Four UAE Scientists Join Four New Zealand Scientists to Present Works on Antarctic Research and Climate Science
Four faculty members from the Polar Research Center at Khalifa University of Science and Technology have been invited to participate in the 2026/2027 expedition to the New Zealand Antarctic Research Station. The invitation was extended when four leading New Zealand scientists presented their research focusing on Antarctica during a UAE–New Zealand Polar Research Mini-Symposium, marking a milestone in international collaboration on Antarctic research and climate science. The UAE scientists.
Dr. Diana Francis, Dr. Aisha Alsuwaidi, Dr. Maryam Al Shehhi, and Dr. Mohamed (Ramy) El-Maarry along with the New Zealand researchers covered topics including ‘Atmospheric measurements and greenhouse gas emissions in Antarctica’, ‘Marine science’, and ‘Ice sheet dynamics and climate modeling’. Organized in partnership with Antarctica New Zealand, the online symposium was attended by Wassim Said, Advisor to the International Affairs Office, UAE Presidential Court and Steering Committee Member of the Emirates Polar Program, and Sam O’Connor, Deputy Ambassador of New Zealand to the UAE.
His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President, Khalifa University, and Director, Polar Research Center, said: “This symposium reflects Khalifa University’s commitment to advancing global climate research and fostering partnerships that drive impactful scientific discoveries. Collaboration with Antarctica New Zealand opens new avenues for understanding one of Earth’s most critical ecosystems. By combining our complementary expertise, we can unlock new opportunities for groundbreaking research in Antarctica, contributing to global climate understanding and environmental stewardship.”
The event was co-chaired by Professor Samuel Mao, member of the management team of the Polar Research Center at Khalifa University, and Dr. Jordy Hendrikx, Chief Executive Officer of Antarctica New Zealand — the government agency responsible for New Zealand’s activities in Antarctica and supporting world-leading science and environmental protection.
Both sides agreed that the synergy from the partnership offers significant opportunities for joint research, opening new horizons for Antarctic science collaboration and marking a milestone in Antarctic Science collaboration.
Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
