Dhabi this week for talks, Reuters reported on 2 November.

Ideas under discussion include a framework agreement between the agencies, a possible lunar rover launch and the participation of an Emirati astronaut in Europe's EPIC programme for missions to the International Space Station. These remain proposals under consideration, not announced agreements or confirmed missions.

ESA aims to expand its international partnerships while strengthening its own capabilities. According to Aschbacher, Europe remains significantly dependent on US technology, particularly for transporting astronauts. Changes to joint projects with NASA further highlight the need for alternatives.

The UAE already has its own satellite programme and has sent a mission to Mars, but does not yet have an independent space-launch capability. A potential partnership could combine European technical experience with the country's growing ambitions in space.

According to Reuters, Aschbacher estimates that strengthening Europe's space autonomy will require about €10 billion over the next decade. He said European governments must first agree on their own funding before external partners' involvement can be considered. No outcome from the current talks has yet been announced.

Photo: © ESA / jonasphotto — archival photograph of a meeting between Josef Aschbacher and UAE Space Agency Director General Salem Al Qubaisi on 6 October 2026, ESA Standard Licence. The photograph is not from the November visit.

Sources: Reuters, November 2, 2026; ESA, photograph dated 6 October 2026.