By Staff Reporter
The United Arab Emirates has been ranked fourth among 48 countries in the 2026 Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) Nuclear Security Index, reflecting significant improvements in measures designed to protect nuclear facilities and materials from security threats.
The latest assessment, developed by the NTI in partnership with Economist Enterprise, evaluates countries on nuclear security and control measures, adherence to international standards, domestic commitments and the wider risk environment.
The UAE recorded one of the strongest improvements in the security and control measures category, with its score rising from 66 in 2023 to 86 in 2026.
The improvement was attributed to strengthened requirements for nuclear facility protection, enhanced cybersecurity measures and tighter personnel security and vetting procedures.
The UAE also ranked joint 15th among 154 countries and areas assessed on efforts to prevent the theft of nuclear materials. It scored 85 out of 100, two points above its recalculated 2023 baseline.
Hamad Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), said the ranking reflected the UAE’s long-term efforts to develop a strong and continuously improving nuclear security system.
He said maintaining nuclear security requires continued vigilance from regulators and operators as security risks evolve.
Since its establishment, FANR has developed an integrated regulatory framework covering nuclear facilities and radioactive materials, while working with the International Atomic Energy Agency and other international partners to strengthen expertise and capabilities.
The NTI identified the UAE among 12 countries emerging as new drivers of global nuclear security, citing improvements within the country as well as its support for other governments and engagement with international institutions.
The latest ranking comes as the UAE continues to expand its peaceful nuclear energy programme while strengthening its regulatory and security systems.
Source: Emirates News Agency
