National Center of Meteorology (NCM) of Saudi Arabia - Modernization Project
- WMO Integrated Global Observing System
- Capacity Development
- Global Framework for Climate Services
- Governance
Project background
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) of Saudi Arabia Modernization Project is a five-year initiative (June 2026 – June 2031), funded by the NCM and implemented under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and NCM Saudi Arabia. The project aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia's meteorological, early warning, and climate service capabilities in support of Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives, and relevant WMO frameworks and standards. Through a phased modernization approach, the project will enhance NCM's operational capabilities, strengthen institutional resilience, and reinforce its regional leadership while improving the delivery of weather, climate, and early warning services.
Phase I – Foundational Enhancements focuses on four complementary components developed jointly by WMO and NCM following a comprehensive technical assessment and a series of technical consultations: Observations, Forecasting, Information Technology & Cybersecurity, and Institutional Communications. Together, these investments will further strengthen the foundations of a modern, integrated, and internationally leading National Meteorological Service, creating the capabilities and enabling environment for NCM’s continued transformation and future modernization phases.
Objective(s)
- Strengthen NCM's observing network through strategic planning, enhanced maintenance and calibration, advanced implementation of WIGOS and GBON standards, and improved real-time monitoring capabilities.
- Enhance forecasting and multi-hazard early warning services by strengthening operational procedures, technical capacities, and specialized forecasting services for aviation, marine, and high-impact weather.
- Modernize NCM's digital infrastructure and cybersecurity by improving data management, IT systems, artificial intelligence applications, WIS 2.0 implementation, and cyber resilience.
- Strengthen institutional, human capacity and governance through targeted capacity development, international benchmarking, strategic planning, and enhanced internal and external communication.
Expected outcomes
- Improved accuracy, timeliness, and reliability of meteorological, climate, and early warning services delivered by NCM.
- Enhanced alignment with and implementation of relevant WMO standards and frameworks.
- Increased operational efficiency through modernized observing systems, forecasting processes, and secure digital infrastructure.
- Strengthened national capacity to deliver impact-based, multi-hazard early warning services for key sectors
- Enhanced technical competencies of NCM staff
- Reinforced regional leadership of NCM
- Improved organizational governance, coordination, and communication.
Project team
- Region:
- Region II: Asia