UAE space hero gets warm welcome

On Saturday Hazzaa Al Mansoori, the UAE’s first astronaut, returned to the UAE after a successful, historic mission of eight days in space, that showed the true mettle of the Emirati people and their determination to contribute to the advancement of humanity at large (“UAE astronauts return home, receive celebratory reception,” Oct.13, Gulf Today).

Men, women and children lined a red carpet to welcome back Mansoori and Neyadi — who underwent the same training and served as a backup astronaut. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, on Saturday welcomed Hazzaa Al Mansoori, the UAE’s first astronaut, as he returned to the UAE after eight days in space.

The great spirit displayed by Hazzaa Al Mansoori and Sultan Al Neyadi throughout this journey is praiseworthy. An Emirati astronaut venturing into space has inspired the young generations in the UAE.

Hats off to Hazzaa for his brave mission.

Al Mansoori, accompanied by backup astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi, landed at the Presidential Terminal of Abu Dhabi International Airport onboard a presidential flight earlier on Saturday, and received a hero’s welcome after a successful expedition to the International Space Station.

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, welcomed the two astronauts upon arrival at the airport.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed also hailed the sincere and supportive feelings displayed by backup astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi across the expedition.

“You both are role models for the type of youth we are betting on in our steady march on the path of progress. You’re a model to be emulated by those Arab young people sincerely working for the advancement of their nations,” Sheikh Mohamed addressed the two astronauts. I really like the way Mansoori donned the Emirati dress, treated crew members to local snacks and participated in scientific experiments including a time-perception study that saw him sport a blindfold. It was amazing.

Abu Ali
By email