Latest news with #EmiratesPolarProgramme
CairoScene
7 days ago
- Science
- CairoScene
Historic Polar Research Project Sends Emirati Scientists to Antarctica
The Emirates Polar Programme is a pioneering initiative designed to deepen understanding of Earth's polar regions and amplify Emirati contributions to global climate research. Nov 08, 2024 The Emirates Polar Programme, a pioneering initiative designed to deepen understanding of Earth's polar regions and amplify Emirati contributions to global climate research, has been launched with two Emirati meteorologists, who will embark on a journey to Antarctica as part of the UAE's first mission under this program. In support of this ambitious program, the UAE has established a state-of-the-art Polar Research Centre at Khalifa University, marking the project's initial phase. This centre will play a critical role in developing the scientific expertise required for polar exploration, fostering knowledge exchange, and facilitating collaborative research efforts. Through the centre, the UAE has also strengthened international partnerships, signed key treaties, and joined forces with global polar missions to address pressing environmental challenges. The Emirates Polar Programme represents a coordinated effort by the International Affairs Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, the National Centre of Meteorology, and Khalifa University. This interagency collaboration will drive the program's mission by defining research priorities that cover scientific, technological, and commercial applications. Furthermore, the research undertaken by Emirati scientists will contribute to insights on climate patterns, biodiversity, and the intricate environmental systems that define the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The program's next mission is scheduled for the Arctic in the summer of 2025.
Al Etihad
29-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Tajikistan and UAE united in climate push as Dushanbe hosts glacier summit
29 May 2025 15:34 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Tajikistan's Ambassador to the UAE, Ashrafjon Gulov, said that the partnership between the UAE and Tajikistan is becoming a driving force for climate and water diplomacy, as Dushanbe is preparing to host a major international summit on glacier preservation.'When it comes to the water and climate partnership, Tajikistan and the UAE have a common vision in the international arena,' Gulov told Aletihad in an said that the UAE's growing role and experience in shaping global climate policies will be a key asset in achieving the goals of the Dushanbe Glaciers Declaration. The Declaration is set to launch during the International Conference on Glaciers' Preservation, which kicked off in Dushanbe today and runs until June 1.'The UAE's enriched experience will significantly contribute to the advancement of the goals of the Dushanbe Glaciers Declaration, taking into account the country being recognised as a global partner in climate-forward policy, a host of COP28, and a significant global investor in sustainable energy.'Gulov also highlighted the Emirates Polar Programme, which supports scientific research and exploration to address global challenges, and the UAE's role as host of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), describing both as examples of the country's commitment to sustainability and shared vision has translated into a series of high-level engagements, with the Ambassador pointing out Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon's participation in COP28 in Dubai, the visit of UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna Al Dahak, to the Dushanbe Water Conference in June 2024, and the joint hosting of a High-Level Event on Glaciers' Preservation by both countries at COP29 in efforts will continue into this week's Dushanbe summit, held as part of the UN-declared International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. According to the Ambassador, the International Conference on Glaciers' Preservation seeks to bring global attention to the urgent need to protect glaciers as essential sources of water, energy, and food security.'By raising the need for glacier preservation, the Conference aims to align glacier preservation efforts with global goals for water availability, energy, and food security,' Gulov explained, adding that it will also focus on mobilising financial and technical resources to support the resilience of mountain communities and the sustainability of ecosystems conference also marks a culmination of Tajikistan's long-running advocacy to put water and climate at the centre of international diplomacy. Ambassador Gulov recalled that President Emomali Rahmon has led several initiatives adopted by the UN between 1999 and 2025, including the International Year for Fresh Water, the Water for Life Decade, the International Year of Water Cooperation, and the current Water for Sustainable Development Decade. The country has also championed the Dushanbe Water Process and launched the UN Groups of Friends on Water and Glaciers, with the goal of building lasting international momentum and coalitions around the protection of these critical home to 60% of Central Asia's water resources, is already witnessing the impact of glacial retreat. Over 1,300 of the country's 14,000 glaciers have disappeared, while the iconic Fedchenko Glacier has shrunk by 44 square kilometres. According to UNEP, more than half of Central Asia's glaciers could vanish by 2050, putting over 64 million people at said the conference will focus not only on scientific solutions like glacier monitoring, remote sensing, and engineering, but also on practical adaptation measures, including sustainable water management and terrace farming.'Sustainable agriculture can help protect mountain ecosystems. Among other practices, terrace farming, tailored to mountainous terrain, improves water management, reduces soil erosion, and preserves cultural heritage. Sustainable agriculture and water management, agri-food systems can help adapt to the climate crisis and increase livelihood resilience.'According to Gulov, concrete outcomes of the conference will include the Dushanbe Declaration on Glaciers, the Dushanbe Appeal, the launch of a Glacier Preservation Coalition, and new public-private partnerships to support climate-resilient infrastructure. The results will be carried into COP30 and the UN High-Level Political on the outcomes of the summit, the UAE and Tajikistan plan to present a united front at COP30, the Ambassador said, calling for the integration of glacier preservation into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), increased climate finance for glacier-dependent regions, and the formal recognition of cryosphere issues within UNFCCC processes.'By presenting a united front at COP30, the UAE and Tajikistan could elevate the discourse on glacier preservation, ensuring it becomes a central component of global climate action,' he added. The partnership is also looking beyond COP30. Tajikistan and the UAE are collaborating closely in preparation for the 3rd UN Water Conference, which the UAE will co-host with Senegal in 2026. Gulov said both countries intend to keep climate and water at the core of their joint diplomatic efforts.
Dubai Eye
22-02-2025
- Science
- Dubai Eye
UAE, New Zealand sign agreement on Antarctic research
The UAE and New Zealand have signed an agreement marking the beginning of a collaboration in Antarctic scientific research. The partnership aims to foster academic exchange and enhance capacity building. The memorandum focuses on collaborative projects that contribute to a deeper understanding of the Antarctic ecosystem, climate change impacts, and the preservation of the unique environment. Highlighting the significance of this strategic collaboration, Balalaa said: 'The partnership with Antarctica New Zealand represents a pivotal advancement for the Emirates Polar Programme, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to global scientific collaboration. New Zealand's world-class expertise in this field provides an unparalleled opportunity for the UAE to make meaningful contributions to critical research in Antarctica. Together, we can drive deeper scientific understanding and accelerate solutions to the pressing challenges faced by this vital continent.' Leon Grice, Chair of Antarctica New Zealand, added, 'Antarctica New Zealand is delighted to partner with the Emirates Polar Programme. This collaboration brings together the unique strengths of both nations, fostering innovation and scientific discovery in one of the most pristine and vulnerable environments on Earth. We look forward to the research and knowledge sharing that will undoubtedly result from this partnership.' The Emirates Polar Programme, established to advance the UAE's position in the field of polar science, will benefit from this partnership through enhanced research opportunities and knowledge exchange. The programme focuses on participating in international missions to Antarctica and the Arctic, supporting global climate action, and contributing to the understanding of the polar environment. Through these endeavors, the UAE demonstrates its commitment to global scientific cooperation and environmental stewardship in polar regions.
TAG 91.1
22-02-2025
- Science
- TAG 91.1
UAE, New Zealand sign agreement on Antarctic research
The UAE and New Zealand have signed an agreement marking the beginning of a collaboration in Antarctic scientific research. The partnership aims to foster academic exchange and enhance capacity building. The memorandum focuses on collaborative projects that contribute to a deeper understanding of the Antarctic ecosystem, climate change impacts, and the preservation of the unique environment. Highlighting the significance of this strategic collaboration, Balalaa said: 'The partnership with Antarctica New Zealand represents a pivotal advancement for the Emirates Polar Programme, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to global scientific collaboration. New Zealand's world-class expertise in this field provides an unparalleled opportunity for the UAE to make meaningful contributions to critical research in Antarctica. Together, we can drive deeper scientific understanding and accelerate solutions to the pressing challenges faced by this vital continent.' Leon Grice, Chair of Antarctica New Zealand, added, 'Antarctica New Zealand is delighted to partner with the Emirates Polar Programme. This collaboration brings together the unique strengths of both nations, fostering innovation and scientific discovery in one of the most pristine and vulnerable environments on Earth. We look forward to the research and knowledge sharing that will undoubtedly result from this partnership.' The Emirates Polar Programme, established to advance the UAE's position in the field of polar science, will benefit from this partnership through enhanced research opportunities and knowledge exchange. The programme focuses on participating in international missions to Antarctica and the Arctic, supporting global climate action, and contributing to the understanding of the polar environment. Through these endeavors, the UAE demonstrates its commitment to global scientific cooperation and environmental stewardship in polar regions.
Gulf Today
08-02-2025
- Science
- Gulf Today
UAE achieves landmark scientific achievement in Antarctica
The UAE welcomed the return of members of the first joint expedition with the Bulgarian Antarctic Research Institute, after successfully completing their inaugural scientific mission to Antarctica, carried out in collaboration with the Bulgarian Antarctic Research Institute. This pioneering achievement reflects the UAE's steadfast commitment to advancing global scientific research, strengthening international partnerships in the fields of meteorology and climate science, and actively contributing to global efforts to address climate challenges. The expedition saw two UAE experts, specialising in meteorology and seismic monitoring, undertake a challenging scientific journey to one of the harshest environments on Earth, where their mission included the installation of two advanced weather and seismic monitoring stations to collect vital data on atmospheric and seismic activities in Antarctica. These stations are expected to significantly enhance the accuracy of numerical models for weather forecasts and seismic monitoring, advancing the scientific understanding of environmental conditions in this critical region. Mariam Bint Mohammed Almheiri, Chair of the Emirates Polar Programme, and Chair of the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court stated, "We are immensely proud of the work conducted by our local scientists in Antarctica. Their return home marks not only a significant achievement in scientific exploration for the UAE but also highlights the power of international collaboration in advancing our shared understanding of our climate. This joint expedition reflects our commitment to science diplomacy, through the newly launched Emirates Polar Programme, and strengthens our partnerships with global research communities. We look forward to the involvement of our local scientists in future scientific endeavours in both Antarctica, and the Arctic.' The experts underwent intensive and lengthy pre-expedition medical examinations, including rigorous physical tests to ensure their full readiness to face the extreme conditions in Antarctica. Despite the freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and complete isolation, the team managed to conduct crucial research on climate change, install advanced devices to monitor atmospheric phenomena, study the effects of ice melting on sea level rise, and collect atmospheric data to examine the impact of polar climate on global weather patterns. In addition to collecting vital scientific data, the entire mission was documented using the latest virtual reality technologies, providing an interactive experience that allows viewers to follow the details of the mission, including the installation of two key stations: a weather station for measuring climate data and a seismic monitoring station for tracking seismic activities. This experience highlights the significance of the discoveries made and showcases the challenges the team faced in a harsh environment and how they overcame them, further enhancing our understanding of climate change and natural phenomena in the polar region. Dr Abdullah Al Mandous, Director-General of the National Center of Meteorology and President of the World Meteorological Organisation, and Emirates Polar Program Steering Committee member, praised the success of this mission, stating, "This scientific expedition to Antarctica marks a major step forward in enhancing the UAE's leadership in the global research fields of meteorology and climate science. Our collaboration with the Bulgarian Antarctic Research Institute reflects our commitment to enhancing international scientific cooperation and developing innovative solutions to address climate challenges. The success of our team in installing weather and seismic monitoring stations in such a remote and difficult environment demonstrates the expertise and competence of our national workforce. The data collected during this mission will greatly assist in improving the accuracy of weather forecasts and enhancing our capacity to confront climate change. I look forward to further progress in our research projects and strengthening our international scientific cooperation to support global efforts in combating climate change." The UAE's investment in such ambitious research expeditions affirms its role as a key player in global efforts to combat climate change, and its ongoing commitment to developing science-based solutions to ensure a sustainable future for future generations. This scientific expedition represents a crucial step toward achieving the UAE's strategic goals of expanding international scientific collaboration and effectively contributing to global efforts to enhance climate change adaptation. By leading such ambitious projects, and the formation of the newly launched Emirates Polar Programme, the UAE continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability and its drive to play a pivotal role in scientific research aimed at understanding and addressing climate change globally. The UAE also continues to enhance its position as a major supporter of innovation in meteorology and climate science, contributing to the development of effective solutions for environmental challenges. These efforts also reflect close coordination between local and international institutions to achieve sustainable development goals.
