UAEREP Launches 6th Cycle with $1.5 Million Grants for Innovative Proposals
The announcement was made during the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF), held from January 28-30, 2025, at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers.
The UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) has officially opened its 6th cycle for research proposals, offering substantial funding opportunities for pioneering projects in the field of rain enhancement. The program will award up to US$1.5 million (AED 5.511 million) in grants, distributed among three winning projects. Each selected proposal can receive up to US$550,000 annually for a maximum of three years.
Announcement at 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF)
The announcement was made during the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF), held from January 28-30, 2025, at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers. This prestigious event gathers leading experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore innovative solutions to water security challenges, increasingly exacerbated by climate change.
Focus on Five Core Research Areas
UAEREP is inviting proposals that align with its five core research priorities:
- Optimised Seeding Materials: Developing more effective materials for cloud seeding.
- Novel Cloud Formation Systems: Exploring innovative techniques to stimulate cloud formation.
- Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Enhancing autonomous technologies for precise rain enhancement.
- Limited-Area Climate Interventions: Investigating localized climate manipulation methods.
- Advanced Models and Data: Improving predictive models and data analysis for better rain enhancement outcomes.
Leadership Perspectives on Global Impact
Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director-General of the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) and President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), emphasized the critical role this funding cycle plays in addressing global water scarcity. He highlighted the importance of advancing sustainable climate action through cutting-edge research.
Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, reiterated the program’s commitment to positioning the UAE as a global leader in rain enhancement science. She stressed the importance of projects that demonstrate clear progression in Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and align closely with the program’s strategic research priorities.
Application Timeline and Submission Details
Interested researchers and institutions should note the following key dates:
- Registration Deadline: March 13, 2025
- Pre-Proposal Submission Deadline: March 20, 2025
- Invitation for Full Proposals: May 20, 2025
- Final Selections Announced: January 2026
A Decade of Innovation and Impact
The 7th IREF coincides with UAEREP’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade of dedicated efforts to enhance water security through scientific innovation. Over the past ten years, UAEREP has invested AED 82.6 million in 11 groundbreaking research projects, leading to the development of 8 patents, significantly contributing to the field of rain enhancement science.
Researchers worldwide are encouraged to submit their proposals and contribute to this vital global initiative aimed at ensuring water sustainability in the face of climate change.
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