UAE Advances Global Leadership in Metrology at International Conference in Versailles
The Emirates Metrology Institute represents the nation at the 28th General Conference on Weights and Measures, forging strategic partnerships and strengthening the UAE's role in international scientific cooperation.
The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to scientific excellence and international cooperation by participating in the 28th meeting of the General Conference on Weights and Measures, a prestigious gathering of global metrology leaders held recently in Versailles, France. The conference brought together representatives from member states alongside distinguished international experts to shape the future of measurement systems that underpin technological advancement and industrial progress worldwide.
Engineer Saeed Mohammed Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the Emirates Metrology Institute, part of the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council, led the UAE delegation at this significant international forum. His participation embodies the nation’s determination to expand its technical partnerships and maintain its engagement with cutting-edge developments in metrology, a discipline that proves increasingly vital to industry and technological innovation.
The conference proved remarkably productive, adopting seven comprehensive resolutions that address the evolution of global measurement systems and the future of timekeeping. Notably, discussions centred on the refinement of the second’s definition, the advancement of digital transformation across the global metrology infrastructure, and the essential technical measures required to preserve the integrity of Coordinated Universal Time. Additional resolutions covered universal adherence to the Metre Convention, the International Bureau of Weights and Measures’ financial allocation for the period 2028 to 2031, and procedural governance.
A particularly forward-looking resolution emerged concerning an international lunar reference time scale, reflecting humanity’s expanding ambitions in space exploration. This initiative supports ongoing scientific collaboration between the International Bureau of Weights and Measures, national metrology institutes, space agencies and relevant international organisations to develop applications in lunar navigation, positioning and timing systems that will serve future missions to the Moon.
Beyond formal proceedings, Engineer Al Muhairi engaged in a series of bilateral discussions with international leaders and representatives of specialised institutions. These conversations encompassed opportunities for collaborative advancement, technical expertise exchange and the strengthening of partnerships. Notably, discussions included exploration of formal observer status for Emirates Metrology Institute representatives at the consultative committees of the International Committee for Weights and Measures, an arrangement that would facilitate deeper engagement with scientific developments and enhanced technical contribution to the international measurement system.
The UAE’s active participation reinforces the nation’s position as a conscientious and engaged member of the global scientific community, whilst simultaneously supporting the development of national capabilities in metrology and fostering international cooperation that serves the requirements of the industrial and technology sectors.
Source: WAM