Competition for $1.5 Million Rain Enhancement Prize Begins in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science invites researchers and scientists from all over the world to take part in addressing water scarcity and invent new technologies for enhancing rain. It provides very generous funding to support research projects that promise pioneering work. Participation in these projects opens the way not only for interesting science and good financing but also, an opportunity to experience the living conditions in Dubai and learn about the culture of the Emirates.

In this call for proposals, which is the sixth for innovative research projects launched by UAEREP, a cumulative award of up to $1.5 million-approximately 5.5 million AED-is on offer. Funding will be awarded for three winning projects and disseminated over a three-year period with an annual allocation not to exceed $550,000 per project. The big announcement was made at a press conference during the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum, running from 28 to 30 January in Abu Dhabi. It presented an opportunity for global experts and researchers to share recent progress and views in rain enhancement science.

Key Research Focus Areas

UAEREP is inviting research proposals with a focus on the following five key areas:

1. Optimized Cloud Seeding Materials: Research into the most effective materials for cloud seeding to enhance rainfall.
2. Innovative Cloud Formation and Rainfall Enhancement Systems: Developing new systems to improve cloud formation and increase precipitation.
3. Autonomous Aerial Vehicles (Drones): Utilizing drones for cloud study and rain enhancement operations.
4. Local Weather Modification: Artificially inducing small-scale changes in weather to increase rainfall.
5. Advanced Models, Software, and Data Analytics: Development of predictive models, software solutions, and leveraging advanced data analytics for better forecasting and management of rainfall.

The Importance of UAEREP

Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, NCM Director General, underscored that this program is within the framework of its role in enhancing water security and in line with the UAE’s commitment to climate action. Alya Al Mazroui, Director of UAEREP, has shed light on the program’s mission: to advance the cause of rain enhancement technologies in support of local and global initiatives for water security.

Proposal Submission Deadlines

Submission Deadline: March 13
Initial Draft Deadline: March 20
Final Proposal Submission: August 28
Winning Projects Announcement: January 2026

UAEREP’s Achievements at a Glance

This year celebrates the 10th Anniversary of UAEREP-a decade of progress in the science of rain enhancement. In all, until now, it has invested AED 82.6 million in funding granted to 11 innovative research projects with outstanding results, including already issued 8 patents and 3 more currently pending.

Conclusion

Fully aware of the dire implications of water shortage, the UAE has, over the years, continued to invest in state-of-the-art rain enhancement technology. UAEREP stands at the forefront of this mission by providing extensive financial support to committed researchers in the advancement of this field. This new call provides a very great avenue for scientists from around the world to avail innovative ideas that can help alleviate water shortages and further develop meteorological technology.

Source: https://www.arnnewscentre.ae