Empowering the NexGen of Geospatial Intelligence Through Public-Private Partnerships
Join us for an introductory webinar highlighting the latest updates and capabilities of the GIQ platform and related UAE space ecosystem initiatives supporting academic, startup, and R&D entities. The session will showcase how researchers and innovation partners can leverage Earth Observation data, AI-driven analytics, and collaborative geospatial tools to support research, innovation, and operational applications across the UAE.
The webinar will also provide a brief overview of the UAE Space Agency programs focused on innovation, capacity building, and applied research.
This awareness-focused session is organized in response to growing interest from UAE universities, startups, and research teams seeking to better understand and utilize GIQ services and capabilities within their research and development activities.
Manager of the National Space Academy at UAE Space Agency
Eng. Naser Al Rashdi is an Emirati executive with over 21 years of public sector experience in space, AI, cybersecurity, and ICT governance and policymaking. He leads the National Space Academy, serves on boards of trustees for government authorities, sits on the advisory board of MBZUAI, and is an adjunct instructor at MBRSG and PwC Academy. He has shaped more than 50 national policies and regulations, managed major strategic projects, and led multiple talent development programs, as well as international collaborations and regulatory initiatives for the UAE and the wider region.
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SULTAN MOHAMMED AL ZEIDI
GIQ Sponsorship Manager / UAE Space Data Center Oversight & Governance Manager at UAE Space Agency
Eng. Sultan Al Zeidi is part of the Space Projects Management Section at the UAE Space Agency, where he serves as Oversight & Governance Manager for two space projects: Arab Satellite 813 and GIQ.AE. Since January 2023, he has served as the UAE representative to the International Disasters Charter Executive Secretariat, bringing over a decade of experience in government-funded aerospace programs. He contributes to strategic national space initiatives with a focus on Earth Observation and space data analytics. His work spans space projects development & oversight, and cross-sector collaboration to support the UAE’s growing space ecosystem. He has contributed to national initiatives, including Arab Satellite 813, the UAE-led first Arab cooperative earth observation satellite, GIQ.AE, an AI-powered satellite imagery platform recognized with the UAE Government Future Fit Seal, and the Space Analytics and Solutions Program, which drives innovation through funding, mentorship, and public-private partnerships. With a strong foundation in systems engineering and extensive experience in project sponsorship, R&D governance, and public-private partnerships, he is dedicated to translating advanced technologies into sustainable national impact.
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Dr. Ani Shtylla
Product leader with 14+ years of experience delivering geospatial, AI, and Earth Observation products across private sector, humanitarian, and international development contexts. Currently Senior Product Owner at Space42, leading AI-driven geospatial product strategy, roadmap development, and alignment between engineering, data science, and business teams. Skilled in translating complex technical and business needs into user-focused products, with expertise in GeoAI, satellite data, product strategy, ML Ops, and data-driven platform development.
