Zayed Higher Organization Launches a Special Episode of "Al Wathiqa" Documenting the UAE's Space Journey

On the 52nd Anniversary of the First Meeting between Sheikh Zayed and the Apollo Astronauts


Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination has released a special and exceptional episode of its cultural podcast series *“Al Wathiqa”, highlighting the historic meeting between the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace, and the Apollo space mission astronauts on July 30, 1973 — a moment that marked the initial spark of the UAE’s dream to reach space.

This episode comes on the occasion of the 52nd anniversary of that meeting, aiming to reconnect the younger generations with the legacy of the founding father and to showcase how Sheikh Zayed’s visionary words —"With knowledge, we reach the stars" — transformed into a tangible reality that led Emirati talents to reach Mars through the "Hope Probe".

Produced in partnership with the Trends Research and Advisory Center and with media support from the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, the episode is part of the “Talented Determination” initiative. The initiative presents documentary-style podcast episodes narrated by media professionals from the People of Determination community, following specialized training in media and storytelling.

The episode presents a rich narrative of the UAE’s journey in space sciences — from Sheikh Zayed’s early interest in space exploration during the 1960s and 70s, to recent achievements such as the development of the "KhalifaSat" satellite and the successful entry of the "Hope Probe" into Mars orbit on February 9, 2021.

The episode also features rare original audio clips of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, along with proud messages from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, celebrating the UAE’s historic arrival at Mars. The episode also documents the UAE’s future vision of building the first human settlement on the Red Planet by the year 2117.

Additionally, the episode sheds light on the humanitarian values of Sheikh Zayed’s philosophy, emphasizing his belief that “peace is the foundation of progress, and space belongs to all humanity.” It delivers a clear message to the youth of the nation: that no dream is impossible when driven by knowledge and willpower.

Zayed Higher Organization concluded the first season of “Al Wathiqa” with the production of 25 episodes, each lasting between 5 to 8 minutes. These episodes featured five presenters from the People of Determination community and covered national milestones, historical figures, and iconic landmarks in the UAE.

The second season of the program will see an expansion in topics and formats, as well as the training of a new generation of history narrators from the People of Determination. “Al Wathiqa” will continue to serve as a lasting platform that celebrates national heritage and passes it on to future generations through powerful and inspiring Emirati voices.