H.H. Sheikh Mohammed's new book launched from space

A new children’s book authored by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has been launched aboard the International Space Station.

Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi marked the occasion by reading select passages from the book titled 'The Journey From the Desert to the Stars'.

The five stories in the book form a poignant memoir of key moments in the UAE’s remarkable development journey.

The stories show how the nation's accomplishments mirror Sheikh Mohammed's conviction that perseverance is the key to success.

His Highness also offers young readers a treasure trove of wisdom - the invaluable lessons gained from diverse experiences from his childhood and youth that shaped his values and outlook on life.

In a video shared on social media, Al Neyadi provided a brief overview of one of the five stories featured in the book, ‘My First Teacher’.

"Today, I'm thrilled to share with you, from space, the launch of the second children's book by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. It features inspiring tales from His Highness's life, presented in an engaging manner, brimming with hope and ambition, and aimed at children in the UAE and worldwide.

"In one of the stories, His Highness discusses the UAE's space journey that commenced during the time of the late Sheikh Zayed. I am honoured to contribute to the realisation of this vision," said Al Neyadi.

أعلن المكتب الإعلامي لحكومة #دبي إطلاق كتاب جديد لصاحب السمو الشيخ محمد بن راشد آل مكتوم، نائب رئيس الدولة رئيس مجلس الوزراء حاكم دبي، رعاه الله، بعنوان "من الصحراء إلى الفضاء" المخصص للأطفال، حيث تم الكشف عن إطلاق الكتاب من الفضاء على متن محطة الفضاء الدولية، وفي سابقة من نوعها… pic.twitter.com/N1NvD3jWBX

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 1, 2023

The Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) partnered with Emirati talent to produce the book.

It was published by the local publishing house Al Hudhud, a member of ‘Proudly from Dubai’, a network of promising Dubai-born businesses created by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the GDMO.

The book also features illustrations by Emirati artists Ali Kashwani and Ahmed Al Mansouri.

Mona Al Marri, Director General of GDMO, said the book weaves together significant moments from Sheikh Mohammed's life with landmark events in the history of the UAE.

‘The Journey From the Desert to the Stars’ provides young readers with a deep understanding of His Highness’s values such as loyalty, belonging and service to the nation. It also illustrates how a vision can be transformed into national success and inspire generations of citizens to strive for excellence, she added.

Al Marri thanked the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi for facilitating the launch of the book from the ISS.

The five captivating stories in ‘The Journey From the Desert to the Stars’ include ‘The Northern Tent’, which narrates the circumstances surrounding the UAE's foundation in 1971.

‘My First Journey’ recounts His Highness’s very first visit to London with his father, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed, and how this experience inspired his involvement in the establishment of international airports and Emirates Airline.

In ‘The Secrets of the Sea’, His Highness speaks about his deep connection with the sea, which inspired the launch of Dubai’s ports and DP World.

Other stories include ‘First Place’, in which His Highness speaks about Burj Khalifa and the passion instilled in him by his father to be the best.

‘My First Teacher’ reflects on his profound connection with the sky and stars. His contemplation on whether Emiratis would ever venture into space became a reality with the successful launch of the UAE’s ambitious space missions, including the groundbreaking Hope Probe.

أعلن المكتب الإعلامي لحكومة دبي إطلاق كتاب جديد لصاحب السمو الشيخ محمد بن راشد آل مكتوم، نائب رئيس الدولة رئيس مجلس الوزراء حاكم دبي، رعاه الله، بعنوان "من الصحراء إلى الفضاء" المخصص للأطفال، حيث تم الكشف عن إطلاق الكتاب من الفضاء على متن محطة الفضاء الدولية، وفي سابقة من نوعها… pic.twitter.com/mNKYvUSgbL

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 1, 2023