A file photo of an H-2A rocket carrying the Hope Probe, known as 'Al-Amal' in Arabic, developed by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to explore Mars, blasts off from Tanegashima Space Centre in southwestern Jap Photograph:( AFP ) Story highlights The UAE is using its space programme to develop its scientific and technological capabilities and reduce its reliance on oil Lunar exploration company iSpace will transport a United Arab Emirates rover to the moon in 2022, the Japanese company said on Wednesday, as the UAE pushes for rapid expansion in the space exploration business to diversify its economy.