In a decisive move to address the country’s ongoing water challenges, the United Arab Emirates’ National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) announced it has conducted over 110 cloud seeding flights since the beginning of 2025. Despite these intensified efforts, the UAE has experienced a notably dry winter, a trend largely influenced by the La Niña climatic phenomenon.
This commitment highlights the UAE’s enduring leadership in cloud seeding technology in the Arabian Gulf and showcases its proactive strategy in securing sustainable water resources for the nation’s future.
UAE Cloud Seeding 2025: Responding to Water Scarcity
Cloud seeding has been a critical tool in the UAE’s meteorological strategy for decades, and in 2025, the NCM has expanded these operations significantly. With over 100 flights conducted by specialized aircraft, the focus remains on increasing rainfall during periods of dryness.
Despite these enhanced efforts, rainfall this year has been historically low. The highest single-day rainfall recorded so far in 2025 was just 20.1mm at the Jebel Jais station in Ras Al Khaimah on January 14, demonstrating the severity of the dry conditions.
La Niña’s Impact on UAE’s Weather
The main culprit behind this year’s unusually dry weather is the La Niña event. Characterized by cooler sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, La Niña leads to:
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Stronger subtropical high-pressure systems over the Arabian Peninsula.
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Suppression of low-pressure systems that typically bring rain.
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Increased dryness and higher temperatures across the region.
According to the NCM, La Niña has significantly disrupted the usual winter rainfall patterns, making cloud seeding operations even more crucial this year.
How UAE Cloud Seeding Works
The UAE’s cloud seeding program is among the most advanced globally, utilizing cutting-edge technologies to optimize rainfall generation.
Key components include:
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Six Dedicated Aircraft: Specially equipped with flares containing hygroscopic (salt-based) materials.
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Advanced Weather Radar Systems: These identify suitable clouds for seeding.
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Strategic Seeding Operations: Aircraft are dispatched precisely when and where conditions are most favorable.
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Scientific Research: Continuous studies on cloud behavior to refine seeding techniques for maximum efficiency.
The NCM’s team of meteorologists, pilots, and researchers work in real-time coordination to ensure that each flight offers the best possible chance of inducing rain.
Achievements and Challenges in 2025
While cloud seeding operations have been intensified, the results have varied due to climatic resistance posed by La Niña.
One remarkable event occurred on April 16, when Khatm Al Shaqala station recorded an astounding 254.8mm of rainfall in a single day. This isolated but intense downpour underscores the unpredictable nature of weather patterns under current global climatic conditions.
Despite this localized success, widespread rainfall remains elusive, prompting the NCM to explore new methods and international collaborations to further enhance weather modification efforts.
Why Cloud Seeding is Crucial for the UAE
Water scarcity has long been a concern for the UAE, with natural freshwater resources being extremely limited.
Cloud seeding supports critical national goals, including:
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Groundwater Recharge: Helping to replenish aquifers naturally.
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Agricultural Sustainability: Supporting farming efforts vital for food security.
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Urban Green Initiatives: Sustaining green city projects and urban landscaping.
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Reduced Desalination Dependency: Mitigating the environmental and economic impacts of desalination.
These objectives align closely with the UAE Vision 2030 and the Water Security Strategy 2036, reflecting the government’s holistic approach to resource management and sustainability.
Future of Cloud Seeding in the UAE
The NCM is investing heavily in next-generation cloud seeding technologies, including:
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Nanotechnology-Based Flares: More efficient materials that attract more water vapor.
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AI-Powered Weather Forecasting: Enhancing prediction accuracy for cloud formations.
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Regional Cooperation: Sharing expertise and technology with neighboring Gulf countries.
In addition to technological advances, the UAE aims to build greater public awareness around the science of cloud seeding and its importance in tackling climate-related challenges.
Conclusion
Despite facing one of the driest winters on record, the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology continues to lead regional and global efforts in cloud seeding technology. By conducting over 110 cloud seeding flights in 2025, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions to water scarcity.
With continued adaptation, scientific advancement, and strategic foresight, the UAE’s cloud seeding program stands as a beacon of resilience in an era of growing climatic uncertainty.
As the UAE looks to the future, its leadership in weather modification and climate adaptation promises not only a more sustainable nation but also offers a model for other countries facing similar environmental challenges.
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