The Fourth Executive Congress of Asgardia, the world’s first digital space nation, took place in Dubai on 30 October 2025, followed by a press conference at The Duke Hotel. The event united international dignitaries, members of parliament, scientists, and media representatives under the theme “Synergy for Humanity’s Cosmic Future.”
The presentation of the Asgardia Emirates Station (AES) concept, an advanced terrestrial analog of a space station, captured strong applause, symbolizing a vision where innovation, science, and sustainability converge in the UAE. The press conference featured Dr. Igor Ashurbeyli, Head of Nation; Lena De Winne, Prime Minister; and Lembit Öpik, Chairman of Parliament.
The gathering also highlighted Dubai’s growing role in driving the Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to double the emirate’s economy within a decade. Through collaboration with local universities, startups, and research institutions, the Congress paved new pathways for partnerships in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial innovation.
Founded in 2016 by scientist and philanthropist Dr. Igor Ashurbeyli, Asgardia has grown into a digital democracy of more than one million citizens from nearly 200 countries. Its three-branch governance structure includes a 150-member Parliament, an Executive led by the Prime Minister, and a Judicial Branch comprising constitutional, civil, and criminal courts.
Dr. Ashurbeyli stated, “Asgardia is dedicated to preserving human civilization, wherever it may venture. Our Fourth Executives’ Congress in Dubai not only reflected our progress toward this vision but also aligned with the UAE’s ambitions, where innovation is the cornerstone of economic and technological advancement.”
Building Humanity’s Cosmic Future: The Asgardia Emirates Station
Central to the Congress was the unveiling of the Asgardia Emirates Station (AES), the first phase of Asgardia’s long-term roadmap toward enabling the birth of the first human child in space. The four-stage plan includes the Terrestrial Ark, the Ark in Low Earth Orbit, the Lunar Ark, and the Stellar Ark.
The AES, designed as a ground-based experimental complex in the UAE, aims to simulate extended space habitation under various gravitational and environmental conditions. Its research will explore gravitational physiology, space biomedicine, and radiation safety while supporting education, innovation, and technology transfer between space science and terrestrial industries.
“The Asgardia Emirates Station is humanity’s rehearsal for life beyond Earth,” said Dr. Igor Ashurbeyli. “Our collaboration with the UAE reflects shared values where progress, innovation, and imagination shape the future of civilization.”
Lena De Winne added, “AES is more than an engineering project; it’s a bridge between science and society. We’re inviting nations, investors, and universities to participate in a mission that redefines what’s possible on and beyond our planet.”
Designed with modular flexibility and AI-assisted systems, AES will include living quarters, medical and technical units, greenhouses, and perinatal and biomedical labs. It will also host artificial gravity and radiation simulation facilities. Through these, AES will foster both public engagement and scientific exploration, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Expanding Asgardia’s Digital and Diplomatic Horizon
The Congress also introduced Asgardia’s digital ecosystem, now available on Google Play and the App Store. This integrated super-app merges social networking, communication, digital finance, and governance tools, representing a crucial step toward a fully functional digital nation.
Dr. Ashurbeyli emphasized that the platform will connect Asgardians worldwide, allowing seamless access to next-generation services and strengthening global participation in the nation’s mission.
Furthermore, Asgardia reaffirmed its Declaration of Sovereignty, adopted in 2024 on the island of Corfu, asserting its right to independent governance and international relations. The nation plans to seek formal recognition from all 193 member states of the United Nations.
In a bold move, Asgardia also declared its claim to a physical territory in Marie Byrd Land, Antarctica a neutral region under the Antarctic Treaty System. This symbolic step bridges the digital and physical worlds, representing humanity’s peaceful expansion into Earth’s last frontier.
UAE’s Role in Shaping the Future
Hosting the Congress in Dubai underscored the UAE’s strategic position as a hub for technological advancement and space exploration. The collaboration between Asgardia and UAE institutions supports the nation’s broader objectives under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE Space Strategy 2030.
By merging digital governance, space science, and sustainable development, the event marked a defining moment in humanity’s ongoing journey toward a cosmic future rooted in innovation and global cooperation.
