20-05-2025
FANR Advances Nuclear Safety and Emergency Readiness in UAE with Major 2024 Milestones
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting major strides in nuclear safety, emergency preparedness, and regulatory innovation across the United Arab Emirates.
Aligned with the national 'We the UAE 2031' vision, FANR introduced two key initiatives: the Intelligent Operational Nuclear Safety (IONS) system, designed to bolster nuclear plant safety amid climate challenges, and TAHYAA, a nationwide programme to train nearly 3,000 first responders for nuclear and radiological emergencies.
Throughout 2024, FANR reinforced its regulatory oversight at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, conducting 20 safety inspections and certifying reactor operators. All four units of the plant are now fully operational, supplying 25% of the country's electricity.
The authority also maintained rigorous control over radioactive sources and materials, completing over 250 security and safeguards inspections across medical, industrial, and transport sectors. Its Emergency Operations Centre participated in 18 national and international drills, including a joint nuclear emergency response exercise with Saudi Arabia.
In a first for the GCC, FANR's Radiation Protection Committee launched a white paper on radiological research and development, underscoring the UAE's regional leadership in radiation safety and innovation.
FANR continued to modernise its services under the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, appointed a Chief AI Officer to drive digital transformation, and prioritised Emirati talent development through training, scholarships, and leadership initiatives. Emiratis now make up 76% of its workforce, with women representing 45%.
Internationally, FANR secured key roles with the IAEA and the United Nations Scientific Committee, while also receiving accolades for employee wellbeing and internal quality.
The report reflects FANR's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology in the UAE.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
