Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The UAE is the first Arab country to produce nuclear energy, after it was announced on Saturday that Unit 1 of the Abu Dhabi-based Barakah nuclear power plant is now operational.

Commercial operations of the reactor are expected to begin later this year, and will help power businesses and homes across the nation using clean energy.

Unit 1 is now using nuclear fuel to produce energy as part of the ‘criticality’ phase that was initiated on Friday. The reactor will be connected to the power grid and provide electricity during the upcoming testing phase.

"Today we announce the UAE’s success in operating the first peaceful nuclear reactor in the Arab world at Barakah Nuclear Plant Abu Dhabi," Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said on Twitter

"The teams succeeded in loading nuclear fuel packages, running comprehensive tests and successfully beginning operation. I congratulate my brother Mohamed bin Zayed for this achievement.

"The goal is to operate four nuclear power plants that will provide one quarter of the country’s energy needs in a safe, reliable and emission-free way.