The UAE has the potential to enhance rainfall by up to 25% with cutting-edge technologies emerging from the 6th cycle of its rain enhancement programme, a senior official announced on Tuesday. “Studies show that using new technologies can increase rainfall by 10% to 25%, depending on atmospheric conditions,” said Alya Al Mazrouei, director of the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP). “Cleaner atmospheres, advanced materials, and refined techniques significantly improve the effectiveness of operations.” Al Mazrouei shared these insights at the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF), which began in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
Innovative Research and Funding
The UAEREP has officially opened its 6th cycle for submissions of innovative research proposals. Winning projects will receive grants of up to $1.5 million (Dh5.511 million) each.
The programme invites proposals focused on five key areas:
- Optimised seeding materials
- Novel systems for cloud formation and rain enhancement
- Autonomous unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
- Localised climate interventions
- Advanced models, software, and data analysis
Nanotechnology Breakthroughs
The UAE has already achieved remarkable advancements with nanotechnology-based cloud-seeding materials, manufactured exclusively at the National Centre of Meteorology’s (NCM) Emirates Weather Enhancement Factory.
These materials have led to a 300% increase in large water droplets compared to conventional seeding techniques. Unlike traditional hygroscopic materials that require burning flares to optimise droplet size, the nanomaterials — containing 10% titanium dioxide — are dispersed as a fine powder, making them more efficient and sustainable.
“Each flare uses just 250g of the nanomaterial, which has significantly improved the effectiveness of our operations,” Al Mazrouei noted. The programme now aims to commercialise this technology, paving the way for more efficient rain enhancement initiatives.
Addressing Water Scarcity Globally
The UAE’s rain enhancement programme plays a critical role in addressing global water security by promoting sustainable methods to increase rainfall.
According to Mohammed Mahmoud, CEO of the Climate and Water Initiative (CWI), cloud-seeding is gaining traction due to the urgent need to secure water resources. “In regions like the Middle East and North Africa, water is essential for drinking, agriculture, industry, and energy. If cloud-seeding can increase water supplies, it’s a solution worth pursuing,” he said.
Today, the UAE conducts cloud-seeding operations through a dedicated unit at the NCM’s meteorological department, ensuring no harmful chemicals are used.
Global Recognition
Abdulla Al Mandous, director-general of the NCM and president of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), praised the programme’s success over the past decade.
“The UAE’s leadership in fostering international research collaboration has earned global recognition for its transformative role in addressing water scarcity and advancing sustainability,” Al Mandous said.
He also expressed gratitude to the UAE’s wise leadership, whose unwavering support has driven the programme’s achievements, which continue to shape global dialogue on water security and innovation.
