Saudi Arabia is making strides towards establishing its first nuclear power plant, as announced by Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman at the 68th Session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna. The Kingdom has completed the necessary preparations for nuclear regulatory work and is actively working towards implementing its national project for peaceful nuclear energy. The construction of the first nuclear power plant in the Kingdom is part of a larger effort to utilize nuclear energy and radiation applications for peaceful purposes, contributing to the national energy mix and sustainable development.
The Kingdom has met the essential administrative requirements related to its nuclear regulatory framework and has submitted a request to rescind the Small Quantities Protocol and implement the full Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement. This commitment to international regulations and agreements demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s dedication to its national nuclear energy project and its role in the global non-proliferation regime. The Kingdom will also host an International Conference on Nuclear Emergencies by the end of 2025, highlighting its focus on preparedness and cooperation in responding to nuclear and radiological emergencies.
In addition to hosting the upcoming international conference, Saudi Arabia is actively participating in strengthening radiological monitoring and early warning capabilities for nuclear incidents at the international level. The Kingdom is offering its national capabilities to benefit the global system of radiological monitoring and early warning, further enhancing the global response to nuclear and radiological emergencies. By collaborating with the IAEA and other states, Saudi Arabia is contributing to the development of global efforts in the field of nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.
The Kingdom’s commitment to international instruments related to nuclear fields, including nuclear security, safety, and safeguards, is evident through its cooperation with the IAEA in hosting workshops and training programs. Saudi Arabia has also benefited from the IAEA’s Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission, which has played a crucial role in assessing the national nuclear regulatory efforts and framework. The Kingdom values the technical support provided by the IAEA in building programs and developing human capacity in nuclear technology and regulatory fields, highlighting the Agency’s significant role in supporting member states.
Prince Abdulaziz emphasized the Kingdom’s gratitude for the efforts of the IAEA, under the leadership of Director General Rafael Grossi, in enhancing technical capabilities and launching initiatives to support member states. Saudi Arabia’s continued cooperation with the IAEA and other states in the nuclear field demonstrates its commitment to peaceful nuclear energy and radiation applications for social and economic development. By hosting international conferences, workshops, and training programs, the Kingdom is playing an active role in advancing global efforts towards nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.
