UAE at 50: How the Emirates went to space

Since the formation of the Emirates in 1971, the country has become a close friend and strategic partner of the UK.

In this miniseries, The UAE at 50, we examine how the relationship between the UAE and Britain has developed over the past 50 years.

In this episode, we take a look at the giant leaps made in the UAE’s STEM fields and how exchanges with the UK have helped to launch the young nation's space programme.

The UAE launched the Emirates Mars Mission last year and is already collaborating with other countries such as the UK on a project to build the first human settlement on the planet by 2117.

We talk to Alia Al Mansoori, an aspiring Emirati astronaut and student at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, and mechanical engineer Nora Al Matrooshi, who became the first Arab female astronaut after joining the UAE's astronaut corps.

Hosted by Layla Maghribi

Interviewed by Sarwat Nasir

Produced by Ayesha Khan and Arthur Eddyson

SPECS

Nissan 370z Nismo

Engine: 3.7-litre V6

Transmission: seven-speed automatic

Power: 363hp

Torque: 560Nm

Price: Dh184,500

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Dirham Stretcher tips for having a baby in the UAE

Selma Abdelhamid, the group's moderator, offers her guide to guide the cost of having a young family:

• Buy second hand stuff

They grow so fast. Don't get a second hand car seat though, unless you 100 per cent know it's not expired and hasn't been in an accident.

• Get a health card and vaccinate your child for free at government health centres

Ms Ma says she discovered this after spending thousands on vaccinations at private clinics.

• Join mum and baby coffee mornings provided by clinics, babysitting companies or nurseries.

Before joining baby classes ask for a free trial session. This way you will know if it's for you or not. You'll be surprised how great some classes are and how bad others are.

• Once baby is ready for solids, cook at home

Take the food with you in reusable pouches or jars. You'll save a fortune and you'll know exactly what you're feeding your child.