UAE to Host 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum in January 2025
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), through the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), will host the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) from January 28 to 30, 2025, at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the forum will be attended by His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs.
The event will convene over 50 prominent speakers, including global experts, policymakers, and researchers, to explore advancements in water security and weather modification. This year’s forum will highlight the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing weather systems, fostering global collaboration and innovation in rain enhancement science.
Marking UAEREP’s 10th Anniversary
Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of UAEREP, the forum celebrates a decade of pioneering advancements in rain enhancement science and technology. Over the past ten years, UAEREP has invested AED 82.6 million in 14 groundbreaking research projects, resulting in eight patents, with three more pending registration.
To commemorate this milestone, the forum will begin with a ceremony honouring local and international contributors who have shaped the programme’s success.
Key Initiatives and Discussions
During the forum, UAEREP will launch its sixth award cycle, focusing on five research areas:
- Optimised Seeding Materials
- Novel Cloud Formation and Rain Enhancement Systems
- Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
- Limited-Area Climate Interventions
- Advanced Models, Software, and Data
Researchers from academia, government, and industry worldwide will be invited to submit pre-proposals starting January 28 through March 20, 2025.
Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, NCM Director-General and President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), emphasized the UAE’s leadership in advancing rain enhancement technologies, stating, “We are proud of the programme’s journey over the past ten years and remain committed to advancing research efforts in support of the global quest for water security.”
The forum sessions will address critical topics, including regional and global water security, advancements in AI-driven climate research, and innovative technologies such as autonomous UAS and novel cloud-seeding materials. Students and early-career scientists will also have the opportunity to present their research through a dedicated poster session.
Driving Innovation for a Sustainable Future
Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, described the forum as a landmark event in global water sustainability. “Through knowledge transfer and multi-sector collaboration, IREF will continue to play a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding and technological innovations, ensuring a sustainable water future for all.”
By fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange, the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum aims to advance global solutions to water scarcity challenges, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leader in sustainable weather modification and water management.
