Saudi astronauts Ali Al-Qarni and Rayyanah Barnawi have arrived back in Riyadh, marking the completion of their groundbreaking scientific mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The pair, accompanied by fellow Saudi astronauts Mariam Fardous and Ali Al-Ghamdi, received a warm welcome at King Khalid International Airport from Eng. Abdullah Al-Swaha, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Saudi Space Agency, and other officials.

The AX-2 crew, consisting of Barnawi and Al-Qarni, wrapped up their scientific endeavors in space and returned to Earth aboard the SpaceX Dragon on May 31, following a remarkable 10-day stay at the ISS. This private mission, initiated by Axiom Space, made history as Barnawi became the first Arab woman to embark on a space journey, while Al-Qarni secured his place as the second Saudi astronaut in space.

During their time in the orbiting laboratory, the AX-2 astronauts accomplished numerous achievements, including over 20 STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) outreach engagements, more than 20 research studies in microgravity, and eight media events. They also conducted 14 pioneering scientific experiments, focusing on areas such as the brain and nervous system, immune cells, and water seeding technology.

The Saudi Space Agency highlighted that the results of these experiments will contribute to the betterment of humanity and further bolster Saudi Arabia's standing in the field of space and its related sciences.