Emirates Polar Programme takes part in Arctic Circle meet

The Emirates Polar Programme, the first Arab national polar programme, participated in the Arctic Circle Assembly 2026 in Reykjavík, Iceland, from 8 to 10 October, contributing to international efforts to advance cryospheric science. Through key engagements, the delegation connected scientific research with policy and highlighted how changes in glaciers, ice sheets and snow affect water systems, livelihoods and communities far beyond the polar regions.

Through its partnership with Arctic Circle, the Emirates Polar Programme took part in the Assembly that brought together approximately 2,300 participants from 70 countries, with 700 speakers contributing to more than 200 sessions.

Dr. Aisha Al Suwaidi, Chief Science Adviser to the Emirates Polar Programme, moderated "Ice, Water Systems, and Livelihoods,” a session hosted by the Programme. The discussion explored the connections between changes in the cryosphere, water security and livelihoods, and the importance of bringing science, policy and communities together when responding to their global consequences.

Wassim Said, Member of the Emirates Polar Programme Steering Committee, participated as a panellist in a session titled "Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences 2025-2034,” organised by UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme and the Icelandic Meteorological Office. The session examined how stronger research, observation and international coordination can translate scientific knowledge into informed policies and collective action.

The Programme’s contribution at the Assembly builds on the UAE’s accession to the Svalbard Treaty in April 2026, which expanded the country’s engagement in Arctic science and international cooperation. The accession creates opportunities for UAE researchers to undertake fieldwork and collaborate with the international research community in Svalbard, including at Ny-Ålesund.

As a non-Arctic nation, the UAE brings a distinct perspective to these discussions. Changes in the cryosphere have consequences for countries worldwide, influencing sea levels, water availability and climate systems. The Programme’s participation reflects the UAE’s commitment to contributing to international polar science and supporting cooperation on challenges that extend across borders. The engagement also forms part of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court’s wider efforts to strengthen strategic international cooperation across science and research.

A recent report says the United Arab Emirates has joined the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) as an associate member, becoming the first Arab state to join the international body in its 68-year history.

The UAE’s membership was officially approved in August 2026 during the SCAR Delegates Meetings, held following the 12th SCAR Open Science Conference in Oslo, Norway.

SCAR coordinates international scientific research in Antarctica and provides independent scientific advice that informs Antarctic governance and global climate assessments. Membership connects the UAE’s growing polar research community with an international network of scientists and institutions working to advance the understanding of Antarctica and its role in the global climate system.

The UAE’s participation in SCAR will be delivered through the Emirates Polar Programme and the Polar Research Centre hosted at Khalifa University, where UAE researchers are developing national expertise and working with established polar programmes on environmental monitoring and field research in Antarctica.

Mariam Almheiri, Head of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court, Chair of the Emirates Polar Programme Steering Committee said, “The UAE’s membership in SCAR marks an important milestone for the Emirates Polar Programme and the development of our national capabilities in polar science. Scientific progress in the polar regions is built on international cooperation, shared knowledge and long-term partnerships. Through SCAR, we are creating new pathways for Emirati scientists to contribute to international research, work alongside leading scientific institutions and build the expertise that will support the UAE’s growing role in polar science.”

As an Associate Member, UAE researchers will be able to participate in SCAR’s international research and expert groups, which bring together specialists across disciplines including ice-sheet dynamics, Southern Ocean change, permafrost and geological history. This membership also opens opportunities for early-career Emirati scientists to access SCAR fellowships, research placements and international scientific exchanges.

SCAR’s president Gary Wilson said, “SCAR is pleased to welcome the United Arab Emirates as an associate member. The Emirates Polar Programme already has several strong Antarctic research programmes, and we look forward to including Emirates researchers across SCAR Research programme and building collaborative research efforts to address globally important challenges."

WAM