UAE, Finland Sign MoU to Boost Cooperation in Meteorology and Polar Research

Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) of the United Arab Emirates and the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in meteorology, polar research, and joint scientific initiatives.

The agreement was signed in Helsinki during an official visit by an NCM delegation, led by Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director-General of NCM and President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), and Professor Petteri Taalas, Director-General of FMI. The MoU represents a key step in strengthening the growing strategic partnership between the UAE and Finland in scientific and operational meteorological cooperation.

Under the MoU, both sides will focus on exchanging expertise and best practices, particularly in polar research — a priority area for the UAE’s Emirates Polar Programme, which aims to establish Emirates Research Labs in the Arctic and Antarctica. These initiatives will contribute to the UAE’s active participation in global scientific research and climate studies.

Dr. Al Mandous described the agreement as “a significant step in strengthening the UAE’s scientific and research capabilities in meteorology and polar studies,” noting that the partnership will foster a deeper understanding of climate change and lead to innovative solutions to global environmental challenges. He added that the collaboration will open new opportunities for researchers and scientists in both countries and enhance the UAE’s role in global polar research.

The scope of cooperation includes integrating FMI’s advanced space weather services, which will expand capabilities in AI-driven data analysis, operational forecasting, and scientific applications benefiting agriculture, aviation, maritime navigation, and disaster risk management.

During the visit, Dr. Al Mandous held technical meetings with Finnish partners on establishing joint research infrastructure, exchanging scientists, and supporting field research in polar regions. Discussions also addressed WMO reform efforts, with Dr. Al Mandous emphasising the need to update international operational frameworks and ensure sustainable financial support for UN meteorological programmes.

Prof. Taalas welcomed the agreement, highlighting FMI’s appreciation for the UAE’s commitment to advancing climate and weather-related research. He said the MoU “provides a practical framework for launching joint research projects, including polar studies and space weather services, which will enhance global forecasting capabilities and deepen our understanding of climate change.”

The signing underscores the UAE and Finland’s shared commitment to scientific cooperation that supports sustainable development goals and global climate action. It also reinforces the UAE’s standing as an emerging leader in polar research and innovation on the international stage.