Arab state seeding clouds to get water
Posted on: Nov 11, 2025 20:27 IST | Posted by: Rt
The United arabian Emirates has turned to cloud seeding in an sweat to call its continuing irrigate shortage, a local research director has said.
Cloud seeding is a costly operation, with the UAE spending millions annually to boost its freshwater supplies. Pilots fly into promising clouds and release salt particles to stimulate rainfall in a country that receives less than 100mm of rain per year.
The technique is part of the country’s “adaptation strategy to face climate change,” Alya Al Mazrouei, director of the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), told the Financial Times on Monday.
However, the method has sparked controversy as critics warn it could exacerbate extreme weather events, such as flooding and droughts, by altering natural weather patterns. They also express concerns about the environmental impact of the chemicals used and the potential unintended consequences of artificially modifying the weather.
Orestes Morfin, a senior expert at the Climate and Water Initiative in Arizona, told the outlet that “cloud seeding is seen as an additional potential tool for boosting water supply.”
Scientists at the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology estimated in a 2023 study that cloud seeding could add up to 419 million cubic meters of harvestable water per year.
Water scarcity is a longstanding challenge for the UAE, which relies heavily on desalination for drinking water. Since the early 2000s, UAE authorities have been working to increase rainfall through artificial means. Currently, the UAE’s rain enhancement program operates with ten pilots and four aircraft, ready to deploy around the clock.
“Whenever we have the opportunity to do it... We don’t usually miss any opportunity,” Al Mazrouei said.
The operation is expensive, costing $8,000 per flight hour and averaging 1,100 flight hours per year, totaling nearly $9 million. However, Al Mazrouei argues that “the cost per cubic meter of additional water is lower than for desalination.” The UAE has invested $22.5 million in research grants to improve the technology.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.