UAE and Finland Join Hands for Climate and Polar Research

The UAE and Finland have taken another step towards tackling climate change and advancing weather science by signing a new agreement to work together on meteorology and polar research.

The deal was signed in the Finnish capital, Helsinki, between Dr. Abdullah Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organization and Director of the UAE’s National Center of Meteorology, and Professor Petteri Taalas, Director General of the Finnish Meteorological Institute.

This partnership will see the two countries exchange expertise, share advanced technologies, and carry out joint research projects, with a special focus on polar studies. For the UAE, this is part of its UAE Polar Program, which aims to establish Emirati research labs in both the Arctic and Antarctic to help better understand the world’s changing climate.

“This agreement is an important step in strengthening the UAE’s role in global climate research,” said Dr. Al Mandous. “By working closely with Finland, we can share knowledge, improve forecasting tools, and find innovative ways to tackle environmental challenges.”

The cooperation will also involve using Finland’s advanced space weather services and artificial intelligence tools to improve climate forecasting. These improvements could help vital sectors such as farming, aviation, shipping, and disaster management.

During his visit, Dr. Al Mandous and his Finnish counterparts discussed plans for joint research infrastructure, scientist exchange programs, and field studies in polar regions. They also explored ways to reform international meteorological organizations to better meet the needs of a changing world.

Professor Taalas welcomed the agreement, saying, “The UAE has shown real commitment to supporting global science. This partnership will help improve our ability to predict extreme weather and understand climate change’s impact on our planet.”

This new chapter in UAE–Finland cooperation reflects a shared vision for sustainable development, scientific innovation, and a stronger global response to climate change.