In a short and emotional speech, Rayyanah Barnawi, the first Arab female Muslim astronaut, bid farewell to the crew on the International Space Station (ISS). Initially speaking in Arabic, she expressed her gratitude to UAE astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi, who is also on the ISS. Overwhelmed with tears, she paused to compose herself before continuing in English.
She softly stated, “Every story comes to an end,” and acknowledged that this moment marks the beginning of a new era for their country and region. Tears streamed down her face as she thanked everyone present on the ISS for their assistance. The crew responded with smiles and small nods of acknowledgment.
As she handed over the microphone, she managed to utter another “thanks” before being met with applause. Rayyanah Barnawi, aged 33, made history as the first Arab female Muslim astronaut to venture into space. Alongside her compatriot Ali AlQarni, aged 31, she is part of the Axiom Mission-2 (Ax-2).
