The UAE participated in the 70th Regular Session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference, held in Vienna from September 14 to 18, 2026, highlighting its commitment to the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The UAE delegation was led by Hamad Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), and included representatives from FANR, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The participation also marked 50 years since the UAE joined the IAEA in 1976.

“Our longstanding partnership with the IAEA reflects the UAE’s commitment to the safe, secure and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. As we mark 50 years of membership, we are building on this partnership to share our regulatory experience, strengthen national and international capabilities, and support the responsible use of nuclear technology for the benefit of society,” Al Kaabi said.

During the conference, FANR signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority to strengthen regulatory cooperation, alongside a Complementary Bilateral Cooperation Arrangement with the IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. The agreements aim to support technical exchanges, practical collaboration and capacity-building.

The UAE delegation also held discussions with international regulators and senior IAEA officials on radioactive waste and spent fuel management, operating experience, regulatory preparedness for small modular reactors, artificial intelligence and specialist expertise.

FANR showcased its Intelligent Operational Nuclear Safety (IONS) system, developed with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre.

The system uses environmental and climate data and artificial intelligence to strengthen nuclear facility monitoring and resilience.

The UAE also shared its regulatory experience at senior safety and security meetings, drawing on its licensing and oversight of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant to support countries developing or expanding peaceful nuclear programmes. -OGN/TradeArabia News Service