UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science opens sixth cycle for submissions
The UAE is inviting researchers worldwide to submit innovative proposals for cloud-seeding projects, with a total grant of up to $1.5 million (AED 5.51 million) available. The funding will be awarded through the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), which has launched its sixth cycle to support advancements in rain enhancement technology.
Funding and Submission Details
The grant will be distributed among up to three selected projects over three years, with a maximum annual funding of $550,000 per project. Submissions are open until March 13, 2025, with pre-proposals due by March 20, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by May 20, 2025, and full proposals must be submitted by August 28, 2025. The winning projects will be announced in January 2026 following a rigorous two-stage review process.
The announcement was made at the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) in Abu Dhabi, which runs from January 28 to 30 at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers.
Cloud-Seeding Research Priorities
UAEREP is focusing on five key areas for this funding cycle:
- Optimised Seeding Materials
- Novel Cloud Formation and Rain Enhancement Systems
- Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
- Limited-Area Climate Interventions
- Advanced Models, Software, and Data
Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director-General of the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), highlighted the programme’s role in addressing global water security challenges. “UAEREP’s sixth cycle provides a crucial platform for scientific innovation in rain enhancement science, aligning with the UAE’s commitment to climate action and resilience,” he said.
A Decade of Innovation
UAEREP ( Cloud-Seeding )marks its 10th anniversary this year, having allocated AED 82.6 million ($22.5 million) to 11 completed research projects. The programme has resulted in eight patents, with three more pending, and three additional projects currently in progress.
Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, emphasised the importance of the latest cycle in advancing research and technology. “We seek proposals that enhance Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and provide innovative solutions to global water scarcity,” she noted.
With increasing global concerns over water security, the UAE continues to position itself as a leader in rain enhancement research, leveraging cutting-edge technology to ensure a sustainable future.