The UAE strengthens its commitment to nuclear safety at the meeting of the contracting parties to the Nuclear Safety Agreement
Vienna, April 16 / WAM / The United Arab Emirates presented its tenth national report during the review meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Nuclear Safety Convention, which was held at the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The country’s delegation presented the national report as part of the review process stipulated in the agreement, highlighting the UAE’s continued commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety, transparency and international cooperation.
The country’s national report reviews the legislative, regulatory and operational frameworks that have been implemented to fulfill its obligations under the Nuclear Safety Convention.
It also highlights achievements made since the previous review cycle, including the commercial operation of the four units at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant.
The report addresses the effectiveness of the regulatory framework in the country and its continued development, as the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, during the reporting period, updated a number of key regulations, including strengthening the requirements for physical protection and cybersecurity for nuclear facilities, and developing frameworks for accrediting operational personnel in the nuclear sector.
The Authority also issued new regulatory guides to enhance the security and safety of transporting radioactive materials, in addition to developing a master regulatory plan for the period (2025-2029) to keep pace with emerging technologies and future monitoring needs.
Nawah Energy Company (known as Emirates Nuclear Energy Company – Operations) demonstrated improvements in operational performance, including the effective implementation of refueling operations and maintaining the safe operation of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant.
The operator also strengthened the culture of nuclear safety through independent assessments and cadre participation, in addition to developing highly skilled national competencies through organized training programs.
It also contributed to supporting the growth of the country’s nuclear supply chain through strategic partnerships, thus enhancing long-term energy security and sustainable economic development.
During the presentation, the UAE reviewed its most prominent achievements with regard to regulatory infrastructure and the continuous development of human resources and national capabilities.
The report also confirms the country’s proactive approach in adopting international best practices, including harmonization with safety standards issued by the International Atomic Energy Agency, and applying the principles of the Vienna Declaration on Nuclear Safety.
The state also stressed its commitment to continuous development, by taking into account the recommendations issued by previous review meetings, strengthening emergency preparedness and response frameworks, and supporting research and innovation to achieve the sustainability of nuclear safety in the long term.
Christer Viktorsson, Director General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, said that the UAE’s tenth national report reflects the Authority’s continued commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety, supported by a strong and advanced regulatory framework. It also highlights the continued progress achieved by the country in ensuring the safe operation of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, while strengthening the Authority’s role as a responsible and transparent party in the global nuclear safety system.
The Nuclear Safety Convention is a legally binding international instrument that aims to achieve and maintain a high level of safety in nuclear power plants worldwide through national measures and international cooperation.
The Contracting Parties are committed to submitting periodic national reports that are subject to review, in order to enhance transparency and exchange of best practices.
The UAE joined the agreement as a contracting party in 2009, and continues its active participation in the review processes, confirming its position as a responsible and committed member of the international nuclear community.
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