IN PICTURES: 100 percent UAE-made satellite inspected by Dubai ruler

Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has inspected the progress of KhalifaSat, the first satellite to be fully built by Emirati engineers and set to be launched later this year.

Sheikh Mohammed was visiting the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center on Saturday.

Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan posted a photo of the visit on his Instagram page.

Sheikh Mohammed was quoted as saying by local media: “Emirati engineers are the first in the Arab world to construct a satellite without foreign assistance. This is a major achievement that signifies the high level of capabilities UAE youth have acquired in space technologies.

“The high level of expertise that Emirati scientists and engineers have developed creates a strong foundation for the future scientific and technological development of the UAE.

“We are confident that the nation's space industry sector will continue its strong growth, and emerge as a key component of our economy.

“The development of KhalifaSat is not only a source of pride for Emiratis and Arabs, but also a global achievement that will benefit humanity, and offer scientific solutions for development globally,” Sheikh Mohammed added.