The UAE has become a member of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Established in 1959, the 84-member agency governs the exploration and use of space for peace, security and development. The membership is further recognition of the space sector policies and initiatives of the UAE, which plans to send a research probe to Mars by 2021. Last month, the UAE also became the first country in the region to join the International Space Exploration Coordination Group.

UAE responds to missile and drone threats
More unsettled weather expected across UAE
UAE air defences intercept 6 missiles and 9 drones on Friday
UAE aid convoys enter Gaza with clothes for children
Rainy weather to continue across UAE until Friday night