Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Saudi Space Agency (SSA) announced Sunday the launch of the Centre for Space Futures, the first of its kind within the network of Fourth Industrial Revolution Centers affiliated with the World Economic Forum. This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to solidify its leadership in the global space sector and foster growth in economic development, research, and innovation within this vital field.
The center also introduced its board of directors, comprising a distinguished group of international experts. Leading the board is Chairman of the center Dr. Mohammed Al-Tamimi, alongside Deputy Minister of Economy and Planning Eng. Ammar Naqadi, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum Jeremy Jurgens and Chief Executive Officer of the NEO Space Group Martijn Blanken.
The board also includes prominent figures such as Co-Founder and CEO of Axiom Space Kam Ghaffarian and Founder of Spaceport Sarabhai Susmita Mohanty. The exceptional panel of board members reflects the expertise and strategic vision necessary to achieve the center’s ambitious goals.
CEO of the Saudi Space Agency and Chairman of the Centre for Space Futures Dr. Mohammed bin Saud Al-Tamimi emphasized that the center represents a significant addition to the global space sector. He highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening a sustainable space economy, advancing knowledge, and fostering international partnerships. Al-Tamimi noted that the launch of the center will enhance Saudi Arabia’s role both regionally and globally, enabling humanity to responsibly explore and capitalize on the opportunities offered by space.
Managing Director of the center Eng. Mishaal Ashemimry emphasized the importance of this launch, stating that the “Centre for Space Futures” will work to enhance the growth of space research and innovation fields, in addition to developing best practices and regulatory and legislative policies. She stressed the importance of international collaboration in addressing shared challenges to achieve a sustainable space future, adding that the center will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s role in the global space industry and provide it with an additional leadership position in finding solutions to technical and regulatory challenges.
The “Centre for Space Futures” aims to establish a global platform to maximize the economic and environmental value of the space sector, develop best regulatory policies, and foster technological innovation. Additionally, it provides Saudi Arabia with access to the Fourth Industrial Revolution community and promotes close collaboration with global partners to achieve its ambitious goals in the space sector, thereby enhancing its future vision.