More than 3,000 Emiratis have applied so far for the second batch of the UAE Astronaut Programme.
That’s according to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), which revealed that more than a third of the applicants are women.
It has also seen registrations from people who are as young as 17.
"The applicants are from different Emirates and areas of study in the hopes of being part of the second UAE mission to space," said Salem Humaid Al Marri, Assistant Director-General of the MBRSC.
"Most of them are from Abu Dhabi, followed by Dubai and then Sharjah. As many as 31 per cent of the participants had a degree in engineering while 17 per cent were either pilots or aerospace engineers."
The deadline for applications is March 31 but officials say it could be extended considering the overwhelming response to the programme.
Only two candidates will be selected and their names are expected to be revealed in January 2021.
UAE President and Rulers offer condolences to H.H. Sheikh Mohammed
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum laid to rest
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum passes away; 10-day mourning in Dubai
Sheikh Abdullah joins Trump meeting on sidelines of UN General Assembly
UAE, partners renew push for Gaza peace plan
Sharjah Ruler approves major leisure project in Kalba
Funeral prayer for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid to be held on Tuesday
UAE detects 377 cases of fake Emiratisation in half-year review
