2021 has been a remarkable year for the United Arab Emirates: In April, Unit 1 of Barakah Nuclear Power Plant has become commercially operating and being the largest source of electricity generation in the country. In addition, Unit 2 of Barakah received the operating license and is undergoing all necessary tests in preparation for commercial operation.  In all, FANR is overseeing such operations to ensure the safety and security of the power plant as well as protection of the community, workers and the environment.

Barakah Nuclear Power Plant is one of the UAE's mega projects. FANR has played a pivotal role in regulating the power plant from construction to operation; thus, materializing the UAE's government vision to diversify its sources of energy where nuclear energy will provide 25% of UAE electricity once fully operational. The nuclear power plant will provide 6% of power according to the UAE's 2050 Energy Strategy. FANR, with its integrated regulatory infrastructure, succeeded in making the UAE the first country in the Arab region to operate a peaceful nuclear power plant.

In licensing the nuclear power plant from construction to operation to decommission, FANR developed an integrated licensing methodology to ensure meet all regulatory requirements covering safety, security and safeguards to protect the environment and community. FANR developed regulations based on best international practices and adopted them fit the UAE conditions in a short span of time. It developed a unique collaboration with international partners to optimize the licensing process by using international experts and those from Korean licensing authorities, having a similar plant.

Furthermore, FANR conducted in-depth review and incorporated lessons learned from the Fukushima Nuclear Accident, approving 31 safety designs to Barakah. FANR is having around the clock inspection using its resident inspectors at the sites. FANR also led the development of security and safeguards programmes in line with international practices and UAE's international obligations. FANR adopted a transparent methodology where it hosed 12 review missions from the IAEA to review the UAE Nuclear Energy Programme.

Following the operation of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, FANR will continue the regulatory oversight activities to ensure the safety and security of the nuclear power plant as well as the people and the environment.