His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai interacted with Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi, who is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
"Praise be to God for your safe arrival at the International Space Station. The youth of the UAE and the Arab world follow you and wish you success in your mission. Congratulations, and may God protect you," said Sheikh Mohammed.
Al Neyadi, who arrived on the ISS last Friday, said that he and his fellow crew members were coping well with microgravity and that they had a packed schedule on their cards.
He added that a large number of experiments have been lined up, in which the UAE will be taking part.
The 41-year-old also thanked Sheikh Mohammed for keeping his promise of sending more astronauts to space after Hazza Al Mansoori went to the ISS in September 2019.
Video: @HHShkMohd held a live video call with Emirati astronaut @Astro_Alneyadi, who is currently undertaking the longest Arab space mission on the International @Space_Station. pic.twitter.com/Gmm11wasV9
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 7, 2023
Al Neyadi is the second Emirati to travel into space after Al Mansouri, and the first Arab to undertake a long-duration mission.
He will spend six months aboard the ISS.
UAE to strengthen defence, space and health sectors, says H.H. Sheikh Mohammed
UAE responds to further missile, drone threats on Sunday
16 ballistic missiles, 42 drones intercepted on Sunday
Dubai Police issue 720 certificates for weather-affected vehicles
Gargash: Political solution needs guarantees against repeat Iranian attacks
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed congratulates Dubai World Cup winner
Sheikh Abdullah discusses impact of Iranian attacks with global partners
Dubai opens 13 new cycling tracks under 162km RTA expansion plan
