Emirati astronaut Noora AlMatrooshi is breaking barriers in space exploration, training for lunar and Mars missions while encouraging future leaders.
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| Noora AlMatrooshi, the UAE’s first female astronaut, aims to plant the UAE flag on the moon and inspire young Emiratis to pursue space careers. Image Courtesy: KT |
Dubai, UAE – February 22, 2025:
Noora AlMatrooshi, the first Emirati female astronaut, has set an ambitious goal: to be the astronaut who plants the UAE flag on the moon. Speaking at the American Academy for Girls in Dubai, AlMatrooshi emphasized her commitment to inspiring young Emiratis, particularly girls, to pursue careers in space exploration.
Reflecting on her journey, AlMatrooshi highlighted the increasing role of women in space missions, stating that "space exploration is no longer limited to men." She encouraged young girls to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the UAE’s leadership and space programme, urging them to “work hard, stay committed, and serve their country in all fields.”
Beyond her aspirations for lunar exploration, AlMatrooshi is also focused on contributing to future missions to Mars. Her training includes studying geology, which will help astronauts analyze rock samples and uncover key insights about the red planet’s history.
AlMatrooshi’s path to space started long before the UAE’s astronaut programme was established. With a background in mechanical engineering, she was inspired by her family to follow her dreams. In 2021, she was selected, along with her colleague Mohammed AlMulla, for the UAE Astronaut Programme’s second batch. Their rigorous training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center covered essential skills such as spacewalks, robotic arm operations, and leadership development.
“The impact I want to leave on girls is to motivate them to engage with the UAE space programme,” AlMatrooshi told Khaleej Times. “Our country provides them with opportunities, and they must be prepared to seize them.”
AlMatrooshi’s work aligns with the UAE’s growing role in space exploration. The nation is the fifth partner in NASA’s ‘Lunar Gateway’ programme, which aims to build a space station orbiting the moon. As part of this initiative, the UAE is responsible for developing the airlock module. Her training also involves collaborations with global space agencies, including NASA, JAXA, CSA, and ESA, in preparation for upcoming missions.
AlMatrooshi’s pioneering journey has left a lasting impact on students at the American Academy for Girls. During a recent event, three students honored her as their honorary house leader, praising her bravery and independence.
"It was truly empowering because, especially as girls, we usually get intimidated to go out there into a male-dominated world," said student Alia Saleh. Inspired by AlMatrooshi’s courage, students are now more confident in pursuing careers in diverse fields such as sustainability, education, healthcare, and engineering.
As AlMatrooshi continues to break barriers, she serves as a role model for the next generation of Emirati leaders, proving that no dream is too big and no frontier is beyond reach.