During the visit, the Uzbek side got acquainted with the activities of the National Meteorological Center of Saudi Arabia, as well as its structural units: the Regional Center for Sand and Dust Storms, the Regional Center for Climate Change and the Cloud Seeding Program.
The Saudi National Meteorological Center demonstrates the effective integration of science, digital technologies and public administration. The work uses satellite data, aerosol observations, ground stations and artificial intelligence-based solutions. The Center has implemented highly accurate regional climate models, generated historical databases and develops long-term forecasts. They are used to assess the risks of drought, soil degradation and desertification. Analytical materials are systematically provided to decision-making bodies in agriculture, water resources and environmental safety.
The delegation paid special attention to the state program of active weather control. Since 2019, the country has been implementing a large-scale cloud seeding program, which allows increasing precipitation in the areas of operations by an average of 15-20%. The technological base includes specialized aircraft, Doppler radars, satellite systems and modern laboratories. According to the data provided, the program provides additional supply of up to 2-3 billion cubic meters of water per year, contributing to sustainable water resources management and support for agriculture.
During the talks, areas of cooperation in the field of climate modeling, monitoring of sand and dust storms, early warning systems, personnel training and joint scientific research were discussed.
The experience gained is of practical interest for the formation of a national climate data platform in Uzbekistan, the introduction of high-precision regional modeling for Central Asia and the development of climate services for the agricultural sector, water management and energy.
Special attention is paid to academic cooperation with Green University, the organization of internships, joint publications and the development of educational programs.
Following the visit, the possibility of organizing a technical mission of Saudi specialists to Uzbekistan and launching a pilot project on regional climate modeling is being considered.
