International Rain Enhancement Forum 2025 Launches In Abu Dhabi To Address Global Water Security Challenges

The 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) began in Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event, organised by the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), is taking place from 28th to 30th January 2025 at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers. It brings together over 50 experts, policymakers, and researchers to discuss water security and weather modification.

H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the UAE's commitment to scientific research and innovation as essential tools for addressing current challenges and future uncertainties. In a speech delivered by Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, he stated, "In the UAE, we recognise that scientific research and innovation are fundamental to addressing present realities and navigating future challenges." This highlights the nation's focus on collaboration for global prosperity.

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H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted water security as a national priority for the UAE. He stressed its importance for societal needs and economic growth. He also noted that water security is a global challenge requiring international cooperation. The UAE is committed to investing in advanced technologies and fostering partnerships to find sustainable solutions.

The UAE aims to be a leader in scientific research related to water security through initiatives like UAEREP. H.H. Sheikh Theyab praised H.H. Sheikh Mansour's support in achieving progress in this sector, aligning with broader sustainable development goals. The nation continues developing innovative solutions for water sustainability.

Marking UAEREP's 10th anniversary, H.H. Sheikh Theyab honoured individuals and institutions contributing significantly to rain enhancement science over the past decade. Honourees included Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber and Mariam Almheiri among others, recognising their roles in advancing this field since its inception in 2015.

Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous expressed gratitude towards leadership support that has driven UAEREP's success over ten years. He said, "I would like to express our deepest gratitude to our wise leadership, whose continuous support has been the driving force behind the success of the UAEREP over the past 10 years." This underscores the programme’s impact on rain enhancement technologies.

Advancing Rain Enhancement Science

The forum coincides with UAEREP’s decade-long dedication to advancing rain enhancement science as a solution for water scarcity challenges globally. To date, AED 82.6 million has been allocated towards completing 11 research projects resulting in eight patents with three more pending registration.

Alya Al Mazrouei highlighted UAEREP's achievements under H.H. Sheikh Mansour’s guidance: "Thanks to the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan...the programme has achieved significant milestones in developing new rain enhancement technologies." These efforts have positioned the UAE as an innovation hub in this vital domain.

As preparations continue for co-hosting the UN Water Conference with Senegal in 2026, the UAE remains committed to promoting scientific innovation through initiatives like IREF. By sharing advancements with global communities, it aims at building sustainable futures while enhancing local communities' resilience against water scarcity issues worldwide.

The forum serves as a platform fostering collaboration among scientists globally focused on artificial intelligence solutions within weather enhancement fields—further solidifying its role within international dialogues surrounding sustainable resource management practices today and beyond into tomorrow’s landscapes alike!

With inputs from WAM