UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market Size
| Study Period | 2019 - 2029 |
| Base Year For Estimation | 2023 |
| Forecast Data Period | 2024 - 2029 |
| Historical Data Period | 2019 - 2022 |
| CAGR | 10.51 % |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
Major Players
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
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UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market Analysis
The UAE satellite imagery services market is valued at USD 0.05 billion this year. It is expected to register a CAGR of 10.51% during the forecast period to reach USD 0.08 billion by the next five years as the country continues to invest in space technology and promote innovation, satellite imagery services are expected to play a vital role in various sectors, contributing to the UAE's economic and societal development.
- The UAE is significantly making strides in the space industry. The country's government also actively participates in developing space-related technologies, which has resulted in the establishment of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and the UAE Space Agency.
- The UAE has launched several Earth observation satellites to support its satellite imagery services. Notably, the UAE's flagship satellite, KhalifaSat, was launched five years ago, making it the first satellite wholly developed in the UAE. KhalifaSat captures high-resolution images with a spatial resolution of up to 70 cm, enabling detailed monitoring of various regions and sectors.
- Satellite imagery services are crucial in the UAE's infrastructure development projects. The country's rapid urbanization and ambitious construction projects, such as the Dubai Expo 2020 and numerous megaprojects, rely on satellite imagery for efficient planning, progress monitoring, and asset management.
- In addition, the country's significant focus on advancing satellite images could act as a potential driver for market growth. For instance, MBRSC plans to focus on capturing the demand for satellite images for commercial use by deploying its MBZ-SAT, expected to be launched in the next year.
- Further, the UAE's rapid infrastructure development and focus on building smart cities create a high demand for satellite imagery services. The satellite data could help monitor construction projects, urban planning, traffic management, and sustainable development.
- However, the availability of various alternatives, such as UAVs, drones, aerial imagery, etc., could be a potential restraint for the market's growth in the country. Moreover, the government is an active International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) member involved in developing regulations on the safe use of drones in international airspace. In addition, the UAE has signed agreements with several countries to allow the use of drones for commercial purposes.
- Further, COVID-19 significantly impacted the UAE satellite imagery market. During the pre-pandemic stages, the market's supply chain got a major halt, leading to the discontinuity of services. However, in the later periods, satellite imagery services got prominence owing to the increased need for remote monitoring and sensing, especially in healthcare, in tracking the virus spread mapping.
UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market Trends
Strategic Government Initiatives and Substantial Investments to Drive the Market Growth
- The UAE government has taken proactive measures to develop its space industry, recognizing the immense potential of space technology and Earth observation capabilities. These initiatives have positioned the country as a prominent player in the global satellite imagery services market, driving advancements in satellite technology, data analytics, and remote sensing applications.
- The UAE government established the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and the UAE Space Agency to spearhead space-related activities. These specialized entities play pivotal roles in developing, operating, and promoting satellite imagery services for governmental and commercial purposes. Moreover, the UAE cabinet approved the National Space Strategy 2030, which includes 79 space science and research projects, manufacturing, assembly, testing, and commercial space services.
- The UAE government actively fosters partnerships and collaborations with international space agencies and private companies to expand its access to advanced satellite technology and data sources. These collaborations provide the UAE with valuable insights, knowledge exchange, and access to global space resources.
- Further, the IMF anticipates that the total general government expenditure will reach around USD 660.19 billion in 2028. The expenditure was recorded to be USD 402.38 billion in 2021. Such significant spending might contribute to the government's vision for space exploration, fostering partnerships, and nurturing a thriving space ecosystem, positioning the UAE as a prominent player in the global satellite imagery services market.
Urban Development and Cultural Heritage to Hold a Significant Market Share
- The UAE's vision for smart cities necessitates advanced technologies and data-driven solutions. Satellite imagery services offer valuable insights into various aspects of smart city implementation, such as traffic management, waste management, energy consumption, and environmental monitoring. Satellite data enables the integration of smart technologies and the seamless functioning of interconnected urban systems, ensuring efficient resource management.
- For instance, According to the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) Smart City Index for 2023, published by Switzerland, the capital of the UAE ranked 13th worldwide. The research also stated that Abu Dhabi's digital-first initiatives have allowed it to maintain its position as the Middle East and North Africa's brightest city.
- As urban areas expand, satellite imagery becomes indispensable for analyzing land use changes and identifying potential development areas. The imagery helps assess the impact of urban expansion on the environment, identify suitable sites for infrastructure projects, and implement effective urban planning policies.
- For instance, according to IMF data, the proportion of people living in urban areas in the United Arab Emirates was almost 87.54 percent in 2022. However, with 87.54 percent, 2022 still marked the United Arab Emirates' highest share.
- Moreover, the UAE boasts a rich cultural heritage that spans millennia, including archaeological sites of historical significance. Satellite imagery services are crucial in mapping and preserving these archaeological sites, aiding archaeologists and heritage experts in documentation and restoration efforts. High-resolution satellite imagery allows for non-invasive surveying of historical locations, safeguarding their authenticity.
UAE Satellite Imagery Services Industry Overview
The UAE satellite imagery services market is expected to be moderately consolidated. The market has limited players with significant shares, such as government agencies and a few local and global players. A few prominent players operating in the market include Airbus SE, Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), United Arab Emirates Space Agency, Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat), and Thuraya Telecommunications Company.
In June 2023, The UAE announced plans to send the imaging satellite MBZ-Sat, named after President Sheikh Mohamed, into orbit, at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in Dubai next year. A Falcon 9 rocket will lift the 800-kilogram satellite into orbit on a ride-share mission with SpaceX. As the globe is preparing to assemble in Dubai for Cop28 from November 30 to December 12, it aligns with the UAE's more significant ambition to speed up the battle against climate change.
In May 2023, The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Space Agency and Planet Labs PBC announced a partnership to develop a regional satellite-driven loss and damage atlas for climate change resilience. The initiative attempts to supply data to a chosen nation with high levels of climate risk to foster resilience, educate policy choices, and encourage finance initiatives for climate adaptation and mitigation.
UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market Leaders
Airbus SE
Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC)
United Arab Emirates Space Agency
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat)
Thuraya Telecommunications Company
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market News
- May 2023: A comprehensive space program to build national satellite remote sensing and Earth Observation (EO) capabilities within the UAE was announced by Bayanat, a prominent AI-powered geospatial solutions supplier, and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat), the UAE's prominent satellite solutions provider. The program aims to address local and global EO market business opportunities commercially.
- May 2023: EGA's CelestiAL solar aluminum will be sent into space owing to a partnership between Gulf Extrusions and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), according to Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), a UAE-based industrial firm outside of oil and gas. In Jebel Ali, the metal from EGA was turned into components for MBZ-SAT, the region's high-resolution satellite imaging system.
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS
4.1 Market Overview
4.2 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers
4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
4.2.3 Threat of New Entrants
4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes
4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
4.3 Industry Value Chain Analysis
4.4 Assessment of the Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
5.1 Market Drivers
5.1.1 Strategic Government Initiatives and Substantial Investments to Drive the Market Growth
5.1.2 Infrastructure Development and Smart Cities
5.2 Market Restraints
5.2.1 Data Processing and Analytics Capabilities
5.2.2 Data Privacy and Security Concerns
6. MARKET SEGMENTATION
6.1 By Application
6.1.1 Geospatial Data Acquisition and Mapping
6.1.2 Natural Resource Management
6.1.3 Surveillance and Security
6.1.4 Conservation and Research
6.1.5 Disaster Management
6.1.6 Intelligence
6.2 By End-User
6.2.1 Government
6.2.2 Construction
6.2.3 Transportation and Logistics
6.2.4 Military and Defense
6.2.5 Forestry and Agriculture
6.2.6 Other End-Users
7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
7.1 Company Profiles
7.1.1 Airbus SE
7.1.2 Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC)
7.1.3 United Arab Emirates Space Agency
7.1.4 Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat)
7.1.5 Thuraya Telecommunications Company
7.1.6 Global Beam Telecom (GB Telecom)
7.1.7 Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST)
7.1.8 HawkEye 360, Inc.
7.1.9 Space Imaging Middle East
7.1.10 SATPALDA International F.Z.E.
- *List Not Exhaustive
8. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
9. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
UAE Satellite Imagery Services Industry Segmentation
Satellite imagery refers to images of the Earth taken from satellites orbiting the planet. These satellites are equipped with various sensors for detecting visible light, infrared light, microwave radiation, and more to craft high-resolution images. These images combine to create visual representations of the Earth, providing new perspectives on climate, geography, and manmade structures.
The UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market is segmented by Application (Geospatial Data Acquisition and Mapping, Natural Rese Management, Surveillance and Security, Conservation and Research, Disaster Management, Intelligence) and End-User (Government Construction, Transportation and Logistics, Military and Defense, Forestry and Agriculture). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in value in USD for all the above segments.
| By Application | |
| Geospatial Data Acquisition and Mapping | |
| Natural Resource Management | |
| Surveillance and Security | |
| Conservation and Research | |
| Disaster Management | |
| Intelligence |
| By End-User | |
| Government | |
| Construction | |
| Transportation and Logistics | |
| Military and Defense | |
| Forestry and Agriculture | |
| Other End-Users |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market size?
The UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market is projected to register a CAGR of 10.51% during the forecast period (2024-2029)
Who are the key players in UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market?
Airbus SE, Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), United Arab Emirates Space Agency, Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat) and Thuraya Telecommunications Company are the major companies operating in the UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market.
What years does this UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market cover?
The report covers the UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the UAE Satellite Imagery Services Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.
UAE Satellite Imagery Services Industry Report
Statistics for the 2024 UAE Satellite Imagery Services market share, size and revenue growth rate, created by Mordor Intelligence™ Industry Reports. UAE Satellite Imagery Services analysis includes a market forecast outlook to for 2024 to 2029 and historical overview. Get a sample of this industry analysis as a free report PDF download.
