United Arab Emirates: The first nuclear power plant in the Arab world is now operational.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a significant milestone with the complete activation of the Barakah nuclear power plant. Located near Abu Dhabi, the plant is now fully operational, with all four reactors producing electricity.
Barakah, which cost $24.4 billion, will generate 40 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity annually, meeting up to 25% of the UAE's energy needs. This is a major step towards reducing the country's reliance on oil exports. Construction began in 2020, and the plant produced its first megawatt hours in 2021.
The UAE is the first Arab nation to have a nuclear power plant. While Iran already had one, Saudi Arabia also sought to develop its own nuclear infrastructure.
A Pillar of Energy Transition Despite being a major oil exporter, the UAE aims to diversify its energy sources. The country is investing in renewable energies and nuclear power, aligning with its commitments at COP28.
Barakah's electricity will not only supply homes but also power industries like Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Emirates Steel, and Emirates Global Aluminium. This new source of energy is both controllable and decarbonized.
Geopolitical Considerations The UAE insists that its nuclear program is solely civilian and non-military. However, some neighboring countries, such as Qatar, express concerns due to the plant's proximity to Iran. The UAE and Qatar have had strained diplomatic relations since 2017.
You can monitor the Barakah nuclear plant's production in real time on the Emirates Nuclear Energy Agency website.
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