UAE receives IAEA’s highest recognition for nuclear safeguards

The UAE has once again received the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) highest level of recognition in its 2024 Safeguards Implementation Report, marking the third consecutive year the country has earned the “Broader Conclusion”.

This achievement reaffirms that all declared nuclear material in the UAE is being used solely for peaceful purposes. It reflects the country’s strong regulatory framework and continued commitment to nuclear transparency and global non-proliferation standards.

The “Broader Conclusion” is the result of a thorough review process carried out by the IAEA, based on detailed information provided by the UAE under its non-proliferation agreements. This includes regular reports on nuclear facilities, materials and technologies, as well as voluntary additional disclosures. The IAEA then verifies this information through inspections and assessments, also considering independent sources and open-source data.

The UAE’s ability to consistently meet the highest standards has enabled the IAEA to implement what is known as “Integrated Safeguards” in the country. This system allows for a more efficient verification process by reducing the frequency of inspections, without compromising the high level of oversight. It also underscores international confidence in the UAE’s peaceful nuclear energy programme.

“This continued recognition by the IAEA is a proud moment for the UAE and a clear signal of our ongoing dedication to using nuclear energy in a safe, transparent, and peaceful manner,” said a spokesperson from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR).

In 2021, the UAE took a significant step in strengthening its nuclear safeguards by completing the final part of its subsidiary arrangements with the IAEA, fully meeting its obligations under the safeguards agreement. This paved the way for deeper cooperation and further reinforced the UAE’s position as a responsible user of nuclear technology.

Throughout 2024, the UAE continued to support the IAEA through its Safeguards Support Programme. This included sharing technical expertise, providing resources, and participating in international efforts to improve the agency’s monitoring capabilities.

With all four units of the Barakah nuclear power plant now fully operational and contributing to the UAE’s clean energy goals, maintaining high standards of safety, security, and non-proliferation remains a national priority.

This latest recognition from the IAEA places the UAE among a small group of countries globally that have achieved the “Broader Conclusion”, highlighting the country’s leadership in peaceful nuclear energy development.

As the UAE continues to expand its role in the global energy landscape, it remains committed to upholding the highest standards of international cooperation, nuclear safety, and environmental responsibility.