UAE Establishes Global Leadership In Peaceful Nuclear Energy Development And International Cooperation

The UAE is solidifying its position as a global leader in developing a peaceful nuclear energy programme. This initiative adheres to the highest standards of safety, transparency, and international cooperation. As the world increasingly seeks reliable energy sources for climate neutrality, the UAE's approach stands out.

From the beginning, the UAE embraced collaboration and openness, forming strong international partnerships. Notably, it has worked closely with South Korea and the United States to advance its nuclear goals. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and CEO of Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), emphasised the UAE's success in creating a global model for integrating nuclear power into a diverse energy portfolio.

Al Hammadi highlighted that this achievement stems from visionary leadership, a clear roadmap, and a commitment to safety and transparency. The UAE has been at the forefront of international cooperation in the nuclear sector. During COP28, over 30 nations pledged to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050 to achieve climate neutrality.

In addition to nation-level commitments, nearly 120 companies and banks worldwide have vowed to support this ambitious goal. The UAE's innovative model of cooperation with the U.S. addresses modern demands and technological advancements, especially in AI and data centres.

The UAE's partnership with South Korea has been crucial for developing the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. This collaboration has expanded into new investment opportunities internationally, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). On the regulatory side, FANR maintains agreements with its Korean counterpart for joint inspections and capacity building.

With the United States, strategic agreements aim at advancing nuclear innovation and sustainability. These include an MoU with Idaho National Laboratory for hydrogen production solutions at Barakah. Additionally, partnerships with TerraPower and General Atomics focus on advanced reactors and technologies.

Regional Outreach and New Ventures

The UAE is also exploring cooperation avenues with China in nuclear plant development domestically and abroad. This includes operations, maintenance of facilities, high-temperature gas-cooled reactors, fuel supply chains, and investments.

FANR has strengthened ties with counterpart agencies through agreements enhancing nuclear safety, security, non-proliferation, and capacity building. These efforts reinforce the UAE’s commitment to global nuclear governance.

Expanding International Footprint

Highlighting its expanding international presence, ENEC signed a cooperation agreement with Romania to support an SMR project worth $275 million. The UAE continues to lead as a regional model for countries considering nuclear energy strategically.

The UAE recently concluded its first bilateral cooperation initiative in nuclear regulation with Saudi Arabia following their 2019 agreement on peaceful nuclear energy use. This partnership focuses on expertise exchange, legislative framework enhancement, and emergency preparedness strengthening.

Further extending its regional influence, the UAE signed an MoU with Egypt at COP28. This agreement outlines opportunities for cooperation in advancing peaceful nuclear energy use and knowledge exchange between both nations.

With inputs from WAM