UAE ranks fourth globally in nuclear facility protection

The UAE has ranked fourth among 48 countries in the 2026 Nuclear Threat Initiative Nuclear Security Index for protecting nuclear facilities against sabotage. The ranking reflects the continued development of the UAE's nuclear security framework, WAM reported.

What is the UAE's rank in nuclear security?

The UAE ranks fourth out of 48 countries assessed for sabotage protection at nuclear facilities. It also ranked joint 15th among 154 countries and areas for countering nuclear material theft, scoring 85 out of 100. That marks a two-point rise from the recalculated 2023 baseline.

What is the NTI Nuclear Security Index?

The 2026 NTI Nuclear Security Index is an independent global assessment of nuclear security conditions. It was developed by the Nuclear Threat Initiative in partnership with Economist Enterprise.

The index evaluates countries across several measures. These include security and control measures, international norms, domestic commitments and capacity, and the broader risk environment.

How much has the UAE's security score improved?

The 2026 index highlighted significant progress in the UAE's security and control measures. The UAE's score in this category rose from 66 in 2023 to 86 in 2026.

These measures cover key elements of nuclear security. They include physical protection, insider threat prevention, response capabilities, cybersecurity and security culture.

NTI pointed to several developments behind the UAE's progress. These include strengthened requirements for nuclear facility protection, updated cybersecurity provisions, enhanced personnel vetting requirements and measures to boost preparedness and resilience.

What did FANR say about the UAE's nuclear security ranking?

Hamad Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, said the UAE's performance reflects its long-term commitment to a robust and continuously improving nuclear security regime. He said it demonstrates the strength of the UAE's regulatory framework and effective national coordination.

Al Kaabi said the nuclear security environment continues to evolve, requiring regulators and operators to stay vigilant. He said the UAE will keep strengthening its capabilities and working with national and international partners.

What role does FANR play in nuclear security?

FANR has developed and strengthened an integrated regulatory framework for nuclear security since its establishment. The framework follows national legislation and the UAE's international obligations and commitments.

FANR regulates nuclear facilities and nuclear and radioactive materials. It conducts inspections and oversees compliance with nuclear security requirements alongside relevant national entities.

The UAE continues to work with the International Atomic Energy Agency and international partners. The cooperation aims to exchange expertise, strengthen national capabilities and support global nuclear security efforts.

How does the UAE compare globally on nuclear security?

NTI identified the UAE among 12 countries emerging as a new driving force for global nuclear security progress in its 2026 assessment. The recognition covers countries that sustained domestic improvements, supported other governments and strengthened engagement with international institutions.

The UAE's performance in the index reflects its commitment to continuous improvement. It also points to a nuclear security regime capable of responding to evolving risks while contributing to the global nuclear security architecture.