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The Nuclear Threat Initiative in collaboration with the Economist Intelligence Unit placed the UAE fourth globally out of 48 assessed nations for safeguarding nuclear sites against acts of sabotage according to its 2026 Nuclear Security Index. The assessment also positioned the country 15th among 154 countries and territories in supporting worldwide efforts to prevent the theft of nuclear materials with a score of 85 out of 100, an increase of two points from the recalculated 2023 baseline. The independent evaluation considers security and control measures, adherence to international standards, national commitments and capabilities as well as the overall risk environment. The index highlighted notable advances in the UAE’s security and control category where the score rose from 66 points in 2023 to 86 points in 2026.
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation issued a statement on the ranking that underscores the effectiveness of the UAE’s regulatory oversight for its peaceful nuclear energy program. According to the authority the results reflect sustained investment in physical protection systems, regulatory frameworks and international cooperation aligned with standards set by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation maintains independent oversight of all nuclear and radiological activities within the country including the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant which supplies around 25 percent of national electricity needs.
FANR’s 2025 annual report detailed 36 inspections conducted at the Barakah facility throughout the year to verify operator compliance with safety security and non-proliferation requirements. The authority carried out more than 800 additional inspections across medical industrial and other licensed facilities to ensure safe handling of radioactive materials and confirm that nuclear materials serve exclusively peaceful purposes. FANR participated in 15 national and international emergency exercises and drills during 2025 working alongside domestic stakeholders and partners including the International Atomic Energy Agency.
A FANR assessment found that the UAE has secured the IAEA’s broader conclusion status for the third consecutive year confirming full adherence to nuclear non-proliferation obligations under the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement and Additional Protocol. The regulator certified more than 40 reactor operators and senior reactor operators in 2025 bringing the total at Barakah to 300 personnel essential for continued safe operations. FANR is currently reviewing a periodic safety assessment submitted by the plant operator covering design ageing management and safety culture.
The authority hosted the 8th International Symposium on the System of Radiological Protection in 2025 which drew more than 600 global experts to address advancements in radiation protection medical applications artificial intelligence and environmental safeguards. FANR also introduced the Nuclear and Radiation Excellence Award to honor contributions to the sector’s development according to its annual summary. International Atomic Energy Agency data has consistently recognized the UAE’s transparent approach to safeguards and emergency preparedness.
The UAE’s nuclear program launched under a 2008 national policy emphasizes the highest levels of safety security and non-proliferation with FANR established in 2009 as the independent regulator. A review by the International Atomic Energy Agency has praised measures implemented at Barakah following an external incident that left radiation levels unchanged and all units in safe configuration. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation continues to coordinate with global partners to strengthen emergency response capabilities and share best practices across the nuclear sector.
