The United Arab Emirates is significantly expanding its scientific reach with a major commitment to Antarctic research. Announced recently by Dr. Mohamed Al Mandous, head of the National Center of Meteorology, the UAE plans to establish a fully-equipped research base capable of accommodating over 50 personnel, alongside acquiring a dedicated transport vessel for expeditions to the continent. This initiative aims to bolster understanding of climate change and its specific impact on the Arabian Gulf region.
The planned base will serve as a hub for long-term investigations into climate systems, cryosphere behavior – the study of frozen parts of the Earth – and broader global environmental shifts. According to Dr. Al Mandous, the program is already underway, with UAE researchers collaborating on Bulgarian Antarctic missions and deploying preliminary monitoring equipment. This expansion represents a new chapter in the UAE’s scientific capabilities, complementing its existing endeavors in space exploration.
Understanding the Importance of Antarctic Research
The Antarctic continent and its surrounding ocean play a crucial role in global climate regulation. Its vast ice sheets contain approximately 61% of all freshwater on Earth. Changes in the Antarctic ice mass directly contribute to sea level rise, impacting coastal communities worldwide. Furthermore, the region’s unique ecosystem provides valuable insights into past climate conditions preserved in ice cores.
In contrast to the Arctic, which is primarily sea ice, Antarctica is a landmass covered by a massive ice sheet. This fundamental difference in geography influences how each region responds to warming temperatures. This also impacts the types of research that can be effectively conducted in each polar environment. Dr. Al Mandous highlighted the Antarctic’s extremely low winter temperatures, often reaching -60 to -70 degrees Celsius.
The Antarctic Treaty System
The UAE’s recent accession to the Antarctic Treaty, joining 58 other member states in 2024, signifies its formal commitment to the peaceful and scientific exploration of the continent. The treaty, originally signed in 1959, prohibits military activities, mineral mining, nuclear explosions and waste disposal on the continent. It promotes international cooperation in scientific research and prioritizes environmental protection.
Why the UAE is Investing in the Polar Regions
The UAE’s growing interest in polar research is driven by a clear understanding of the connection between changes in the polar regions and the climate of the Arabian Gulf. Rising ocean temperatures and accelerating ice melt influence global circulation patterns, ultimately affecting weather conditions in the region. The nation aims to proactively assess these risks and develop strategies for adaptation and mitigation.
The Emirates Polar Program is not simply about reacting to climate change, but rather anticipating future scenarios. Dr. Al Mandous emphasized the need to “be ahead” in understanding climate trends. This long-term vision aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and invest in advanced scientific fields, building upon its successes in space exploration and renewable energy.
Initial fieldwork has already begun, with researchers deploying instruments to gather crucial data. This includes weather stations to monitor atmospheric conditions, seismic stations to detect earth movements, and tide gauges to measure sea level changes. These early observations will provide a baseline for future research and help refine climate models.
International Collaboration and Challenges
The UAE is pursuing its Antarctic ambitions through a network of international partnerships with countries including New Zealand, India, Argentina, Bulgaria, and Türkiye. These collaborations are essential for logistical support, specialized training, and access to existing polar infrastructure. Dr. Al Mandous noted the “really good friendship” fostered through these partnerships, recognizing that effective Antarctic research requires global cooperation.
However, conducting scientific work in Antarctica presents significant challenges. The continent’s remote location, harsh weather conditions, and logistical complexities make it one of the most difficult environments for research. The program faces hurdles related to transportation costs, infrastructure development, and the need for specialized equipment and expertise.
A Focus on Developing Scientific Talent
Beyond infrastructure, the UAE is prioritizing the development of a new generation of polar researchers. Students from institutions like the National Centre of Meteorology, Khalifa University, and Abu Dhabi Polytechnic are already participating in training programs. The expansion of these programs is expected to accelerate once the UAE’s dedicated research base is fully operational.
This investment in education and training reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability in the field of climate science. The nation aims to establish itself as a significant contributor to polar research, fostering innovation and knowledge sharing within the international scientific community. The UAE’s long-term goal is to create capacity for independent and impactful polar research conducted by its own scientists.
The next phase for the Emirates Polar Program involves finalizing the design and construction of the Antarctic base, with a target completion date still under evaluation. The acquisition of a dedicated research vessel is also moving forward. Continued monitoring of logistical challenges and the evolution of international collaboration will be key to the program’s success. The scientific community will be watching closely to see how this new commitment shapes the future of Antarctic research.
