The UAE has the potential to increase rainfall by up to 25% using new technologies developed from its sixth cycle of the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP). This announcement was made by Alya Al Mazrouei, the program’s director, during the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) in Abu Dhabi.

The UAEREP has officially opened its sixth cycle for submissions of innovative research proposals. Winning projects can receive grants of up to $1.5 million (Dh5.511 million) each. The program focuses on five key research areas and aims to build on the significant achievements of previous cycles to enhance rain enhancement initiatives and improve precipitation results.

Currently, the UAE employs nanotechnology-based cloud-seeding materials produced at the National Centre of Meteorology’s (NCM) Emirates Weather Enhancement Factory. This technology has proven to be highly effective, resulting in a 300% increase in the size of large water droplets compared to traditional seeding methods. Al Mazrouei highlighted the advantages of the new nanomaterial, which contains a 10% concentration of titanium dioxide, making it more effective than conventional hygroscopic materials.

In addition, the new nanomaterial requires only 250g per flare, which makes it more efficient for operations and material usage compared to traditional methods that necessitate burning flares to optimize droplet size. Al Mazrouei emphasized that this innovation is ready for practical application and has significantly improved cloud-seeding operations.

The program aims to enhance global water security by promoting best practices and collaboration in rain enhancement research. Cloud-seeding operations are conducted by a dedicated unit within the NCM’s meteorological department, ensuring that no harmful chemicals are used during these operations.

Mohammed Mahmoud, CEO and founder of the Climate and Water Initiative (CWI), explained why cloud-seeding has gained acceptance, noting the urgent need for water resources in the Middle East and North Africa region. He stated, “The world is desperate to secure its water resources to meet the growing demands of its population.”

Abdulla Al Mandous, director-general of the NCM and president of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), acknowledged the program’s remarkable progress in advancing rain enhancement technologies. He expressed gratitude to the UAE’s leadership for their continuous support, which has driven the success of the UAEREP over the past decade.