The UAE is set to revolutionise its rain enhancement capabilities by incorporating artificial intelligence into cloud-seeding operations, according to recent announcements from the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP).
Major Developments for 2025
10th Anniversary Initiatives
- Launch of sixth grant cycle offering $1.5m per project
- Focus on pioneering rain enhancement research
- Implementation of advanced data-driven technologies
International Rain Enhancement Forum
The seventh International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) will take place in Abu Dhabi from January 28-30, 2025, focusing on:
- Water security solutions
- AI applications in weather modification
- International collaboration opportunities
- Advanced research methodologies
- Innovative cloud seeding materials
Strategic Focus Areas
The programme centres on five key pillars:
- Research collaboration
- Technical innovation
- Capacity development
- AI integration
- Practical applications
Expert Insights
Dr Abdulla Al Mandous, Director General of the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and President of World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), emphasises:
“Achieving global water security requires continuous innovation and advanced, data-driven and AI-supported technologies.”
Research Priorities
The sixth grant cycle will concentrate on:
- Optimised seeding materials
- Novel cloud formation systems
- Autonomous unmanned aircraft
- Localised climate interventions
- Advanced data modelling
Future Implementation
Alya Al Mazroui, UAEREP Director, highlights:
“The UAEREP offers comprehensive technical assistance to help awardee projects transition from research into practical applications, including data sharing, expertise, and facility access.”
Programme Achievements
Recent milestones include:
- Fifth-cycle award recipient announcements
- Participation in Azerbaijan’s Baku Water Week
- Successful US roadshow engaging research institutions
- Enhanced international partnerships
International Collaboration
The 2025 forum will bring together:
- Global decision-makers
- Research scientists
- Investment specialists
- Water security experts
- Weather modification specialists
Additional Reading Material
- There was no UAE cloud seeding during the period of intense rain.
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