In light of looming peak demand for electricity, the UAE faces an energy crossroads. Which form of alternative energy is most viable? Business conference organizer, Leaders Presents, a division of the Institute for International Research Middle East, recently held a poll among 300 regional business leaders. 92% support government research initiatives for alternative fuel sources. With the expectation that the UAE’s annual electricity demand will reach 40,000 megawatts by 2020, a quick and practical solution is needed. While safe methods of radioactive waste disposal must be explored, 69% of surveyed business officials prefer nuclear energy to continued reliance on crude oil as it leaves no carbon footprint. Although nuclear energy is the most practical solution, the world questions the nuclear intentions of the small Middle Eastern state. The UAE’s recently launched Policy on the Evaluation and Potential Development of Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programs clarifies the direction and aspirations of its
