The United Arab Emirates announced the launch of a polar research project as part of plans to boost the UAE’s standing among leaders in polar research and presence, during a plenary session of the UAE Government’s Annual Meetings 2024. Mariam Almheiri, Head of the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court and Chair of the “UAE Polar Mission Steering Committee”, outlined details of the project, developed over the past year through a collaboration between the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, the National Centre of Meteorology, and Khalifa University. The project incorporates input from scientists, experts, and diplomats to define key research priorities encompassing scientific, technological, and commercial applications. Initial steps include establishing the “Polar Research Center” at Khalifa University, building strategic international partnerships, signing relevant treaties, and joining international polar missions, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM). Almheiri stated that these efforts underscore the UAE’s recognition of the strategic importance and global impact of polar science. Acknowledging the vast potential of the polar regions, despite the inherent challenges, she emphasized that the project aims to equip Emirati scientists for participation in international polar missions. Almheiri announced: “Two […]