Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the Emirates Lunar Mission project. The project is part of the UAE's space strategy and the recently launched Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre strategy 2021-2031. The project will also help boost UAE efforts in the fields of space science and research.

The rover has been named after the late Sheikh Rashid to honour his vision to develop Dubai. The Emirati-made rover will explore areas of the Moon that have not been reached by previous missions. The project will make the UAE the fourth country in the world to participate in a moon exploration mission and the first in the Arab region.

On his twitter page, Sheikh Mohammed said: “We have launched the Emirates Lunar Mission, a 100% Emirati-made lunar rover that will land on the surface of the moon by 2024 in areas not yet reached by previous exploration missions. We named the rover "Rashid" in honor of the man who sparked Dubai's advancement”

Exploring the moon will be a part of UAE's space strategy, to build new knowledge and specialized cadres in the country, as well as improving the environment of technology, research and science in the UAE. The new moon explorer will be manufactured 100 per cent in the country by Emiratis," Sheikh Mohammed added.

His Highness affirmed that the UAE space project is huge and the country has the determination and human capital to succeed.

The lander will include 3D cameras, an external suspension structure, sensing systems, solar panels and communications system. The lander will study the dust on the Moon's surface.

Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center Hamad Obaid Al Mansouri asserted that Emirates Lunar Mission reflects UAE’s determination to complete its space strategy according to the vision of the leadership that support scientific research and celebrate achievements.

Al Mansouri said the project is a clear indicator that the UAE has the human capital, expertise, and capabilities to explore the outer space.

Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, Director General of Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center, said Emirates Lunar Mission project demonstrates the leadership’s efforts to root down the culture of innovation and excellence in our community. He added that the project also redefine the scientific seen in the Arab world and will funnel the Arab science community with new knowledge and experiences.