Is ESG reporting mandatory in the UAE?

For listed Public Joint Stock Companies, annual sustainability reporting is mandatory under the SCA Corporate Governance framework. For other businesses, ESG reporting is currently encouraged but not universally mandated — though requirements are expected to expand as the UAE advances its sustainability agenda.

Can a company be fined for greenwashing in the UAE?

There is no standalone greenwashing offence in UAE law. However, companies making false or misleading environmental claims may face penalties under Federal Decree-Law No. 15 of 2020 on Consumer Protection and may be subject to regulatory action by the SCA or relevant free zone authorities. Reputational damage and loss of investor confidence are also significant consequences.

What sustainability claims are considered greenwashing?

Claims such as 'carbon neutral,' 'zero emissions,' or 'sustainable' become greenwashing when they are not supported by credible, verifiable data. Vague language, selective disclosure, or the omission of material sustainability risks in corporate communications can also constitute greenwashing.

What ESG frameworks are used in the UAE?

UAE regulators and businesses commonly reference international frameworks including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB). Alignment with these frameworks strengthens the credibility and comparability of ESG disclosures.

Space Law and Satellite Regulation in the UAE

28 June 2026

The United Arab Emirates has transformed itself into one of the most ambitious space-faring nations in the region. From the successful launch of the Hope Probe to the rapid growth of commercial satellite operations, the UAE has built a legal and regulatory framework designed to support its space ambitions while meeting international obligations. For businesses looking to participate in this growing sector, understanding the licensing requirements and compliance landscape is increasingly a strategic necessity.

The UAE Space Law Framework

The cornerstone of the UAE’s space regulatory regime is Federal Decree-Law No. 46 of 2023 Regarding the Organization of the Space Sector, which replaced and modernised earlier legislation. The law is designed to create an attractive regulatory environment for investment, encourage private-sector participation, and ensure that space activities are conducted in accordance with international treaties and national interests.
The legislation regulates a broad range of activities, including:

Launching and operating space objects
Satellite communication activities
Space data management
Orbital operations and disposal of space objects
Space resource-related activities
Related support services

The law reflects the UAE’s long-term objective of positioning itself as a regional leader in commercial space activities and advanced technology industries.

Satellite Licensing and Regulatory Requirements

Satellite operations are one of the most commercially significant aspects of the UAE space sector. Under the current legal framework, entities wishing to own, operate, launch, or participate in regulated space activities must obtain authorisation from the UAE Space Agency. The licensing process is designed to ensure that operators possess the necessary technical, operational, and financial capabilities to conduct activities safely and responsibly.
In addition to UAE Space Agency approvals, satellite operators may also need to comply with spectrum and telecommunications requirements administered by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), particularly for satellite communications services.
Businesses developing satellite projects in the UAE must therefore consider both space-sector regulations and telecommunications compliance obligations in their planning.

Opportunities and Compliance Challenges

The UAE’s space legislation is designed not only to regulate but also to encourage investment. Private companies, research institutions, satellite operators, and technology developers are increasingly participating in the country’s growing space ecosystem. The regulatory framework provides legal certainty for investors while supporting innovation and commercial growth.
Operators must remain mindful of the following compliance obligations:

Obtaining all required licences and authorisations before commencing activities
Meeting operational safety standards applicable to the relevant activity
Addressing cybersecurity requirements for space systems and ground infrastructure
Managing liability exposure in line with UAE law and international space treaties
Adhering to international space law commitments applicable to UAE-licensed operators

Failure to obtain the necessary authorisations may expose businesses to regulatory action and operational restrictions. As satellite technologies become increasingly integrated into telecommunications, logistics, remote sensing, climate monitoring, and national infrastructure, regulatory compliance is expected to become an even more significant consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions: Space Law and Satellite Regulation in the UAE

What law governs space activities in the UAE?

Space activities in the UAE are primarily governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 46 of 2023 Regarding the Organization of the Space Sector. This law replaced earlier legislation and establishes the regulatory framework for launching, operating, and commercialising space activities in the UAE. Separate telecommunications regulations administered by the TDRA are also relevant for satellite communications services.

Who regulates satellite operations in the UAE?

The UAE Space Agency is the primary regulatory authority for space activities, including satellite licensing. The TDRA has regulatory jurisdiction over spectrum use and telecommunications services, which may overlap with satellite operations. Businesses typically need to engage with both regulators depending on the nature of their activities.

Do foreign companies need a UAE licence to operate satellites over the UAE?

Whether a foreign company requires UAE authorisation will depend on the nature of the activity, the type of services provided, and the jurisdiction of the satellite operator. Businesses providing satellite communications services in the UAE or conducting activities regulated under UAE space law should seek legal advice to assess their licensing obligations before commencing operations.

What are the main compliance risks for satellite operators in the UAE?

The primary compliance risks include operating without the required licences or authorisations, failing to meet operational safety standards, non-compliance with spectrum and telecommunications regulations, inadequate cybersecurity measures, and insufficient liability management. Regulatory non-compliance can result in enforcement action and the suspension or restriction of operations.

How does UAE space law interact with international space treaties?

The UAE is a party to key international space treaties, including the Outer Space Treaty, the Liability Convention, and the Registration Convention. Federal Decree-Law No. 46 of 2023 is designed to ensure that domestic space activities are conducted in compliance with these international obligations. Operators authorised under UAE law must comply with both domestic regulations and applicable international treaty commitments.

Is UAE space regulation relevant to non-space businesses?

Yes. As satellite technologies become more integrated into telecommunications, logistics, remote sensing, financial services, and national infrastructure, a broader range of businesses may find themselves subject to UAE space or telecommunications regulations. Companies using satellite connectivity, earth observation data, or satellite-based positioning services should assess whether their activities attract licensing or compliance obligations.

Practical Steps for Businesses Entering the UAE Space Sector

Companies considering space-related activities in the UAE should take the following steps:

Assess which regulatory authorities (UAE Space Agency, TDRA, or both) have jurisdiction over the planned activities
Identify all licences and authorisations required before commencing operations
Review applicable international space law obligations that may apply to UAE-licensed activities
Develop a compliance framework covering safety, cybersecurity, and liability management
Seek early legal advice to structure commercial agreements and regulatory applications correctly

The Outlook: A Maturing Regulatory Environment

The UAE continues to strengthen its position as a regional and international space leader through ambitious national programmes and progressive legislation. As commercial space activities expand and satellite technologies become increasingly essential to economic development, the legal framework governing the sector will continue to evolve.
For businesses seeking to participate in the UAE’s growing space economy, proactive engagement with the regulatory framework is a strategic advantage. Understanding licensing requirements, managing compliance risks, and structuring commercial arrangements correctly from the outset can significantly reduce operational and legal exposure.
In a sector that moves quickly, legal preparedness is not a secondary consideration — it is a prerequisite for sustainable commercial success.

How MIS Legal Can Help

At MIS Legal, we assist clients in navigating the UAE’s evolving space regulatory landscape. Our services include:

Advising on licensing and authorisation requirements under UAE space law and telecommunications regulations
Drafting and reviewing commercial agreements for satellite operations, data services, and space-sector partnerships
Advising on compliance obligations under UAE law and applicable international space treaties
Assisting with regulatory applications to the UAE Space Agency and TDRA
Providing risk management and liability advice for space and satellite activities

If your business is exploring opportunities in the UAE space sector or requires guidance on satellite regulatory compliance, contact MIS Legal for expert legal advice tailored to your needs.