The search for the UAE’s Minister of Youth has ended, it was revealed on Saturday — and it is none other than national hero and astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi.
The news came in a flurry of announcements of new ministerial appointments made by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Saturday.
Sultan AlNeyadi “holds a doctorate, and served his country in the military and in the space sector”, the leader said. The astronaut boasts of several achievements, including being the first Arab to walk in space and the first Arab to spend 6 months in space.
Sheikh Mohammed says that “he is one of the closest to youth issues and the most keen on serving them and advancing them”.
AlNeyadi will continue to perform his scientific and space duties in addition to his new responsibilities.
The search for a suitable candidate was issued by the Dubai Ruler in September last year, with thousands of Emiratis responding to the call within hours.
“We want the person to be knowledgeable about the UAE, be brave and strong in representing his country, and passionate about serving the homeland,” he had said at the time.
