The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) and Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Seoul to explore international opportunities in nuclear energy, as global demand for clean and scalable electricity intensifies.
The agreement builds on the longstanding UAE-Korea partnership in the nuclear sector and aims to advance civil nuclear deployment in line with projections by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), both of which foresee a sharp rise in global nuclear capacity through 2030 and 2050.
The MoU outlines a framework for knowledge sharing, joint project evaluations, strategic investment assessments, and includes the formation of a joint working group to identify areas of mutual interest.
It aligns with ENEC’s international strategy to partner with global entities to accelerate deployment of both large-scale and advanced nuclear technologies.
ENEC focused on global partnerships
With the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant now fully operational, ENEC is shifting focus to global collaboration and advisory roles to support the rapid deployment of nuclear energy. “MOUs with companies such as Hyundai E&C are a clear demonstration of this approach,” the company stated.
Hyundai E&C, the lead contractor on the Barakah Plant, is recognised for its contribution to the UAE’s Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program, widely seen as a model for safe and efficient nuclear development.
The company plans to leverage its experience from Barakah to expand strategic cooperation in future international projects.
The partnership comes amid a broader resurgence in nuclear energy investment, driven by growing electricity demand from AI, hyperscale data centres, heavy industry, and accelerating electrification. With global grids under increasing strain, nuclear power is being viewed as a proven, low-carbon solution for baseload generation.
According to the IEA, nuclear capacity must expand by an average of 15 GW per year to 2030, representing just over 3 per cent annual growth. The IAEA forecasts an even more aggressive expansion, suggesting capacity could double by 2050.
The MoU adds to a growing list of international partnerships ENEC has formed with operators, developers, and energy companies as part of its drive to scale civil nuclear energy, improve energy security, and reduce carbon emissions. The four-unit Barakah Plant has provided ENEC with hands-on expertise in timely and cost-effective nuclear deployment, now serving as a platform for global collaboration.
Hyundai E&C received global recognition for its role in Barakah, particularly in risk management and construction execution.
As UAE–Korea cooperation in energy deepens, both parties expect to broaden their strategic engagement in the global nuclear sector.
Read: ENEC, Westinghouse ink MoU to accelerate nuclear energy deployment in US
