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No radiation leak: UAE investigates drone source after Barakah nuclear plant attack
Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the nuclear plant or the operational readiness of its core systems
- PUBLISHED: Sun 17 May 2026, 2:42 PM UPDATED: Sun 17 May 2026, 6:27 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow the Khaleej Times live blog for the latest regional developments with the US-Israel-Iran ceasefire now in effect.]
The UAE's defence ministry on Sunday said authorities are investigating the source of a drone strike that caused a fire at an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra region in Abu Dhabi.
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On May 17, the UAE air defences engaged three drones that entered the country from the western border. Two UAVs were successfully intercepted, while a third one hit a generator near the nuclear facility. Updates will be announced once the investigation is completed, the authority said.
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Earlier in the day, Abu Dhabi Media Office confirmed that the blaze did not result in any injuries and had no impact on radiation safety levels at the facility. All precautionary measures have been implemented by the emergency teams, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) also confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the nuclear plant or the operational readiness of its core systems. It added that all units at the Barakah facility continue to operate normally.
IAEA expressed "grave concern"
The UN atomic watchdog, the IAEA, expressed "grave concern" over a drone strike near the nuclear plant and said that radiation levels remained normal.
The International Atomic Energy Agency on X said its head, Rafael Grossi, voiced the concern and added: "Military activity that threatens nuclear safety is unacceptable."
"The IAEA has been informed by the UAE that radiation levels at the Barakah NPP (nuclear power plant) remain normal and no injuries were reported," the agency said.
During the ongoing regional conflict, Iranian strikes responding to US–Israeli attacks have impacted multiple neighbouring countries, affecting UAE infrastructure and energy facilities. Targets across the Emirates have included oil and gas installations and civilian infrastructure such as residential buildings, hotels, airport, and port.
Although UAE officials did not attribute blame for the attack and no party claimed responsibility yet, the strike near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant marks a notable development, as it is the first drone-related incident in the country to occur in proximity to a nuclear facility.
Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant
In September 2025, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) marked one year since the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant achieved full-fleet operations. All four APR1400 reactor units are together generating 25% of the UAE’s electricity needs, significantly expanding the UAE’s baseload electricity production to boost national energy security and sustainability.
The plant, located in the Al Dhafra region, operates under strict regulatory oversight by the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR). It is continuously monitored to ensure safety, security, and environmental protection. The plant generates large-scale zero-carbon electricity and is a key pillar of the UAE’s energy diversification strategy. It contributes to grid stability while meeting international nuclear safety standards confirmed through ongoing regulatory inspections and industry assessments.
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.