UAE Accedes To Antarctic Treaty System To Strengthen Global Climate Action Initiatives

The United Arab Emirates has joined the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) through Federal Decree No.165 of 2024. This move strengthens the UAE's role in polar science globally. The Emirates Polar Programme, initiated in November, will benefit from this accession by enhancing its research capabilities in polar regions.

By joining the ATS, the UAE can now participate in Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings and propose national research projects for review. This membership also allows the UAE to establish a physical presence in Antarctica, furthering its scientific endeavours.

The ATS promotes scientific freedom and international collaboration in Antarctica. It encourages partnerships with organisations like the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) and the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), which focus on scientific interests in Antarctica.

Mariam AlMheiri, Head of International Affairs at the Presidential Court and Chair of the UAE Polar Mission Steering Committee, stated, "The Antarctic Treaty System aligns with the UAE’s vision for collective action as the key to solving the complex challenges we face as a result of climate change."

AlMheiri highlighted that joining the ATS enables new collaborations for coordinated research into polar region changes. It also supports international missions and contributes to regional protection efforts. The Emirates Polar Programme aims to establish a presence in both Antarctica and the Arctic.

Recently, two Emiratis embarked on an Antarctic mission, with another planned for the Arctic in summer 2025. The programme is equipping Emirati scientists with necessary skills for international polar missions.

Strategic Partnerships and Future Goals

The UAE's accession to ATS was formalised on 11th December 2024 via the US Department of State. This follows invitations to join initiatives like Antarctica InSync and Bulgaria's 33rd Antarctic Expedition.

The Emirates Polar Programme is guided by several entities including the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, National Centre of Meteorology, and ATRC. A Polar Research Centre at Khalifa University is part of this initiative.

AlMheiri added, "The UAE is committed to building national scientific capacity, inspiring future generations to pursue a career in science, and driving global climate action. Acceding to the ATS marks a major step forward in our efforts to address this critical global challenge and keep pace with the latest scientific developments."

With inputs from WAM