Deputy Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Dr Driss El-Hadani
Dr Driss El-Hadani
Since September 2023, Dr. Driss El Hadani has served as Deputy Director / Senior Adviser for Space Science and Education at the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). In this role, he provides expert strategic advice and leads research initiatives in the fields of space science and education, supporting various programmes and activities implemented by UNOOSA. He also oversees the Office’s engagement with United Nations-affiliated Regional Centres for Space Science and Technology Education, ensuring alignment with global capacity-building goals. Driss has over 30 years of experience in space technology applications, remote sensing, and international space policy development. He has built extensive expertise in space diplomacy, having negotiated with international cooperation agencies and contributed to multilateral mechanisms. He previously served as Director of the Moroccan Royal Center for Remote Sensing (1998-2023) and played a pivotal role in advancing national and regional space initiatives. At the international level, Driss has been actively involved in United Nations affairs, serving as First Vice-President of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) from 2000 to 2004. He continues to represent UNOOSA in high-level meetings, negotiations, and policy discussions related to space science, education, and international cooperation. As Deputy Director, he plays a key leadership role within UNOOSA, supporting the strategic planning of the Office, coordinating activities across different sections, and representing the Director at high-level forums. He also leads capacity-building initiatives, strengthens cooperation with Member States, and oversees fundraising efforts for educational programmes. Driss holds a Master’s Degree in Physical Sciences with a focus on Applied Remote Sensing from Pierre et Marie Curie University in Paris, an Engineering Degree from the Mohammed V University in Rabat, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Management from the Higher Institute of Commerce and Business Administration in Morocco, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Law.
