The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled groundbreaking plans to establish a permanent research base in Antarctica, marking a significant expansion of its scientific endeavors. This announcement was made during the Dubai Future Forum, where Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director General of the National Centre of Meteorology, emphasized the UAE’s commitment to advancing global climate science and fostering international cooperation. The initiative, part of the UAE Polar Programme, aims to inspire a new generation of Emirati researchers and contribute to understanding the polar regions’ impact on global weather patterns. A key component of this project is the construction of a state-of-the-art research facility capable of accommodating over 50 researchers. Additionally, the UAE is considering acquiring an ice-breaker vessel to facilitate the transportation of personnel and equipment to Antarctica. This move follows the UAE’s accession as the 58th member of the Antarctic Treaty in 2024, which allows the nation to conduct research on the continent dedicated to peace and science. The UAE is already collaborating with several countries, including Bulgaria, New Zealand, India, Argentina, and Turkey, to enhance polar research efforts. Furthermore, the programme is focused on building local expertise by partnering with institutions like the National Centre of Meteorology, Khalifa University, and Abu Dhabi Polytechnic to train and send students and researchers to the poles.
UAE unveils plans for Antarctica research base, mulls acquiring ice-breaker
