Abu Dhabi: The UAE has officially launched a pioneering polar research initiative aimed at enhancing the nation’s role as a global leader in polar science.
The announcement came during a plenary session at the UAE Government’s Annual Meetings 2024.
Mariam Almheiri, Head of the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court and Chair of the UAE Polar Mission Steering Committee, unveiled details of the project, which has been in development for the past year. The project is a collaboration between key government entities, including the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, the National Centre of Meteorology, and Khalifa University.
The UAE Polar Research Project focuses on advancing scientific, technological, and commercial applications related to polar regions. Initial steps include the establishment of the “Polar Research Center” at Khalifa University, encouraging international partnerships, signing key treaties, and joining global polar missions.
معالي مريم بنت محمد المهيري، رئيس مكتب الشؤون الدولية في ديوان الرئاسة تعلن عن إطلاق الإمارات برنامج وقاعدة بحثية قطبية دائمة وانضمام الإمارات إلى قائمة الدول الرائدة في مجال البحوث والتواجد القطبي.
..#الاجتماعات_السنوية_لحكومة_الإمارات pic.twitter.com/BXC29ADo9G
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Almheiri emphasized that, “Despite the challenges posed by polar environments, we see vast potential in these regions. Our project is designed to equip Emirati scientists with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to international polar missions.”
The project is already gaining momentum, with two Emirati scientists scheduled to embark on an Antarctic mission on November 7, 2024. Furthermore, a mission to the Arctic is planned for the summer of 2025, extending the UAE’s scientific presence to both poles.
In terms of international collaboration, Almheiri confirmed that the UAE Cabinet has approved signing treaties necessary for polar research and engagement. Additionally, the UAE has been invited to join the Antarctica InSync program and the 33rd Bulgarian Antarctic Expedition. Khalifa University is also set to launch several polar research projects in the coming months.