As the world celebrates World Space Week (October 4–10), it’s the perfect time to spotlight the Arab women who are breaking barriers beyond our planet. From the UAE to Egypt to Saudi Arabia, these pioneers are not just making history — they’re redefining what’s possible for women in science and exploration.
Sara Sabry — First Egyptian & Arab-African Woman in Space
Sara Sabry, an Egyptian engineer and PhD researcher, became the first Egyptian and Arab-African woman in space after flying on Blue Origin’s New Shepard mission in 2022. She’s now leading her non-profit, Deep Space Initiative, which aims to make space education more accessible worldwide.
Rayyanah Barnawi — First Saudi Arabian Woman in Space
In May 2023, Rayyanah Barnawi made history as the first Saudi woman to reach space, spending nine days aboard the International Space Station on Axiom Mission 2.
A biomedical scientist, she conducted groundbreaking cancer and stem cell experiments in microgravity, and now leads “BioGravity,” a Saudi initiative pushing the frontiers of space-based life science.
Nora AlMatrooshi — The UAE’s First Female Astronaut
Nora AlMatrooshi made history in 2021 when she became the first Emirati — and the first Arab woman ever — to be chosen as an astronaut.
Representing the UAE’s ambitious space program, she’s now eligible for future missions to the International Space Station — a monumental step for Arab women in STEM and the region’s growing space ambitions.
Conclusion
From launching into orbit to leading scientific breakthroughs, these women are doing more than exploring space — they’re inspiring a new generation of Arab girls to dream bigger. As World Space Week reminds us, the sky is no longer the limit — it’s just the beginning.
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