Challenges of Research Reactors Optimal Utilization in Arab Countries

Many Arab countries have plans to build or consider building research reactors. The human resources development is the most concerned issue for a successful Arab nuclear power program. The aim of this paper is to present the current status of the research reactors in Arab countries in terms of their utilization and safe management. As most of the research reactor facilities are not being fully utilized, the AAEA plays an important role in coordination between Arab countries in optimizing the utilization of research reactors and strengthening their safety and regulation infrastructure. (author)