The United Arab Emirates is preparing to launch a tender for a new nuclear plant that would double the number of nuclear reactors in the Gulf state.

The United Arab Emirates plans to build four new nuclear reactors this year, and this project aims to increase the country's nuclear energy capacity and meet its growing energy needs by 2032.

The bid will be open to companies from around the world, including US, Chinese and Russian companies, and sources indicate that South Korea, which built the first Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE, will not be treated as a preferred bidder.

The United Arab Emirates emphasizes that its nuclear program is peaceful and is used only for energy purposes, and the country seeks to reduce its dependence on oil and achieve its climate goals by investing in nuclear energy.

The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, built by South Korea in Abu Dhabi, is an important source of energy in the United Arab Emirates, and the plant’s fourth and final reactor is expected to begin commercial operation this year. This will make the nuclear power plant fully operational.

The UAE's plans to build a second nuclear plant represent an important step towards achieving its goals in the field of nuclear energy, and these plans demonstrate the country's commitment to diversifying energy sources and achieving its climate goals. However, these plans may also raise diplomatic concerns with the United States, especially regarding the possibility of Russia or China participating in the project.