Thabet Al Qaissiyeh is a 36-year old entrepreneur who runs a family business. Two years ago he decided to build a space observatory on the family farm in the Abu Dhabi desert. He is now working with one of the most prestigious universities in the world on a space program.

In this episode you will hear about: stargazing; Al Sadeem Space Observatory (and how to get there); Emirati women and astronomy; how the loss of a younger brother changes the path forever; experiencing 9/11 as an Emirati student in the USA; being the eldest and running a family business in the UAE when your boss is… your father; watching a country’s transformation during one’s lifetime; spirituality and the Universe.

emiratistories.com/07-thabet-the-stargazer 

About Emirati Stories
Emirati Stories is an audio podcast that gives you a chance to learn about the Emirati society and culture through a series of individual stories and personal interviews.
It is hosted and produced in Abu Dhabi by former journalist Nathalie Gillet