UAE Becomes First Arab State To Join Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research
UAE has joined the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) as an associate member, marking a significant achievement as the first Arab state to do so in the committee's 68-year history.
This development was officially approved during the SCAR Delegates Meetings in August 2026, following the 12th SCAR Open Science Conference in Oslo, Norway.
The Role of SCAR
SCAR coordinates international scientific research in Antarctica and offers independent scientific advice to inform Antarctic governance and global climate assessments. This membership connects the UAE's growing polar research community with an international network of scientists and institutions dedicated to understanding Antarctica's role in the global climate system.
UAE's Participation
The UAE's participation in SCAR is facilitated through the Emirates Polar Programme and the Polar Research Centre at Khalifa University. Emirati researchers are developing national expertise while collaborating with established polar programs on environmental monitoring and field research in Antarctica.
“The UAE’s membership in SCAR marks an important milestone for the Emirates Polar Program... Through SCAR, we are creating new pathways for Emirati scientists to contribute to international research..." - Mariam Almheiri, Head of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court
Benefits of Membership
As an associate member, UAE researchers can:
- Participate in SCAR’s international research and expert groups covering diverse areas like ice-sheet dynamics, Southern Ocean change, permafrost, and geological history.
- Access SCAR fellowships, research placements, and international scientific exchanges for early-career Emirati scientists.
“SCAR is pleased to welcome the United Arab Emirates as an associate member... We look forward to collaborative research efforts..." - Gary Wilson, President of SCAR
“Through SCAR, we look forward to contributing to shared scientific priorities..." - Dr. Aisha AlSuwaidi, Professor of Earth Science at Khalifa University