UAE's first nuclear power plant begins commercial operations

DUBAI: The UAE’s first nuclear power plant commenced commercial operations on Tuesday, the country's leaders announced on Twitter.

The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi was established as part of the UAE efforts to diversify its energy sector. 

“The first megawatt from the first Arab nuclear plant has entered the national power grid,” wrote Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on



Twitter.

“The effort of 10 years and 2,000 engineers and Emirati young men and 80 international partners... and the vision of a leader who put the UAE in an unprecedented developmental position...”

Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan said it was a historic milestone for the country, which this year celebrates 50 years since its formation.

Unit 1 received its operating license from the nuclear regulator in 2020, three years after its expected planned start up in 2017.