In a groundbreaking move to strengthen scientific ties, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India have signed a landmark agreement to collaborate on polar research, as the countries aspire to increase their understanding of the Arctic to elevate climate action.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Emirates Polar Program and India's National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) during the 15th UAE-India Joint Committee Meeting session.

The signing ceremony was chaired by Abdullah Balala, Assistant Minister of Energy and Sustainability Affairs and Deputy Chairman of the UAE Polar Mission Steering Committee ​​and Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) of India Dr M. Ravichandran.

The agreement will facilitate joint efforts in polar research, academic exchange and capacity building, increasing the presence and contribution of both countries in the polar region.

Abdullah Balala stressed the importance of this partnership, stating, "This partnership reflects the UAE's commitment to scientific excellence through global partnerships. By leveraging India's vast experience in polar research, we are not only enhancing our national capabilities but also paving the way for future generations to make groundbreaking discoveries in this important field."

The Emirates Polar Programme, formed to strengthen the UAE's leadership position in polar science, would benefit significantly from this relationship. The program focuses on participation in worldwide missions to Antarctica and the Arctic, advocating global climate action and improving awareness of the polar environment. This project highlights the UAE's commitment to worldwide scientific collaboration and environmental stewardship in the polar areas.

The expansion of polar research builds on the strong cooperation between the UAE and India in key areas such as defence, energy, trade and emerging technologies, highlighting the two countries' shared commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, managing global climate challenges and encouraging environmental stewardship.

By entering this pristine frontier of cooperation, the UAE and India are strengthening their strategic partnership and placing both countries at the forefront of global efforts to understand and conserve the world's polar regions.