International Rain Enhancement Forum Kicks Off in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) kicked off today in Abu Dhabi. Organised by the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), from 28th to 30th January 2025 at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers, the 7th IREF is drawing the participation of over 50 high-profile speakers from across the globe, including top global experts, policymakers, and researchers to advance discussions on water security and weather modification.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director-General of the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), emphasised the importance of scientific research and innovation in addressing present realities and future challenges. He highlighted the UAE’s commitment to collaboration for global prosperity and better living conditions, while also prioritising investment in scientific research for water security and sustainability.
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan reiterated the critical importance of water security for the UAE, identifying it as a national priority and a strategic objective. He stressed the need for collective global efforts and international collaboration to tackle the challenge of water security effectively. The UAE’s active role in this domain, through investments in advanced technologies and strategic partnerships, was underscored as a driver for sustainable solutions to water challenges.
The forum marks the 10th anniversary of UAEREP, established in 2015 as a global research initiative to support scientific innovation in weather modification and rain enhancement. H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan honoured several distinguished local and international figures and institutions for their contributions to the programme’s success over the past decade.
Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous expressed gratitude to the UAE’s leadership for its support, which has been pivotal in advancing rain enhancement technologies and addressing water scarcity. He highlighted the UAE’s role in fostering international research collaboration and its recognition for transforming local communities and shaping global dialogue on water sustainability.
Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, acknowledged the achievements of the programme in developing new rain enhancement technologies and securing international patents, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global hub for innovation in this scientific field.
The 7th IREF, coinciding with UAEREP’s 10th anniversary, underscores its commitment to advancing rain enhancement science and technology as a sustainable solution to water scarcity, contributing to water and food security globally. UAEREP has allocated AED 82.6 million towards 11 innovative research projects, resulting in 8 patents, with 3 more pending. The forum serves as a platform for scientific discussions, fostering collaboration and innovation in rain enhancement science with a focus on artificial intelligence solutions for weather enhancement.