Dreamers Reach for the Stars

Dreamers Who Do: UAE Astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi Shares Stellar Journey

One of the most special moments at Expo 2025 Osaka was when Dr. Sultan AlNeyadi, a guest of the UAE Pavilion, captured the world's attention with his six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). AlNeyadi now represented the United Arab Emirates' international ambitions and technological progress, sharing his journey with visitors—from earthly preparations to daily life among the stars.

The UAE Pavilion's "Dreamers Who Do" program featured AlNeyadi as a key participant, showcasing how the dreams of a nation became a reality with space exploration. Visitors to the pavilion experienced firsthand how the UAE has transformed over the decades; a country once only known for its desert dunes is now recognized for sending astronauts into space, achieving breakthroughs in healthcare, and leading in sustainability.

In his presentation, AlNeyadi spoke about the scientific experiments conducted aboard the ISS, the everyday challenges of space, and the global collaborations indispensable to modern space research. A Q&A session with children, families, and enthusiasts created a unique atmosphere where visitors could inquire directly about the details of space travel.

During his visit, AlNeyadi toured the pavilion's impressive multisensory exhibition titled "Earth to Ether." This journey not only showcases the UAE's transformation but also the ordinary people shaping the country's future—from space explorers to medical innovators, sustainability pioneers to young talents.

AlNeyadi particularly emphasized the strengthening cooperation between the UAE and Japan. He stated: "In just a few years, dreams have become reality, and now we are proving ourselves on a global stage. Working together with Japan is the perfect example of what can be achieved when a unified vision guides us."

The visit coincided with Expo 2025's thematic week "Future of Community and Mobility," which explores how science and innovation are transforming societal connections and development possibilities. AlNeyadi's presence perfectly aligned with this theme, as the UAE increasingly plays a pivotal role in shaping the future, particularly in advanced technologies and space exploration.