Qatar University signs landmark agreement with Es’hailSat for nano-satellite collaboration

Representatives from both organizations attended the signing ceremony, reaffirming their shared commitment to fostering innovation

Qatar University has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Qatar Satellite Company, Es’hailSat, during the events of the MWC conference and in a separate ceremony held on the sidelines of the conference. This collaboration comes as part of the university’s efforts to strengthen its leading role in the fields of space, innovation, and scientific research.

The agreement aimed to support the development and deployment of nanosatellite technology within Qatar University through a partnership that brings together the university’s research and academic capabilities with Es’hailSat’s leading expertise in operating and managing satellites. This collaboration represents a significant step toward strengthening Qatar’s presence in the space sector and supporting the development of national capabilities in this vital field.

On this occasion, Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at Qatar University, stated: "Our collaboration with Es’hailSat represents a strategic step that reinforces Qatar University's efforts in advancing nanosatellite technology and expanding the horizons of scientific research and innovation in the field of space. We take pride in the fact that this partnership contributes to building exceptional national capabilities and strengthens Qatar’s presence in the space sector through pioneering projects that combine industrial expertise with academic excellence."

“We are pleased to announce our collaboration with Qatar University, a strategic partnership that significantly enhances Qatar University's initiatives in advancing nanosatellite technology.” said Mr. Hamad Omar Al Mannai, Vice President- Commercial at Es’hailSat. “This partnership aims to broaden the scope of scientific research and innovation within the space sector. We take pride in contributing to the development of exceptional national capabilities and enhancing Qatar’s stature in the space industry through high-quality projects that merge industrial expertise with academic excellence. Together, we are poised to make significant strides in this vital area of research and technological advancement.”

The agreement outlined the launch of joint projects in the design, deployment, and operation of nanosatellite missions, with a focus on scientific research, technological development, and outreach in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The agreement also included the exchange of expertise, technical knowledge, and resources between both parties to ensure the success of future initiatives.

The nano-satellite development initiative at Qatar University began in 2018, encompassing multi-disciplinary student projects as well as research projects funded by the Qatar Research, Development & Innovation (QRDI) Program. Moreover, Qatar University hosts the country’s only academic satellite ground station, a key outcome of this initiative.

Representatives from both organizations attended the signing ceremony, reaffirming their shared commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing national capabilities in space sciences and technologies, and advancing the university’s research capacity in line with global developments in the space sector.