Emirates Polar Programme Advances Global Cryospheric Science at Arctic Circle Assembly
The UAE's pioneering polar research initiative contributes to international dialogue on ice, water systems and climate resilience at prestigious gathering in Reykjavík
The Emirates Polar Programme, the Arab world’s inaugural national polar research initiative, has made significant contributions to the advancement of global cryospheric science through its participation in the Arctic Circle Assembly 2026, held in Reykjavík, Iceland from 8 to 10 October.
The prestigious gathering convened approximately 2,300 distinguished participants representing 70 nations, with over 700 speakers engaging across more than 200 sessions dedicated to matters of critical international importance. The Emirates Polar Programme’s presence at this venerable assembly underscored the UAE’s commitment to bridging scientific research with practical policy implementation on a global stage.
Dr. Aisha Al Suwaidi, Chief Science Advisor to the Emirates Polar Programme, chaired the illuminating session entitled “Ice, Water Systems, and Livelihoods,” which examined the profound interconnections between changes in the cryosphere and their cascading effects on water security and communities worldwide. The discourse emphasised the imperative of integrating scientific expertise, policy frameworks and community perspectives when addressing the universal ramifications of polar transformation.
Wassim Said, Member of the Emirates Polar Programme Steering Committee, contributed as a panellist to the session “Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences 2025–2034,” organised in collaboration with UNESCO’s International Hydrological Programme and the Icelandic Meteorological Office. This discussion explored the mechanisms through which enhanced research coordination and international observation networks can translate scientific understanding into informed governmental action and coordinated global response.
The Programme’s substantive engagement at the Assembly builds upon the UAE’s accession to the Svalbard Treaty in April 2026, a milestone that considerably expands the nation’s participation in Arctic scientific endeavours and international research cooperation. This accession affords UAE researchers unprecedented opportunities to conduct fieldwork and establish collaborative partnerships with the international research community in Svalbard, including the renowned research station at Ny-Ålesund.
As a non-Arctic nation, the UAE contributes a distinctive perspective to these vital international conversations. Changes occurring within the polar cryosphere exert profound influences on nations across all latitudes, affecting sea levels, water availability and global climate systems. The Programme’s participation exemplifies the UAE’s dedication to enriching international polar science and fostering meaningful cooperation on challenges that transcend geographical boundaries.
This engagement furthermore reflects the broader strategic ambitions of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court, which endeavours to strengthen multifaceted international cooperation across the domains of science and research.
Source: WAM