Astronaut-style flight simulations, G-force conditioning and zero-gravity concepts are coming to Ras Al Khaimah as part of a new experiential tourism partnership.

Ras Al Khaimah is preparing to launch the UAE’s first commercial astronaut training initiative as part of its wider ambition to position itself as a hub for adventure and premium experiential tourism.

The project has been developed through a partnership between Action Flight Aviation and BLINC Space, with the agreement unveiled in the presence of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

The initiative will introduce astronaut-inspired experiences to the emirate, combining aviation, human performance training and simulated spaceflight environments. Planned activities include high-G flight simulations, aerobatic aviation experiences, parachute and freefall preparation, aviation handling programmes and zero-gravity training concepts.

The memorandum of understanding was signed during an event attended by international spaceflight experts and investors, including Ché Bolden, son of former Nasa Administrator Charles F. Bolden Jr., and Nasa astronaut Jeanette J. Epps.

According to the partners, the programmes are being designed as structured experiences for future private astronauts, corporate groups and travellers seeking high-adrenaline experiences linked to space exploration.

Participants will take part in training exercises that simulate the physical and psychological conditions associated with human spaceflight. These include launch and re-entry simulations, spatial disorientation exercises, high-pressure decision-making scenarios and exposure to G-force environments.

The initiative reflects the growing overlap between adventure tourism and commercial spaceflight, as destinations look for new ways to attract travellers seeking immersive and technology-led experiences.

Brent Anderson, chief commercial officer at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, says the project aligns with the emirate’s strategy to develop innovative tourism products focused on adventure, technology and premium experiences.

Mac Malkawi, founder and CEO of BLINC Space, says the partnership aims to give people direct access to astronaut preparation and human spaceflight experiences while supporting the UAE’s wider ambitions in the space sector.

Captain Wayne A. Jack, founder and CEO of Action Flight Aviation and Vertical Advanced Flight Training, says the collaboration expands the company’s aviation activities into a category that combines tourism, human performance and space-readiness training.

Under the agreement, Action Flight Aviation will oversee all airborne aviation and training operations in Ras Al Khaimah under its GCAA Air Operator Certificate and Air Training Organization approvals. BLINC Space will manage astronaut programme design, curriculum integration, international partnerships and participant engagement.

Initial programmes are expected to launch in the second half of 2026. Future phases are expected to include multi-day astronaut training packages, advanced freefall systems, fast-jet experiences and parabolic zero-gravity flight operations.

The development comes as commercial space tourism continues to influence the wider travel industry, with destinations increasingly exploring ways to bring elements of astronaut training and simulated space experiences to mainstream travellers.