India and the UAE are strengthening scientific ties in Antarctica, with Emirati researchers from Khalifa University joining India’s 45th Antarctic Expedition at the Maitri research station. This marks active polar cooperation following a key MoU signed on December 13, 2024. The team studies Antarctica’s extreme, Mars-like landscapes near Amery Ice Shelf and Lambert Glacier to advance polar science, planetary studies, climate research, and earth sciences. This multi-institutional program refines geological links between India and Antarctica, aiding global climate action and data sharing.
The agreement, inked by UAE’s Abdulla Balalaa and India’s M. Ravichandran at the 15th UAE-India Joint Committee Meeting, boosts joint missions in Antarctica and the Arctic. It promotes collaboration on polar ecosystems, ocean research, and space-linked studies between Emirates Polar Program and India’s NCPOR.
India’s Maitri station, operational since 1989, supports year-round research. UAE’s involvement enhances its polar presence, launched in 2024, while fostering Global South partnerships. Future plans include Maitri-II for advanced data contributions. This partnership underscores growing India-UAE bonds in science and sustainability, leveraging India’s expertise in two research stations (Dakshin Gangotri and Maitri) for shared innovation.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What sparked the India-UAE Antarctic collaboration?
A MoU signed December 13, 2024, between Emirates Polar Program and India’s NCPOR during the 15th UAE-India Joint Committee Meeting, enabling joint polar and ocean research missions.
2. Where and what do the joint teams study?
Emirati scientists from Khalifa University joined India’s 45th Expedition at Maitri station, focusing on Mars-like landscapes in Amery Ice Shelf/Lambert Glacier for polar, planetary, and climate science.
3. What are the partnership’s main goals?
Support joint Antarctic/Arctic missions, data sharing, and research on climate change, polar ecosystems, earth systems, enhancing UAE’s polar science role via India’s established infrastructure.