UAEREP Selects 16 Innovative Research Proposals In Its Sixth Cycle For Rain Enhancement Science

The UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), overseen by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), has shortlisted 16 innovative pre-proposals from 140 submissions in its sixth cycle. This selection was made after a thorough evaluation by an International Technical Review Committee, which met virtually on 20th and 21st May 2025. The proposals were assessed based on their alignment with core research areas, scientific merit, potential impact, proposer expertise, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Researchers who have been shortlisted are now invited to submit full proposals by 28th August 2025. The winners will be announced in January 2026 after a second merit-based review. UAEREP offers up to US$1.5 million (AED5.511 million) for each winning project proposal, distributed among up to three projects over three years, with a maximum annual amount of $550,000.

Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organisation and Director-General of NCM, stated that the UAE is leading global efforts in rain enhancement research. "Through the National Centre of Meteorology, the UAE continues to lead global efforts in advancing rain enhancement research," he said. This initiative aligns with the UAE's vision to tackle water scarcity and promote climate resilience.

Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, expressed gratitude towards the technical review committee for their dedication and expertise. She noted that the shortlisting reflects UAEREP’s strategic focus on high-quality scientific research aligned with evolving priorities. "Over the past month, the Committee’s discussions emphasised the importance of scientific merit," she added.

The sixth cycle saw a significant increase in submissions compared to the previous one, with 140 pre-proposals received from 96 research teams and 44 individual researchers across 48 countries. This marks a 47% increase from the fifth cycle. Researchers were encouraged to submit proposals aligned with five priority research areas underpinning UAEREP's roadmap.

Proposals came from prestigious institutions such as University of California (Irvine and Los Angeles), Columbia University, Princeton University, Victoria University, ETH Zurich, Stockholm University, Kyoto University, Tsinghua University, Politecnico di Milano, Khalifa University, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), American University of Sharjah, and GAL (Global Aerospace Logistics).

International Collaboration

Government entities also participated in this cycle including National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), Chinese Meteorological Administration’s Weather Modification Centre, South Korean National Institute of Meteorological Sciences, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These collaborations highlight international interest in advancing rain enhancement science.

The sixth cycle was officially launched at the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum held from 28th to 30th January 2025. This cycle aims to establish UAEREP as a global hub for rain enhancement technologies contributing to water security worldwide.

Applicants not shortlisted will receive feedback and review scores from the panel as encouragement for future submissions. This approach aims to foster continuous improvement and innovation in rain enhancement research globally.

With inputs from WAM