Abu Dhabi Hosts 18th SMIIC Metrology Council Meeting
The Emirates Metrology Institute convened delegations from OIC countries to advance measurement standards, industrial competitiveness and technological innovation across the Islamic world.
Abu Dhabi recently hosted the 18th meeting of the Metrology Council of the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC), bringing together metrology specialists and government representatives from across the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation member states. The Emirates Metrology Institute, operating under the auspices of the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council, facilitated the two-day gathering on 5th and 6th October 2026.
The council’s deliberations centred on strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation amongst member nations whilst advancing measurement capabilities that underpin product quality and industrial competitiveness. Engineer Saeed Al Muhairi, who chairs both the SMIIC Metrology Council and serves as Executive Director of the Emirates Metrology Institute, presided over proceedings that also included representatives from the Gulf Association for Metrology, the Intra-Africa Metrology System and the SMIIC General Secretariat.
Engineer Al Muhairi emphasised the fundamental importance of accurate measurement in establishing consumer confidence, optimising production processes and facilitating international trade. He advocated for enhanced knowledge exchange between member states and the systematic development of measurement expertise to address the accelerating pace of industrial transformation and technological change.
A particular focus emerged regarding artificial intelligence’s potential to revolutionise measurement systems. The council recognised that emerging technologies offer opportunities to enhance decision-making reliability and enable institutions to navigate rapidly evolving technological landscapes more effectively.
During the meeting, member states presented comprehensive national reports detailing their existing metrology infrastructure and recent advancements. The council’s steering committee and supporting sub-committees provided detailed accounts of their programmes and activities, all designed to advance the strategic objectives established for the period 2026–2028.
Substantive discussion addressed priorities for collective action, encompassing expertise development, systematic knowledge sharing and reinforcement of mutual recognition agreements regarding measurement standards amongst participating nations. These elements remain essential for facilitating seamless trade and ensuring consistent product quality across Islamic-majority countries.
The gathering concluded with the formal adoption of resolutions and recommendations intended to guide the council’s work programme and support advancement of the strategic framework. Abu Dhabi’s role as host demonstrates the United Arab Emirates’ steadfast commitment to fostering regional and international cooperation on quality standards and harnessing knowledge alongside modern technology to stimulate economic and industrial advancement.
Source: WAM