Vienna: The United Arab Emirates presented its Fifth National Report on Compliance with the Obligations of the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management. The UAE is participating as a Contracting Party to the Joint Convention, which is holding its 8th review meeting at the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE's delegation is led by Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi, the UAE's Permanent Representative to the IAEA, along with representatives from national nuclear stakeholders including the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC). Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi emphasized the UAE's commitment to nuclear safety and security, highlighting the nation's dedication to transparency and collaboration in managing radioactive waste through robust infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.
The National Report outlines the legislative and regulatory measures undertaken by the UAE to fulfill its obligations under the Joint Convention. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation has issued regulations addressing the management of radioactive waste, reflecting the UAE's policy commitment to developing an integrated waste management system that aligns with international standards.
The report also details the current processes and plans for spent fuel and radioactive waste management. The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company and its affiliates have implemented measures at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant to store spent fuel for 20 years before transferring it to a dry storage facility. In 2023, a license was issued for the selection of a site for constructing a Radioactive Low Level Waste Management Facility.
The delegation provided updates on radioactive waste from medical and industrial facilities in the UAE, which comply with FANR regulations for secure storage and transport. Over 4,000 licensees currently use regulated materials in sectors such as medical, industrial, and education.
Additionally, the UAE delegation highlighted efforts to build Emirati capabilities in the nuclear sector through collaboration with educational institutions. Emiratis now represent over 76% of FANR's workforce, with women comprising around 45% of the workforce and holding 58% of leadership positions.
The Joint Convention, effective since 2001, obliges Contracting Parties to protect people and the environment from hazards posed by spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste. The UAE acceded to the Joint Convention in 2009 and submits a national report to the IAEA review meeting every three years.