Abu Dhabi:The United Arab Emirates has achieved significant progress in the 2026 Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) Nuclear Security Index, securing the fourth position among 48 countries assessed for safeguarding nuclear facilities against sabotage.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE also ranked joint 15th among 154 countries and areas evaluated for supporting global efforts against nuclear material theft, with a score of 85 out of 100. This represents an improvement of two points compared to the recalculated 2023 baseline.
The 2026 NTI Nuclear Security Index, developed by the Nuclear Threat Initiative in collaboration with Economist Enterprise, provides an independent assessment of global nuclear security conditions. It evaluates nations based on security and control measures, international norms, domestic commitments and capacity, and the broader risk environment. The Index highlighted the UAE's advancements in security and control measures, with its score increasing from 66 in 2023 to 86 in 2026.
The UAE's progress is attributed to strengthened nuclear facility protection requirements, updated cybersecurity provisions, enhanced personnel vetting requirements, and measures to bolster preparedness and resilience. These efforts encompass key aspects of nuclear security, such as physical protection, insider-threat prevention, response capabilities, cybersecurity, and security culture.
Hamad Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), emphasized the UAE's dedication to maintaining a robust nuclear security regime. He noted that the strong performance in the 2026 NTI Nuclear Security Index reflects the UAE's commitment to high standards of nuclear security and effective national coordination.
FANR has developed an integrated regulatory framework for nuclear security, overseeing nuclear facilities and materials, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with nuclear security requirements. The UAE collaborates with the International Atomic Energy Agency and international partners to enhance national capabilities and contribute to global nuclear security efforts.
NTI's 2026 assessment recognized the UAE as one of 12 countries driving global nuclear security progress, acknowledging its domestic improvements, support for other governments, and engagement with international institutions. The UAE's performance underscores its ongoing commitment to strengthening its nuclear security regime and contributing to global efforts to address evolving risks.