Post by : Maya Rahman

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) of the UAE actively participated in the International Conference on Nuclear and Radiological Emergencies, which took place from December 1st to 4th, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Held under the theme “Building the Future in an Evolving World,” the conference gathered senior officials, regulators, and experts to delve into the latest advancements in emergency preparedness and response.

FANR’s engagement underscores the UAE’s ongoing dedication to enhancing emergency preparedness, improving national capabilities, and fostering international partnerships in tackling nuclear and radiological incidents.

During the conference, FANR’s Director-General, Christer Viktorsson, took part in a pivotal session that explored the critical role of exercises in emergency preparedness. This session highlighted the importance of coordinated drills and wide-ranging simulations in assessing national capabilities and refining response strategies in urgent situations.

FANR also chaired several sessions addressing essential aspects of nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response. The discussions centered on fortifying public health and medical response strategies, enhancing first responder coordination, and advancing recovery plans and long-term response strategies. These dialogues highlighted the necessity for integrated health mechanisms, effective recovery strategies, and the maintenance of public confidence through rigorous regulatory oversight during all emergency management phases.

To ensure readiness, the UAE regularly tests its emergency framework through both national and international exercises. In 2025, around 15 multi-agency drills were executed to bolster collaboration with national partners and enhance response capabilities. Additionally, FANR’s involvement in international exercises, such as the IAEA ConvEx-3, demonstrates the UAE’s leadership in nuclear emergency management.

FANR is instrumental in shaping the UAE’s national Emergency Preparedness and Response System, working closely with local and international entities. Its cutting-edge Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) facilitates real-time coordination, technical evaluations, and decision-making in nuclear and radiological crises. The EOC also acts as the UAE’s National Warning Focal Point, aligning with relevant international agreements.

The conference reinforced FANR’s commitment to the protection of public welfare and environmental integrity. The authority’s emergency framework has garnered recognition for its robustness and effectiveness in managing various emergency scenarios. Through its comprehensive strategies, FANR is poised to ensure that the UAE is well-equipped to handle nuclear and radiological emergencies while sustaining public trust and safety.

By engaging in the Riyadh conference, FANR emphasized its leadership in disseminating knowledge, fortifying international cooperation, and advocating best practices in nuclear and radiological emergency management. The UAE remains steadfast in its pursuit of public safety, environmental stewardship, and global collaboration in this vital area.

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