UAE Hosts The 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum To Address Global Water Security Challenges

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) have finalised plans for the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF). This event will commence on Tuesday, 28th January. It is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and attended by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The forum aims to highlight the UAE's dedication to innovation and global cooperation in tackling water issues. Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, emphasised that the event underscores the nation's commitment to becoming a hub for weather and rain enhancement sciences. The gathering will feature experts, policymakers, and researchers discussing water security and weather modification.

Coinciding with UAEREP's 10th anniversary, the forum will also celebrate individuals and organisations that have significantly contributed to its success. Additionally, it will mark the launch of the sixth award cycle for the programme. The event is structured around five strategic pillars: Collaboration, Innovation, Capacity Building, Artificial Intelligence, and Applied Research.

Key speakers from countries including the US, UK, India, China, and Russia are set to participate. Prominent organisations like the World Meteorological Organisation and Khalifa University will also be represented. The forum's sessions will cover a wide array of topics such as AI in weather modification, data science for climate research, and new cloud seeding materials.

The IREF aims to position the UAE as a leader in advanced rain enhancement research. Sessions will explore both regional and global perspectives on water security. Discussions will include AI-based models for climate research and innovative applications in rain enhancement.

The forum will delve into technologies like unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for weather modification. It will also address non-conventional research applications in rain enhancement. By doing so, it seeks to reinforce the UAE's role as a centre of excellence in this field.

The event promises to be a significant platform for exchanging ideas on enhancing water resources through scientific innovation. It reflects a broader commitment to addressing global water challenges through collaborative efforts.

With inputs from WAM