DUBAI, July 10 -- The oil-rich United Arab Emirates which has developed its first nuclear power programme and sent a man to space, now plans to join another elite club by sending its first Mars probe.

Only the United States, India, the former Soviet Union, and the European Space have successfully sent missions to orbit the Red Planet, while China is preparing to launch its first Mars rover later this month.

The UAE - a collection of sheikhdoms better known for its skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands and mega attractions - is now pushing to join their ranks in what will be a first for the Arab world.

It will mark the 50th anniversary of its unification with "Hope", an unmanned spacecraft expected to reach its target in February after being...