An Emirati will win the chance to travel into space as part of a nationwide competition being launched by Abu Dhabi-based Aabar Investments.

The prize winner will be given a place onboard Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo when it begins running commercial trips into space. The tickets are currently worth $250,000 each.

Virgin Galactic and Aabar Investments are co-owners of Virgin Galactic – which was founded by Sir Richard Branson to make commercial space trips viable.

Virgin Galactic CEO and President, George Whitesides, said: “The specifics of the competition are being finalised but this is an ideal way for us all to give something back to the community of the UAE.

“Without the support of Aabar Investments this programme would not be where it is today.  We are on the precipice of achieving our first goal – our first flight to space – which is expected to take place later this year.”  

Abu Dhabi’s International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) are the parent company of Aabar Investments and will be involved in running the competition. - TradeArabia News Service