Submissions open for UAE's $1.5 mn grants for rain enhancement projects

The UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) has officially launched its 6th cycle for submissions of innovative research proposals.

The programme is offering grants of up to $1.5 million (around AED 5.5 million), for up to three winning projects. The grant will be spread over three years, with a maximum of $550,000 per year for each project.

The announcement was made at a press conference during the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) in Abu Dhabi, which runs from January 28-30.

UAEREP is inviting research proposals focused on five key areas: Optimized Seeding Materials, Novel Cloud Formation and Rain Enhancement Systems, Autonomous UAS, Limited-Area Climate Interventions, and Advanced Models, Software, and Data.

Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director General of the National Centre of Meteorology, highlighted the programme's importance in addressing water security challenges and its alignment with the UAE’s commitment to climate action.

Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, emphasized the programme’s goal to advance rain enhancement technology and solutions to improve water security both locally and globally.

Proposals are open for submission until March 13, with pre-proposals due by March 20. Full proposals will be requested by May 20 and should be submitted by August 28.

The winning projects will be announced in January 2026.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of UAEREP, a decade of progress in rain enhancement science. To date, the programme has allocated AED 82.6 million towards the successful completion of 11 innovative research projects, resulting in 8 patents, with 3 more pending registration.

The #UAEREP 6th Award Cycle portal is now open! Researchers worldwide are invited to submit proposals for a $1.5 million grant to advance rain enhancement science.

Apply now at https://t.co/5yBnllySmE and contribute to the future of water security. pic.twitter.com/w5lswPpuPG

— UAEREP (@UAEREP) January 28, 2025