NEWS The visit of Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, the President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), to Umeå on 15 August underscores the global significance of the Arctic Centre. Through long-term strategic initiatives, Umeå University’s Arctic research engages directly with international organisations tackling climate change. The visit reaffirms the university’s role in polar science and shows that WMO regard the Arctic as vital to future climate solutions.
From the left: Mr. Monikumar Ramakrishnan, Ms. Mary Power, Dr. Keith Larson, Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Dr. Ulf Jonsell, Dr. Maria Grigoratou, Mr. Ibrahim Al Hosani, and Dr. Wenjian Zhang.
Image Simon OjaWhen the world’s leading organisations in climate and meteorology choose to visit Umeå University, it shows that we are more than a strong research environment – we are a natural partner in the effort for building a sustainable Arctic
The Arctic plays a pivotal role as the Earth’s cooling system, and knowledge connects it far beyond its borders. That WMO President Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, who also serves as Director General of the United Arab Emirates’ National Centre of Meteorology, chose to visit the Arctic Centre in Umeå highlights the international relevance and appeal of the university’s research and position in the Arctic.
From the left: Dr. Wenjian Zhang, Mr. Ibrahim Al Hosani, Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, and Ms. Mary Power.
Image Monica BörlinThe Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Thomas Olofsson, welcomed the delegation and introduced Umeå University and the Arctic Centre. The programme continued with presentations from researchers showcasing the breadth of Arctic science at Umeå: permafrost hydrology, space weather, ecosystem modelling, and indigenous livelihoods. Key national and European organisations, including the Sámi Council, the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat, and the European Polar Board, presented other important perspectives.
The discussions highlighted the need for stronger international collaboration in preparing for major initiatives such as the International Polar Year 2032–33 and the Emirates Polar Research Programme launch—a clear signal of the country’s ambition to become an active partner in international polar science.
“When the world’s leading organisations in climate and meteorology choose to visit Umeå University, it shows that we are more than a strong research environment – we are a natural partner in the effort for building a sustainable Arctic,” says Keith Larson, Director of the Arctic Centre.
He also emphasises the importance of visits like this:
“By creating meeting places where research connects with society and decision-makers, we can drive forward knowledge that makes a difference. Our ambition is to support societally relevant research and be the primary contact point for those seeking to contribute to a positive Arctic future.”
The visit underlines the global weight of the Arctic issues discussed in Umeå and the university’s role in bringing together researchers, decision-makers, and societal actors. Through such encounters, new knowledge gains momentum and becomes a catalyst for change – in the Arctic and beyond.
