Latest news with #UAEWaterSecurityStrategy2036
Al Arabiya
30-04-2025
- Climate
- Al Arabiya
UAE using AI, space tech to revolutionize, ramp-up cloud seeding operations
The UAE is revolutionizing its cloud seeding program from experimental technology into a data-driven operation using AI and space tech that forms a critical component of the nation's water security strategy, according to experts at the country's leading space technology company. In a region receiving less than 100 millimeters of rainfall annually and facing growing water scarcity concerns, the UAE is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and Earth Observation (EO) technologies to maximize the effectiveness of its weather modification efforts. 'AI and satellite imagery have turned the UAE's cloud seeding efforts from guesswork into a precise, data-driven tool for weather modification,' Dr. Prashanth Marpu, Chief Technology Officer at Bayanat Smart Solutions, which operates under Space42, the UAE's national space technology company, told Al Arabiya English. The advancements come one year after unprecedented rainfall caused significant flooding across parts of the UAE, highlighting both the potential and risks associated with weather modification technologies. The UAE has conducted cloud seeding operations for more than two decades – with as many as 300 cloud-seeding missions carried out across the country in 2024, according to the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science – National Center of Meteorology (UAEREP-NCM) – but recent technological developments have elevated these efforts to new levels of sophistication and effectiveness. 'What was once a nascent practice is now guided by predictive analytics, real-time modelling, and advanced environmental monitoring,' Marpu said. Space42 integrates synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites and high-resolution optical sensors to provide continuous monitoring of atmospheric and ground conditions. GIQ, the company's AI-powered platform, processes these inputs, which forecasts cloud behavior, wind dynamics, and terrain saturation. The system operates in three phases, explained Marpu. 'First, our Foresight SAR Constellation provides high-resolution, all-weather imaging, complemented by ongoing High Altitude Platform Stations monitoring. Second, GIQ aggregates and analyzes these data streams. Third, the platform generates actionable insights that guide authorities in deploying targeted weather modification efforts.' The UAE's intensified focus on water security comes amid rising water usage across the arid country. In 2022, the total quantity of water consumption in UAE was approximately 1.75 billion cubic meters – rising from 1.37 billion cubic meters in 2010, according to research company Statista. The UAE's Water Security Strategy 2036 has set targets for reducing water demand by 21 percent and increasing the reuse of treated water to 95 percent. 'In the UAE, where per capita water consumption ranks among the highest globally and over 80 percent of freshwater comes from desalination, water security has become a national priority,' said Marpu. 'The UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 sets out clear goals to reduce overall demand, diversify sustainable water supplies, and enhance emergency preparedness.' As part of this goal, cloud seeding has evolved from an experimental approach to what Marpu described as an operational capability driven by data, precision, and measurable impact. Learning from 2024 floods Last April's extreme rainfall event – the highest-ever recorded rainfall in more than 75 years – which caused widespread disruption across the UAE, served as both a challenge and an opportunity for the country's weather monitoring and forecasting capabilities. Space42's systems were put to the test during the 2024 floods. 'Digital Twin simulations predicted high-risk zones ahead of the storm, giving authorities time to prepare,' Marpu said. 'As the storm unfolded, SAR satellites provided real-time imagery through dense cloud cover, while GIQ processed the data instantly.' This real-time intelligence enabled emergency teams to deploy resources rapidly, prioritize evacuations, and plan supply routes once the storm passed, according to Space42. The company claims similar technology has been applied to sandstorm forecasting. 'During the Touz sandstorm in April 2025, Space42's customized dust monitoring model tracked dust emission, transport, and deposition, delivering early alerts that allowed governments to issue public health warnings and mitigate the storm's peak impact,' Marpu explained. These applications demonstrate how the same technologies being deployed for cloud seeding can be repurposed for broader climate risk management. AI-led cloud seeding missions A key advantage of AI-driven cloud seeding is the technology's ability to learn from each mission, creating a continuously improving system. 'With every seeding mission, we collect new data that strengthens future predictions and seeding plans,' said Dr. Marpu. 'Over time, this builds a smarter, more cost-effective program that can support national goals for water security and climate resilience.' This feedback loop is transforming cloud seeding from a static intervention into what Space42 describes as a 'continuously responsive system.' The current approach uses a combination of satellite data, weather forecasting, and AI to identify optimal cloud seeding windows, ensuring efforts are targeted and effective while reducing waste. 'Our AI platform, GIQ, integrates real-time satellite imagery, weather data, and ground-level information to forecast environmental conditions,' Marpu said. 'It helps identify the optimal cloud seeding windows, ensuring efforts are targeted and effective, reducing waste and improving results.' AI is expected to take on an even more prominent role in weather modification operations. 'AI is set to make weather modification smarter, faster, and more adaptive. What is emerging today will become standard practice within the next decade,' Marpu predicted. 'In the near term, AI will coordinate end-to-end cloud seeding missions, detect optimal atmospheric conditions, chart flight paths, and direct unmanned aerial vehicle-based payload releases with minimal human input.' This automation is expected to reduce response times, increase precision, and improve overall mission efficiency. The long-term vision is even more ambitious. 'Looking further ahead, AI systems will become self-learning. Drawing on live atmospheric data, seasonal climate trends, and mission histories, these models will adjust deployment strategies in real-time, modifying seeding efforts mid-flight based on evolving conditions,' said Marpu. This evolution would represent a significant advancement in weather modification technology, potentially making such operations more economically viable and environmentally responsible. Beyond cloud seeding The technologies being deployed for cloud seeding have applications that extend far beyond weather modification, according to Space42. 'Advanced Earth Observation and AI technologies open new frontiers in climate risk management,' Marpu said. 'Our combination of SAR satellite imagery, HAPS monitoring, and AI-powered analytics supports a range of climate-related applications. Beyond optimizing cloud seeding, these systems help forecast floods, monitor drought conditions, and model long-term environmental changes such as sea-level rise.' Space42 is also expanding into marine conservation through partnerships with government entities and other organizations. 'One example is our partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, OceanX, and M42 to support marine biodiversity and fisheries conservation,' said Marpu. 'By deploying Digital Twins and GIQ, we help map ocean ecosystems, monitor environmental conditions, and provide a clearer picture of marine life, supporting informed conservation strategies and sustainable marine resource planning.' While the technologies supporting cloud seeding operations have advanced significantly, measuring the precise impact of these interventions remains challenging. Research from the National Center of Meteorology has suggested that cloud seeding can increase rainfall by 15–30 percent in a clean atmosphere, and by up to 14 percent in a dusty atmosphere. However, isolating the effects of cloud seeding from natural rainfall variability requires sophisticated modeling and long-term data collection. Space42's systems aim to address this challenge by providing more comprehensive monitoring before, during, and after cloud seeding operations. 'Our system models real-time environmental conditions, pinpoints the most effective cloud seeding windows, and tracks water distribution outcomes, ensuring each intervention contributes meaningfully to national water security,' Marpu said.
Hi Dubai
24-03-2025
- Politics
- Hi Dubai
UAE Reaffirms Global Commitment to Water Security on World Water Day
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, has reaffirmed the UAE's unwavering commitment to sustainable water management and global water security in a statement commemorating World Water Day. A Call for Urgent Action Highlighting the critical nature of the global water crisis, Dr. Al Dahak stated: 'On this World Water Day, let us reflect on the profound significance of water – the very essence of life and the lifeblood of our planet.' She noted that 2.2 billion people worldwide—one in four—lack access to safe, clean water, stressing the urgent need to recommit to sustainable water practices and work toward a water-resilient future for all. Glacier Preservation: A Global Concern This year's World Water Day theme, Glacier Preservation, serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness between global ecosystems and local water security. Driven by climate change, glaciers have lost over 6,500 billion tonnes (5%) of their ice since the beginning of the century—an unsustainable rate that poses a serious risk to global water resources. Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the UAE's proactive stance, stating: 'We embrace our shared responsibility through sustainable water management. Our Net Zero 2050 Strategy is spearheading the transition to net-zero emissions, while the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 is guiding efforts to reduce overall demand for water by 21% and significantly increase water-use efficiency across all sectors.' Pioneering Global Water Initiatives Under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE is addressing global water scarcity through the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, which aims to raise awareness, accelerate innovation, and foster international collaboration to build a water-resilient future. Innovating for Sustainable Water Solutions Dr. Al Dahak also highlighted the UAE's commitment to decarbonised desalination by advancing Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology. Notably: Abu Dhabi's Al Taweelah RO plant , part of the Al Taweelah Power and Desalination Complex, is set to become the world's largest RO facility upon completion. , part of the Al Taweelah Power and Desalination Complex, is set to become the upon completion. By 2030 , 90% of Abu Dhabi's desalinated water will be produced via RO. , will be produced via RO. DEWA targets 100% desalination using clean energy and waste heat by 2030. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is also investing in agri-tech initiatives aimed at reducing agricultural water consumption, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to national water security. A Ramadan Reflection on Responsible Water Use Dr. Al Dahak called on the community to embrace responsible water consumption, especially during the holy month of Ramadan: 'Let us renew our dedication to responsible water use and amplify our efforts in global initiatives safeguarding our precious water resources. Every small step counts—and together, we can make a lasting impact on our planet's water security.' She concluded by underlining the deep link between climate and water, saying: 'A water crisis is inherently a climate crisis. Through collaboration, the UAE remains committed to protecting vital water resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.' News Source: Emirates News Agency
Zawya
21-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
Water security national priority for UAE: Suhail Al Mazrouei
The UAE is marking World Water Day tomorrow, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable water management through ambitious strategies that promote conservation and ensure a secure, sustainable future for generations to come. Every year on 22nd March, the world observes World Water Day to highlight the importance of water management and preservation in achieving sustainable development and ensuring the well-being of people. The UAE fully understands the importance of preserving water and sustaining its resources. In this context, the country has adopted strategies and initiatives to improve water resources management, support strategic water reserves, and increase the area and efficiency of rainwater harvesting, with the aim of enhancing natural groundwater resources. The UAE is adopting advanced technical solutions to utilise wastewater to irrigate crops – a solution that contributes to cutting down environmental pollution and reducing the depletion of natural water resources. Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, 'The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure plays a key role in managing water resources in the country through developing effective strategies that enhance water sustainability, keeping pace with population growth, urban development, and economic growth. World Water Day is an opportunity to reiterate our commitment to preserving this life-sustaining resource. Achieving water security requires all hands on deck and calls for raising awareness of water conservation practices. The Ministry is keen on leveraging innovative high-tech solutions to ensure optimal use of water resources.' He added, 'We work diligently to increase reliance on non-conventional water resources to produce fresh water. Non-conventional water resources, including desalinated seawater and treated wastewater, contribute 53 percent of our water supply. The UAE mostly relies on wastewater treatment plants to meet its irrigation needs. There are over 160 wastewater treatment plants. They have a total capacity of over 3 million cubic meters a day and reuse 73 percent of treated wastewater to irrigate landscapes in our cities.' The Minister added, 'In the UAE, water is one of the most important national priority issues, given our geographical location in an arid area, the scarcity of our natural water resources, and the high demand for water for development purposes. The UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 aims to ensure sustainable access to water during both normal and emergency conditions. The overall objectives of the strategy are to reduce total demand for water resources by 21 percent, reduce the water scarcity index by three degrees, and increase the reuse of treated water to 95 percent by 2036. 'In addition, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure joined forces with its partners to launch the first hydrogeological map and geo-database of the UAE, a milestone achievement in documenting and managing water sources with the goal of sustaining and conserving water. The Ministry also launched the National Energy and Water Demand Side Management Program 2050, which seeks to save energy and water resources and improve the environmental performance of energy and water plants.' The Minister further noted that the UAE is investing in modern technologies to enhance water security, such as rainwater harvesting, reusing wastewater for irrigation, and using clean energy desalination technologies. This contributes to addressing climate change challenges and reducing the depletion of natural resources. He also noted that the country aims to improve the operational efficiency of desalination plants by using renewable energy to reduce the carbon footprint resulting from desalination processes. Al Mazrouei pointed out that the UAE is committed to enhancing the sustainability of its water resources through innovation and international cooperation. The country is adopting ambitious strategies to conserve water and ensure a secure and sustainable water future for generations to come. A United Nations report indicated that the UAE has achieved an average of 100 percent in providing safe drinking water and sanitation services, and 82 percent in integrated water resources management, which is one of the best results regionally. The UAE seeks to improve this result in the coming years, by ensuring alignment and integration between the country's water, energy, environment, and food strategies.
Al Etihad
21-03-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Water security national priority for UAE: Suhail Al Mazrouei
21 Mar 2025 15:12 ABU DHABI (WAM) The UAE is marking World Water Day on Saturday, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable water management through ambitious strategies that promote conservation and ensure a secure, sustainable future for generations to year on March 22, the world observes World Water Day to highlight the importance of water management and preservation in achieving sustainable development and ensuring the well-being of UAE fully understands the importance of preserving water and sustaining its resources. In this context, the country has adopted strategies and initiatives to improve water resources management, support strategic water reserves, and increase the area and efficiency of rainwater harvesting, with the aim of enhancing natural groundwater UAE is adopting advanced technical solutions to utilise wastewater to irrigate crops – a solution that contributes to cutting down environmental pollution and reducing the depletion of natural water bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, 'The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure plays a key role in managing water resources in the country through developing effective strategies that enhance water sustainability, keeping pace with population growth, urban development, and economic growth. World Water Day is an opportunity to reiterate our commitment to preserving this life-sustaining resource. Achieving water security requires all hands on deck and calls for raising awareness of water conservation practices. The Ministry is keen on leveraging innovative high-tech solutions to ensure optimal use of water resources.'He added, 'We work diligently to increase reliance on non-conventional water resources to produce fresh water. Non-conventional water resources, including desalinated seawater and treated wastewater, contribute 53 percent of our water supply. The UAE mostly relies on wastewater treatment plants to meet its irrigation needs. There are over 160 wastewater treatment plants. They have a total capacity of over 3 million cubic meters a day and reuse 73 percent of treated wastewater to irrigate landscapes in our cities.'The Minister added, 'In the UAE, water is one of the most important national priority issues, given our geographical location in an arid area, the scarcity of our natural water resources, and the high demand for water for development purposes. The UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 aims to ensure sustainable access to water during both normal and emergency overall objectives of the strategy are to reduce total demand for water resources by 21 percent, reduce the water scarcity index by three degrees, and increase the reuse of treated water to 95 percent by 2036.'In addition, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure joined forces with its partners to launch the first hydrogeological map and geo-database of the UAE, a milestone achievement in documenting and managing water sources with the goal of sustaining and conserving water. The Ministry also launched the National Energy and Water Demand Side Management Program 2050, which seeks to save energy and water resources and improve the environmental performance of energy and water plants.'The Minister further noted that the UAE is investing in modern technologies to enhance water security, such as rainwater harvesting, reusing wastewater for irrigation, and using clean energy desalination technologies. This contributes to addressing climate change challenges and reducing the depletion of natural also noted that the country aims to improve the operational efficiency of desalination plants by using renewable energy to reduce the carbon footprint resulting from desalination Mazrouei pointed out that the UAE is committed to enhancing the sustainability of its water resources through innovation and international cooperation. The country is adopting ambitious strategies to conserve water and ensure a secure and sustainable water future for generations to come.A United Nations report indicated that the UAE has achieved an average of 100 percent in providing safe drinking water and sanitation services, and 82 percent in integrated water resources management, which is one of the best results regionally. The UAE seeks to improve this result in the coming years, by ensuring alignment and integration between the country's water, energy, environment, and food strategies.
Mid East Info
05-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
EtihadWE Enhances Agricultural Sustainability and Supports Food and Water Security with Innovative Solutions and Reduced Water Tariffs
Eng. Yousif Al Ali: 'We aim to create a sustainable environment for farmers through smart solutions that reduce costs and preserve resources.' H.E. Eng. Ahmed Al Kaabi: 'We are committed to supporting national efforts to enhance food and water security by providing sustainable solutions.' H.E. Dr. Mohamed Salman Al Hammadi: 'Protecting our groundwater resources contributes to maintaining ecological balance.' Dubai,March 2024: Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) continues to support the UAE's efforts in strengthening food and water security by providing sustainable solutions for the agricultural sector. These initiatives improve water consumption efficiency, alleviate pressure on groundwater resources, and ensure sustainable agricultural production. This aligns with EtihadWE's commitment, in coordination with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, to the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, the National Food Security Strategy 2051, the National Water and Energy Demand Management Programme 2050, the UAE Centennial 2071 objectives, and the Plant the Emirates National Programme. Desalinated water has emerged as a reliable and sustainable irrigation option, enabling cost savings for farmers while reducing reliance on groundwater. To support this transition, EtihadWE introduced a revised tariff structure, offering three pricing tiers: up to 600,000 gallons per month at 1.5 fils per gallon, between 600,001 and 1.5 million gallons per month at 2 fils per gallon, and consumption exceeding this level at 2.5 fils per gallon. Since the introduction of these reduced tariffs in January 2022, over 1,300 farmers have benefited, reflecting a strong positive response from the agricultural community in the Northern Emirates. Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, stated: 'Aligned with the UAE's vision for sustainability, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions that enhance water consumption efficiency and support the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector. By investing in advanced technologies, we ensure a reliable water supply and promote responsible resource management.' He added: 'Through collaboration with our strategic partners, primarily the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, we empower farmers with tangible financial savings while reinforcing their role in preserving natural resources. Investing in sustainable water practices secures the future of agriculture and upcoming generations.' H.E. Eng. Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Electricity, Water, and Future Energy Sector at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, stated: 'We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to supporting the UAE's food and water security objectives by providing sustainable solutions that improve water consumption efficiency in the agricultural sector and promote reliance on alternative water sources to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.' He added: 'The introduction of reduced water tariffs for farmers reflects our commitment to enabling them to benefit from innovative solutions that generate financial savings while supporting national strategies, including the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 and the National Food Security Strategy 2051. We will continue working closely with our strategic partners to provide advanced solutions that ensure the sustainability of the water and agricultural sectors, which are essential pillars of sustainable development.' H.E. Dr. Mohamed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, said: 'Our groundwater resources are invaluable, and conserving them is essential for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.' He explained that making desalinated water more accessible encourages more farmers to use it for irrigation instead of groundwater, adding: 'EtihadWE's initiative is a significant step in supporting farmers and the agricultural community. Raising awareness about the benefits of desalinated water and promoting efficient water consumption will play a key role in fostering sustainable local agricultural production.' Beyond the economic benefits, this initiative supports the transition to modern agricultural systems, such as vertical farming and hydroponics, which enhance production efficiency and promote sustainable practices. It also enables local farmers to contribute to national sustainability goals, particularly in preserving groundwater, a critical strategic reserve. Through this initiative, EtihadWE reaffirms its commitment to supporting the agricultural community, advancing sustainable water solutions, and contributing to a more resilient future for the UAE's agricultural sector.
