"The Middle Eastern countries investing in renewable energy are Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, which are expected to drive the region's renewable energy growth, primarily through solar PV."

The Middle East Green initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability and reduce the region's reliance on oil, as part of a broader effort to transition to a more sustainable economy.

Saudi Arabia launched the Middle East Green Initiative, as part of its efforts towards environmental sustainability and sustainable development, reflected in various national projects such as NEOM, Green Riyadh, and Green Saudi Arabia.

"The Middle East is experiencing significant growth in renewable energy, with five Arab countries expected to account for 72% of the region's total growth by 2027, and the region seeing a 12.8% increase in new renewable energy capacity in 2022."

"The Middle East is promoting renewable energy, with a projected three-fold growth in capacity over the next five years, led by countries such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with solar PV making up over 85% of the increase."

The Middle East's energy landscape is changing due to the transition to clean energy, driven by the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and sustainable clean energy sources.

"Saudi Arabia aims to achieve 50% of renewable energy by 2030, increasing from its current 0.3%."

The UAE aims to increase its share of clean energy to 50% by 2050.

"The Middle Eastern countries investing in solar energy are Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Morocco, which are expected to drive the region's renewable energy growth over the next five years."

The UAE is investing up to $54.5 billion in renewable energy as part of its transition to a low-carbon future.

"Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 program aims to increase the proportion of renewable energy to 50% by 2030."

"The Middle Eastern countries investing in renewable energy are Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, which are expected to drive the region's renewable energy growth, primarily through solar PV."

Title:

Content: MUSCAT: Renewable capacity expansion in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is projected to grow three-fold over the next five years (2023 – 2028), with the Sultanate of Oman ranked among the front-runners in driving this growth. According to a new report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), Oman’s renewables capacity growth is set to be the fourth largest in the region after Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Morocco.

These countries will account for the lion’s share of the 62 gigawatt (GW) increase in renewables capacity anticipated in the region by 2028, the Paris-based intergovernmental agency noted in its newly published report. “Over the next five years, the pace of growth is expected to accelerate to more than three times the previous five-year period, with solar PV making up over 85 per cent of the increase. Onshore wind and concentrated solar power also contribute,” said the IEA in its report, titled ‘Renewables 2023: Analysis and forecast to 2028’.

Driving much of this growth will be efforts by individual countries to decarbonize their electricity generation, but green hydrogen production is set to play a major role as well, according to the report. This is particularly the case in Saudi Arabia, UAE and Oman, it pointed out. “In fact, hydrogen accounts for more than 13 per cent of the region’s renewable capacity growth thanks to government policies to stimulate development for trade. Good solar resources, land availability and existing port infrastructure create favourable conditions for economically attractive renewable hydrogen to be shipped to demand centres in Europe and Asia,” the agency further stated.

Additionally, the report reaffirmed Oman’s positioning among the world’s top exporters of renewable hydrogen. It said: “By 2028, potential export countries could account for over one-fifth of hydrogen-driven renewable capacity deployment, led by Saudi Arabia, Australia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. With the prospect of producing economically attractive renewable hydrogen to ship to potential demand centres in Europe and Asia, these countries aim to become major exporters of renewable hydrogen and hydrogen-based fuels.”

A revised Renewable Energy Plan enshrined in Oman’s 2040 Vision seeks to secure 16 per cent of electricity from renewables by 2025, rising to 30 per cent by 2030. Clean energy capacity is projected to rise to 2.6 GW by 2025 under the National Energy Master Plan. Supplementing this strategy is a commitment to embracing green hydrogen to, on the one hand, decarbonise the economy, and on the other to evolve into a major producer and exporter of renewable hydrogen. Green hydrogen output is targeted at around 1 million tonnes per annum by 2030.

2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

The Middle East Green initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability and reduce the region's reliance on oil, as part of a broader effort to transition to a more sustainable economy.

Title:

Content: The Green Middle East Initiative.
Integration and Interaction
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The Kingdom has done well in launching the Green Middle East Initiative, and this is not the first and will not be the last, and it is no stranger to the Kingdom, it has launched many initiatives for peace, environment, dialogue of cultures, relief and reconstruction.
Based on the concerns of the Crown Prince, the godfather of the Kingdom ’ s Vision 2030, the environment and sustainable development, which was reflected in the giant NEOM project, the Green Riyadh Initiative, and Green Saudi Arabia, and the accompanying issuance of new legislation and the establishment of new bodies, in recognition of the importance of the environment to achieve sustainable development, and before that the survival of human health and safety.
A few days ago, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz inaugurated the summit of the “Green Middle East Initiative ” in Riyadh, and it enjoyed an international interaction reflected in a wide international participation that includes heads of state and decision-makers in the world.
The Green Middle East Initiative summit aims to “draw a regional map to preserve and raise the quality of life ” to address the challenges of climate change and its impact on the natural environment, humans and animals.
The initiative included reducing carbon emissions by more than 10 per cent of international requirements and planting 50 billion trees, or about 10 trees per Arab citizen, contributing to the achievement of approximately 5 per cent of the global afforestation target.
He pointed out that the Kingdom believes that traditional energy sources were the most important reasons for the transformation of the countries of the region and the world from traditional economies to globally active economies, and the main engine and motivation for the fastest economic growth that humanity has ever known.
Today, we are ushering in a new green era for the region, leading it together, believing that the effects of climate change are not limited to the natural environment, but include the economy and security. ”
Thus, the Kingdom has contributed to the great global economic growth after the Second World War through the production of conventional energy, and today it is taking the initiative to reduce carbon and develop clean energy through the concept of circular economy, and the establishment of a regional center to monitor and study climate change.
The summit resulted in a new initiative to establish a regional storm early warning centre to help reduce health risks from dust waves.
In addition, the summit statement pointed out that the Kingdom will work to establish a regional center for the sustainable development of fisheries to contribute to raising marine biodiversity and reducing the level of emissions in the fish sector, and the establishment of a regional program for cloud seeding to contribute to raising the level of rainfall by about 20%.
The summit paid particular attention to the degradation of vegetation in Africa and called for the establishment of the Green Initiative Foundation as an independent non-profit.
All the countries of the Middle East region, especially the world in general, must join hands in order to protect our blue planet from environmental pollution and desertification and the resulting climate change, which has no consequences for the future of life on this planet.
Finally, it is wrong to believe that a positive change in the field of environmental conservation within the Green Middle East initiative costs a lot, and can only be launched with the availability of significant resources.
Indeed, much can be achieved with simple efforts and reasonable costs, especially if there is a strong will in each State.
For example, the creation of uniform and strict legislation to protect the environment does not cost much. Similarly, raising the level of environmental awareness does not cost much with the presence of will and management. Volunteering in the field of the environment in general and afforestation in particular is popular with many and willing to participate in increasing afforestation, especially with private sector enterprises in social responsibility efforts.
This will enhance the success of the Green Middle East Initiative, especially with the generous support of billions of riyals, of which the Kingdom will contribute significantly.
Publish it.

Saudi Arabia launched the Middle East Green Initiative, as part of its efforts towards environmental sustainability and sustainable development, reflected in various national projects such as NEOM, Green Riyadh, and Green Saudi Arabia.

"The Middle East is experiencing significant growth in renewable energy, with five Arab countries expected to account for 72% of the region's total growth by 2027, and the region seeing a 12.8% increase in new renewable energy capacity in 2022."

Title:

Content: Sunday, 24 September 2023 02: 03 GMT
2030 Arab Goal to Advance Renewable Energy Capabilities Globally
(MENAFN- Al-Bayan) $(resize) .css ('font-size', newFontSize); return false;});});
Several Arab countries are accelerating to keep pace with the international aspiration to achieve the goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030, which is receiving widespread attention, amid various plans and strategies at national levels in many countries.
The Arab countries that are likely to play the largest role in this regard, according to industry experts, are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria and Morocco, by injecting more investments into this vital and promising sector.
During the recent G20 summit in New Delhi in September, G20 leaders expressed their support for all efforts to increase renewable energy capacity and pledged to accelerate measures to address environmental crises and challenges.
With this growing international interest in the energy transition, the plans are facing many challenges, including (but not limited to) access to finance, especially for low- and middle-income countries, with significant investment required over the coming years.
(Al-Bayan), a group of American academics and specialists in the renewable energy sector were surveyed about the main opportunities and challenges on the way to increase the desired capacity, the investments required to achieve that goal, and the extent of its expected environmental and economic repercussions.
Huge spikes.
Achieving the ambitious goal of doubling global renewable energy capacity in the near term will be reflected concretely in several contexts, explains Gregory Nemet, a specialist in the analysis of international energy systems and environmental policies at the University of Wisconsin. By 2030, it will deliver significant benefits in terms of jobs, economic development, and improved air quality, as well as putting the world on the path to addressing climate change in the long term.
“The costs of renewable energy, especially solar and wind, have dropped dramatically over the last 10 years, and most experts expect them to continue to fall, ” says Nemet, explaining that a clean, affordable source of energy creates huge opportunities, allowing global renewable energy capacity to be tripled by taking full advantage of it.
According to Nemet, the 3-fold increase also presents challenges, such as “access to finance for low- and middle-income countries, and investments in electricity grids to accommodate this growth ”, stressing that“ challenges can be overcome through sustained efforts and supportive policies, as we have seen many examples in the recent past. ” A sign of broad international cooperation is required in this regard.
Last year, renewable energy capacity (globally) increased by 9.6 percent to 3,372 gigawatts, an increase of a record 295 gigawatts, despite global uncertainty in light of geopolitical developments and the Ukrainian war, according to data published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) on March 22.
Almost half of the new capacity from renewable energy in Asia has been added, with China contributing more than 141 gigawatts to the new capacity of the entire continent.
Renewable energy sources in Europe and the United States grew by 57.3 gigawatts and 29.1 gigawatts respectively.
African capacity increased slightly by 2.7 gigawatts.
According to IRENA data, although hydropower accounts for the largest share of total global renewable energy capacity at 1,250 gigawatts, solar and wind power continue to dominate new capacity, contributing 90% of total capacity last year.
Solar capacity came first with an increase of 22%, followed by wind power with an increase of 9%.
Policies and Incentives
University of Massachusetts academic David Turcotte, whose research interests include climate change and environmental justice, believes that there are many opportunities in the context of increasing global renewable energy capacity, due to increases in oil prices as a result of the Ukrainian crisis, which makes renewable energy sources more cost-effective, as well as worsening economic and human costs. Recurrent, more severe climate change disasters.
“Many developed countries have expanded policies and incentives to encourage increased capacity to produce renewable energy.
However, we still face a lot of challenges […]
That threatens to derail efforts to increase renewable energy capacity, and the transition to a clean energy economy.
Among these challenges is the lack of adequate funding to support increases in renewable energy capacity in developing countries, a challenge he described as “serious. ”
While international efforts are accelerating to target investments in the context of increasing global renewable energy capacity, those investments are still below the 1.5 ° C target.
This is shown by data from IRENA and the Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) released in February, which estimate the total volume of investments in renewable energy sectors during 2022 at $499 billion, up from $430 billion in the previous year 2021.
Developments in the world over the past year, especially with the start of the Russian military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, have also encouraged many countries to move more towards renewable energy sources, to overcome the energy crisis caused by the consequences of the war, in the interest of the desired goal of increasing capacity.
Required investments
John Hall, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Center for Energy Production and Infrastructure, University of North Carolina, United States, notes that “the goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030 is a challenge, and achieving the goal requires an intensive global strategy, focused on significant financial investment, technological innovation targeting these communities, inclusive policies, and collaborative efforts. ”
Speaking with Al-Bayan, he stressed that community participation and infrastructure development in underserved areas should be central to the strategy, leading not only to the promotion of the energy transition, but also to economic upgrading.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that $4 trillion per year will be required in the clean energy sector until 2030 to strengthen global capacity in this regard.
Logistical challenges
Warren Mabey, an academic at Queen ’ s University who specialises in energy policy and natural resource management, told Al Bayan that “it is technically possible to triple global renewable energy capacity over the next six years, and this will put enormous pressure on the global supply chains that support the sector. and manufactured goods, necessary for the transformation process).
Mabe believes that “the cost will be enormous, and the logistical challenge may be too great to overcome ”, stressing the need for“ strong and consistent leadership from countries around the world to achieve this. ”
Arabic Steps
At the Arab level, five Arab countries (Egypt, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates) are expected to account for about 72% of the region ’ s total growth in renewable energy, according to the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), which expects renewable energy capacity to reach 45 gigawatts by 2027, an increase of 3 times. Compared to the last five years.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that in 2022, the Middle East saw the highest increase in renewables ever, with 3.2 gigawatts of new capacity added last year, a 12.8 percent increase over the previous year.
According to the Arab Renewable Energy Authority (AREA), the volume of investments by Arab countries in renewable energy projects is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2040, in light of the interest of Arab governments in this file, to achieve global environmental goals.
A Great Leap in 10 Years
According to the current data, the renewable energy sector in the region is expected to witness a huge leap in the next 10 years, at a time when eight Arab countries are leading this trend, according to the researcher in international relations and political economy, Abu Bakr al-Deeb, adviser to the Arab Center for Studies and Research, who tells Al-Bayan that the countries strongly candidate to move in this direction are:, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria and Morocco).
Aldeeb also cites the volume of electricity generated from renewable sources in the Middle East and Arab countries, which is expected to increase six-fold in 10 years through heavy reliance on solar photovoltaic energy, noting that the Arab region has “great potential ” to help launch major projects to produce energy from the sun. And wind, among these possibilities or advantages (the right climate, the bright sun most days of the year, as well as human expertise, and financial capabilities also for some countries).
The UAE is at the top of the list of Arab countries that produce electricity from solar energy, while Egypt is the largest country in the Arab world in terms of electricity production from wind energy, according to a report issued by (Global Energy Monitor), which Al-Deeb cites when explaining the progress made by some Arab countries in this sector, The UAE, Egypt, Jordan and Morocco are among the first Arab countries to establish solar and wind power plants.
According to the report, renewable power plant projects for Arab countries are likely to achieve 92% of the region ’ s total target by 2030 when completed.
One of the most reliable projects in this regard is the Green Hydrogen projects, through which the Middle East is seeking global leadership, with export revenues likely to reach $200 billion by 2050 for the Gulf countries, according to a study by Dii Desert Energy.
In this context, Al-Deeb notes the abundance of renewable energy resources, clean hydrogen, human expertise, capital, and their geographical proximity to the European market, all of which provide them with important and growing opportunities.
MENAFN24092023000110011019ID1107129201
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"The Middle East is promoting renewable energy, with a projected three-fold growth in capacity over the next five years, led by countries such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with solar PV making up over 85% of the increase."

The Middle East's energy landscape is changing due to the transition to clean energy, driven by the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and sustainable clean energy sources.

Title:

Content: Monday 26th September 2022 Abu Dhabi UAE
Prayer times
Today 's Issue
Today 's Issue
United Arab Emirates
TRENDS Conference: Middle East Security and Climate Change Challenges
TRENDS Conference: Middle East Security and Climate Change Challenges
September 26, 2022 02: 56
Abu Dhabi (Union)
With the participation of Al-Ittihad newspaper and in cooperation with the Atlantic Council, TRENDS Research and Consulting Center is organizing its second annual conference, entitled “Sustainable Security in the Middle East: Challenges and Prospects of Climate Change ”, at the Council ’ s headquarters in Washington, DC, with the participation of four ministers and about 30 speakers from important political figures and experts from different countries of the world.
The conference aims to highlight climate change as a global crisis that requires new approaches and joint steps to address the consequences, while at the same time providing innovative solutions in all sectors in which climate diplomacy plays a pivotal role for a better future for the Middle East and the whole world.
This year ’ s conference will discuss climate action in the region, explore environmental challenges and opportunities, and showcase ambitious solutions.
The two-day sessions will also provide unique perspectives focusing on climate resilience, the transition to a low-emission economy, and collaboration to solve pressing challenges.
The conference aims to draw insights from experts and practitioners from within and outside the region to formulate recommendations for policymakers.
Keyword
Keynote addresses will be delivered by H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance; Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chief Executive Officer of the UAE Independent Climate Action Accelerators Project; H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change; H.E. Maryam Al Muhairi, Minister of Climate Change and David Livingstone, Senior Advisor to the US Presidential Special Envoy.
Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research and Consulting Center, said that the second annual TRENDS conference, which coincides with the Center ’ s celebrations of its eighth anniversary, with its participation of experts and thinkers, will certainly be an important opportunity to present ideas and perceptions that help support regional and international efforts to address the threat of global warming. In order to overcome them and achieve the desired goals, especially in the field of achieving sustainable environmental security, in the Middle East region.
Dr. Al-Ali stressed that TRENDS aims to organize its second annual conference “Sustainable Security in the Middle East: Challenges and Prospects of Climate Change ”, in cooperation with the Atlantic Council, to be a bridge of knowledge and academic communication linking the most important think tanks and studies at the regional and international levels. About 30 speakers were important political figures and experts from around the world.
Regional focus
Hamad Al Kaabi, Editor-in-Chief of the Union, stressed that the media is a key partner in raising awareness of the importance of addressing climate change, which is no longer a future threat but a daily challenge facing all the world ’ s population and all countries.
Al-Kaabi, who will present a paper at the conference on “The role of media in supporting green security initiatives, ” said that the region is now the focus of the world ’ s attention as it hosts Cop27 events in the Egyptian city of Sharm el-Sheikh from November 8 to 18, and the United Arab Emirates hosts Cop28 events in the city of « Expo Dubai » in November 2023.
It has become clear that climate change has become a file that requires regional cooperation, as well as concerted global efforts to curb climate change, protect sustainable development plans, and maintain the development and prosperity paths in the Middle East.
The conference will begin with an opening speech by H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, while the keynote speech will be delivered by David Livingstone, Senior Advisor to the US Presidential Special Envoy for Climate Affairs.
Security and Climate Change
The first day will also feature a welcome speech by Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Center, and Mr. Jonathan Panikov, Director of the Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative, Middle East Programs, Atlantic Council.
The first session of the conference will discuss the topic of national security, climate change and the Middle East: current challenges and future prospects, highlighting the perspective of climate change and national security in the region and their implications for the Middle East and the stability of the region, environmental changes and the effects of global warming on public health, the link between extreme natural phenomena and increased migration flows, and climate change as a geopolitical challenge: adaptation and resilient development.
The session will be moderated by Reina Nainan, Senior Non-Resident Researcher at the Adrian Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center, Atlantic Council, and the co-founder ’ s CEO, News3 Dow.
Scarcity of resources
The second session will address the impacts of resource scarcity and population growth in the Middle East.
The effects of the war in Ukraine are discussed in the Middle East's main agricultural imports, such as wheat.
As well as the challenges facing the region in terms of high demand for food and water, especially in light of the expected increase in the region ’ s population, future prospects and implications of population growth and drought on the infrastructure of food and water systems, the strategic importance of water and the growing concept of cross-border water conflict in the Middle East and North Africa, the impact of climate change on supply chains, regional food security strategies and the effects of the war in Ukraine.
The session will be moderated by Dr. Christian Alexander, Head of Strategic Studies at Trends.
Clean energy
The third session of the first day of the conference will begin in the afternoon US time with a keynote address by H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change.
The session will then address energy industries, infrastructure and politics in the Middle East: opportunities and challenges of the transition to clean energy, and will discuss the transition to an energy system in which environmentally friendly technologies and the potential of sustainable clean energy sources play an increasingly important role.
In addition to the role of industrial partnerships in the transition to safe and low-carbon energy systems, the transformations of key high-energy industries in pursuit of sustainability objectives, the impact of increased regional gas supplies to Europe (in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine) on the rapid transition to wind, solar and hydrogen, the challenges of energy transition in the Middle East and North Africa, and the impact of renewable energy generation on urban infrastructure, transportation systems and electricity grids.
The session will be moderated by Dan Murphy, CNBC's Middle East anchor and correspondent.
Climate Diplomacy
The second day of the second annual TRENDS conference in Washington will begin with an opening speech by Her Excellency Maryam Bint Mohammed Al Muhairi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, followed by the fourth session of the conference entitled between COP27 and COP28: Middle East Diplomatic Efforts to Address Climate Change.
The session will address the role of climate summits in facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy and highlight the importance of geopolitical factors related to climate diplomacy, as well as new visions for building a sustainable environmental framework, assessing the commitments and commitments made at COP26, and climate diplomacy as a growing foreign policy challenge.
The title is divided into two themes: COP27 and COP28, which will be attended by Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, CEO of the UAE ’ s Independent Climate Action Accelerators Project.
It highlights the UAE ’ s hosting of this conference.
The session will be moderated by Awad Al Braiki, Head of Trends Global.
Green security initiatives
The fifth session of the conference is entitled “Multilateral Green Security Initiatives: The Beginning of a Green New Era Towards Collective Environmental Security in the Middle East ”.
It will discuss the importance of regional and collaborative efforts in operationalizing the Middle East ’ s green security initiatives, as well as ways to mitigate the challenges of environmental insecurity, and ways to enhance regional security and key infrastructure systems that accommodate different climatic conditions, through environmental measures and collective green initiatives.
The use of multilateral green security initiatives to improve the capacity of MENA countries to be global leaders in a resilient and inclusive post-carbon economy, the economic aspects of sustainable environmental security and the investments needed to achieve environmental security, and the role of the media in supporting Middle East green security initiatives.
The session will be moderated by Mohamed Al Mulla, Founder and Director of Diwan Al Mulla Network in the State of Kuwait.
The conference will conclude with recommendations and closing remarks, delivered by Somaya Hadrami, Vice President of Trends Global, and Mr. William Wechsler, Senior Director of the Rafik Hariri Center and Middle East Programs, Atlantic Council.
* Trends Research and Consulting Center is an independent research institution, established in 2014 in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and is interested in looking to the future through many specialized research programs.
Trends has been able to build a strong network of relationships and partnerships with various international research centers and international governmental and non-governmental organizations and bodies, and benefit from international research and academic expertise to enhance its scientific and research role at the regional and global levels, by organizing scientific events that enrich the exchange of research experiences and expertise, and the production of various publications in various fields of human knowledge. *
All rights reserved to Al Ittihad Newspaper 2022 ©

"Saudi Arabia aims to achieve 50% of renewable energy by 2030, increasing from its current 0.3%."

Title:

Content: The Guardian: The Middle East is facing a ‘ resurrection ’
And Mecca may not be livable by the end of the century.
Friday 29 October 2021 05: 27 pm / Jerusalem time + 2GMT
London / Sama /
Titled “Resurrection Soon: A Reluctant Middle East Forced to Awareness of the Climate Crisis, ” The Guardian ’ s diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour said that Hurricane Shaheen hit Oman some time ago, the first tropical cyclone to reach this point west into the Gulf.
In Basra, southern Iraq, power has been cut off frequently as a result of this summer ’ s temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, forcing residents to move in their cars to get cold.
Kuwait broke the record for the hottest day of 2016 of 53.6 degrees Celsius, and this summer temperatures were very high, with floods in Jeddah and more recently in Mecca at a time when temperatures in Saudi Arabia have increased by 2 percent and the maximum temperature of 2.5 percent since the 1980s.
Qatar is the world ’ s highest emitting country and the world ’ s largest producer of liquefied gas (LNG), and public spaces are equipped with air conditioners.
In Tehran, pollution annually kills 4,000 people a year, and in Khuzestan province, citizens have blocked streets and burned tires due to drought as a result of mismanagement, U.S. sanctions and a deadly atmosphere.
In the United Arab Emirates, the climate crisis is estimated to cost $6 billion a year, the highest in terms of health costs.
The salinity of the Gulf increased with the proliferation of desalination plants by 20%, which affected marine life and biodiversity.
Conditions are expected to worsen at a time of rising temperatures, humidity and sea levels.
Warming rates in the Middle East are twice as high as in the world.
By the end of the century, if the dangerous predictions are correct, Mecca may not be fit for life, making the Hajj season dangerous if not catastrophic.
Large swaths of the Middle East have come to resemble the Afar region of Ethiopia, a vast area without human settlement that pushes towards the Red Sea.
The glittering cities of the Gulf may face the dilemma of rising water levels themselves.
We do not speak of the day of judgment, but of the day of judgment.
Jim Crane, an energy researcher at Rice University in Houston, said: “This is really a difficult topic because the interests of the ruling elites are at odds with the interests of the citizens.
The ruling elite depends on oil resources for the survival of their regimes.
They want to keep the oil trade in order to keep them in power.
Their system is based on oil leasing, but the population ’ s ultimate interests lie in a sustainable climate. ”
Zeina Khalil Haj, founder of Greenpeace in the Middle East, believes that the region is suffering from double pressure: “With increasing demands for energy change, a region that relies on fossil energy, oil and carbon for its economic survival, but cannot continue this dependency.
There will be no oil market but with climate change, they are required to increase efforts to survive.
The extreme climate is changing people ’ s lives on a daily basis and there is no choice but to go green. ”
The West ’ s persistent appetite for fossil energy has led the region to build car-based cities, shiny skyscrapers filled with air conditioners and shopping malls.
It must look for ways to avoid self-destruction, and it must be, according to Thomas Friedman, the Prometheus moment for the Middle East and the search for creative and creative ways.
In fact, the region has been reminded for a decade that it has to make the transition from oil.
Although the moment when oil demand will reach its highest point remains controversial, and depends on a number of assumptions about regulation, technology and customer behavior, the point I mentioned is 2040, after which demand will decline.
But the International Energy Organization ’ s “Net Zero ” report sees the peak as 2050 and by comparison suggests a reduction in oil demand from 88 million barrels per day in 2020 to 72 million barrels per day by 2030, and 24 million barrels per day in 2050, a 75% decline between 2020-2050.
The report argues that the Gulf has three factors underpinning the transformation: capital, sun, and vast, empty spaces.
Until recently, the Gulf states, including Iran, did not feel the desire to shift away from fossil energy to this extent.
When asked, Saudi Oil Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said it was “a sequel to La La Land, ” meaning that the report and its writers do not know what is happening.
"If I wanted to worry about the IEA's expectations, I would be on Prozac all the time," he said.
Qatar ’ s Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said reducing oil and gas production levels would affect the supply process and laughed at “the enthusiasm surrounding the transition. ”
The Organization of Petroleum Producing and Exporting Countries (OPEC) forecasts that the process of oil demand will increase significantly through 2045 and the share of oil in global energy demand will fall from 30% to 28%, which is not a green revolution.
Gulf states still rely on gas and oil exports, accounting for 70 percent of goods exported from Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Oil resources account for more than 70% of the total resources of Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain.
In Vision 2030, published by Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016, he promised to turn the country into an important industrial hub.
World Bank figures show that Saudi Arabia relies on 75% of its oil resources for its budget.
Aramco, which is making its mark on global carbon emissions, is not diversifying at the same pace as Shell or BP.
Instead, it announced it would increase crude oil production capacity from 12 million barrels per day to 13 million barrels per day by 2027.
Haj believes that the shift away from oil may require a psychological shift from the consumer mentality, “The Gulf has not yet reached this kind of discussion.
If you see the way of life in the UAE and Qatar, it is based on inexhaustible consumption, and I fear we are still a long way from that in terms of politics and readiness. ”
Iran is the largest country in the world in terms of carbon emissions by population, followed by the UAE in second place and Saudi Arabia in 13th place.
Of course, Gulf rulers at events such as the Glasgow climate conference can defend themselves by saying that their region is not the primary source of carbon emissions, and historically, collectively, accounts for 4.7% less than carbon emissions and pollution from the United States, Europe and China.
The Middle East exports oil, but pollution is the responsibility of those who import it.
But the region ’ s leaders have come to grips with the problem not because of Western pressure but in response to citizens ’ demands, the goose has realized that the eggs, the oil, are no longer golden but brown.
The UAE is the first country to say it has moved to ratify the Paris Treaty and is the least dependent Gulf state on oil for its government resources.
Last week, she announced the “Net Zero by 2050 Initiative ” with an initial investment budget of $163 billion and appointed the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Maryam Al Muhairi.
The announcement came after the government ordered awareness sessions in all its ministries since June for 80 days.
It was the first country in the Gulf to adopt a net zero domestic consumption policy.
The plan is still in its infancy and some of its features are unclear, but the direction is clear.
It promised to rely on renewable and nuclear energy by 50% to generate electricity by 2050.
Abu Dhabi ’ s national oil company said it would get 100 percent of its electricity from the nuclear reactor and solar power.
The Mohammed bin Maktoum Solar Park will be the largest in the world with a capacity of 5,000 megawatts.
Gulf states are competing with each other, with news reports that Qatar has appointed a climate minister, Bahrain aiming for net zero carbon by 2050 and Kuwait announcing a plan to reduce carbon emissions.
Saudi Arabia does not like to be late.
It announced that it would increase the proportion of renewable energy from 0.3% to 50% by 2030.
The plan is to plant 10 million trees in the coming decades.
Over the weekend, the kingdom organized a summit of the Green Middle East Initiative, attended by John Kerry and Britain ’ s Prince Charles.
It promised to reach net zero carbon emissions in its territory by 2060.
The main reason the Gulf states have been slow to shift away from oil and its commodities is that they have made them rich and helped them anesthetize their citizens.
Their loyalty was bought through a series of subsidies for water, electricity, fuel and tax breaks.
These dynamics were different from Iraq, Lebanon and to a lesser extent Iran, but the situation is changing with the emergence of local environmental groups.

The UAE aims to increase its share of clean energy to 50% by 2050.

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Content: Fossil fuels, which have powered the industrial growth and development of civilisations for centuries, are facing a looming deadline of depletion. Moreover, they have caused severe environmental and social problems, such as climate change, conflicts, and pollution. The need for alternative and sustainable energy sources is clear and urgent. However, the transition to a post-fossil fuel era is not easy or straightforward. It requires innovation, investment, cooperation, and vision.

This article explores the challenges and opportunities of global energy transformation, focusing on the dual nature of fossil fuels, the countdown to their exhaustion, and the promise of renewable energy sources. It also highlights the progress and potential of some countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which is one of the most dependent regions on fossil fuels in the world.

Fossil Fuels: A Double-Edged Sword

Fossil fuels, comprising oil, coal, and natural gas, are ancient energy sources that have been central to the development of various industries and sectors. They have enhanced transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and electricity generation. They have catalysed global trade, commerce, and innovation, elevating the quality of life for millions.

However, this ascent has been coupled with profound challenges. Fossil fuels have been a source of geopolitical strife, epitomised by wars and conflicts over their control and distribution. They have also exacerbated environmental issues, such as greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and climate change. Incidents like oil spills, gas leaks, and fracking have inflicted severe damage on ecosystems and public health.

The Countdown to Depletion

The finite and non-renewable nature of fossil fuels leaves humanity facing a daunting deadline. Predicting the exact exhaustion of these resources is a complex endeavour, influenced by reserves, consumption rates, technological advancements, and price fluctuations. Nonetheless, projections based on current data paint a concerning picture.

According to Octopus Energy, the year 2060 may mark the twilight of fossil fuels, based on current consumption and reserve estimates. In 2020, global oil production reached 91.7 million barrels per day (b/d), with key players like the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Russia at the forefront. Simultaneously, natural gas production stood at 3.94 trillion cubic meters (bcm). Although the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily curtailed production, a resurgence is anticipated. In contrast, natural gas consumption steadily rises by over 3% each year.

Should additional oil reserves remain elusive, known deposits could be depleted by 2052. The stark reality is that demand for oil has surged, nearly doubling the average annual rate observed over the preceding decade in 2018.

Toward a Sustainable Energy Paradigm

The global imperative for alternative energy sources is clear. Sustainable options, even if not entirely devoid of environmental impact, have become a linchpin of energy discussions. The quest for sustainability is no longer optional; it is fundamental to securing a prosperous future.

Embracing alternative and sustainable energy solutions is our paramount responsibility. The adverse consequences of persisting with fossil fuels are increasingly undeniable. Furthermore, incidents such as oil spills, gas leaks, and fracking have grievously scarred ecosystems and human health.

The geopolitical maelstrom surrounding fossil fuels is a testament to their strategic importance. By reducing our dependence on these finite resources, we can contribute to global stability and peace.

The Promise of Sustainable Energy

Investing in sustainable energy is not merely an ecological commitment; it is a strategic move to safeguard long-term energy security. Renewable sources like solar and wind power do not suffer the same spectre of depletion as fossil fuels, offering a reliable and sustainable energy future. Moreover, technology’s relentless march is enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these alternatives, ensuring a seamless transition.

In this era of unprecedented global challenges, the unsustainable trajectory of fossil fuels is no longer tenable. Transitioning to renewable and sustainable energy sources is both a moral imperative and an economic necessity. As we confront the relentless march of climate change, endeavouring to secure long-term energy stability and foster global peace, embracing this transformation is our only viable path toward a sustainable and prosperous future. It is a journey we must embark upon with unwavering determination and foresight.

The MENA Region: The abundance of wisdom

The MENA region stands as an interesting case study for global energy transformation. The region is one of the most dependent regions on fossil fuels in the world. According to the World Bank, the region accounted for 36% of the global oil production and 20% of the global gas production in 2018. However, the region also faces many challenges and risks related to its reliance on fossil fuels, such as price volatility, environmental degradation, social unrest, and geopolitical conflicts.

Therefore, some countries in the region have started to prepare for the transition to a post-fossil fuel era by diversifying their economies, investing in renewable energy sources, and promoting innovation and sustainability. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the MENA region has a huge potential for renewable energy development, especially solar and wind power. The report estimates that the region could generate more than 60% of its total electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

Some of the countries that have made significant progress in this field are:

• UAE: The UAE has been a leader in innovation and sustainability in the region, with a vision of becoming a global hub for green economy and clean energy. The UAE has set a target of increasing its share of clean energy to 50% by 2050. The UAE has invested in various renewable energy projects, such as the Shams 1 solar thermal plant, which is one of the largest of its kind in the world, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is planned to be the largest single-site solar park in the world by 2030. The UAE is also home to Masdar City, which is a planned city that aims to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. Also, UAE is one of the 10 largest oil producing countries with a proven reserves, according to BP statistical reviews, of 100 billion barrels.

• Morocco: Morocco has been a pioneer in renewable energy development in the region, with a target of achieving 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Morocco has invested heavily in solar power projects, such as the Noor Ouarzazate complex, which is the largest concentrated solar power plant in the world. Morocco also has a strong wind power sector, with a capacity of over 1.2 gigawatts (GW) as of 2019.

• Egypt: Egypt has also been pursuing an ambitious renewable energy strategy, with a goal of reaching 42% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2035. Egypt has a large potential for solar and wind power, especially in the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea coast. Egypt has launched several large-scale projects, such as the Benban Solar Park, which is expected to be the largest solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in the world when completed, and the Zafarana Wind Farm, which is one of the largest wind farms in Africa.

These are some examples of countries in the MENA region that are prepared for after fossil fuels era. However, there are still many challenges and barriers that need to be overcome, such as policy and regulatory frameworks, financing and investment mechanisms, public awareness and participation, and regional cooperation and integration.

The world is at a crossroads in its energy choices. Fossil fuels have been instrumental in driving industrial growth and development, but they have also caused severe environmental problems. Their finite nature also poses a threat to long-term energy security. The need for alternative and sustainable energy sources is clear and urgent.

Renewable energy sources offer a promising solution to this challenge. They are abundant, reliable, and sustainable. They can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change impacts, and foster global peace. They can also create new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and social welfare.

— Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi is a former UAE minister of Infrastructure Development and for Climate Change and Environment

"The Middle Eastern countries investing in solar energy are Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Morocco, which are expected to drive the region's renewable energy growth over the next five years."

The UAE is investing up to $54.5 billion in renewable energy as part of its transition to a low-carbon future.

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Content: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues have become increasingly prominent on the global stage as organisations recognise the need to integrate sustainability into their operations.

As the Middle East moves towards a low carbon future, sustainability has become a top priority for organisations and governments across the region.

Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai announced while launching the National Hydrogen Strategy that the UAE is to invest up to AED 200 billion ($54.5 billion) in renewable energy.

The launch of a AED 4 billion renewable energy plant in Dubai,  and the world’s largest waste-to-energy plant are proof of sustainability climbing the agenda.

With COP 28 being held in the UAE this year, there is a renewed sense of urgency on climate change action, and the net-zero carbon target is being prioritised through policies and actions.

After all, sustainability will boost the UAE’s economic competitiveness, drive innovative policy and improve investment opportunities.

The region has seen notable sustainability innovations, including Saudi Arabia’s rapid transition to a circular carbon economy, Bahrain’s state oil company refinancing a $2.2 billion sustainability-linked corporate finance facility, and Oman’s exploration of green hydrogen as a clean energy source.

However, the Middle East faces its own unique challenges in implementing ESG practices, especially around accurate sustainability reporting and implementing early regulations to fill in previous gaps.

Other challenges that hinder the progress of the region’s ESG agenda include the talent gap, how corporates in the region address the need to implement ESG practices, as well as data availability.

Regulatory frameworks

While standardised frameworks and reporting guidelines begin to form, the lack of clear regulations can hinder consistent measurement and disclosure of ESG performance.

Global frameworks have now become more widely adopted in the region such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the newly published International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).

The gap in standardisation previously posed challenges for investors and stakeholders who relied on transparent and comparable ESG data for decision-making, however, we are starting to see drastic changes in this area.

Data availability

Many companies in the Middle East still face challenges in collecting, managing, and reporting ESG data, which can hinder their ability to effectively assess and manage their sustainability performance.

Data is the first step to measure any status, but also measure progress. Improving data collection mechanisms and investing in robust reporting systems will be instrumental in addressing this challenge.

ESG talent gap

Organisations need individuals with specialised knowledge and expertise in ESG practices to drive sustainable strategies effectively. Alongside this specialised knowledge, the industry also needs innovators, risk takers, agitators for change, mentors, and communicators in the field. There is however, a shortage of skilled professionals in the region with a deep understanding of ESG principles to drive innovative solutions.

Bridging this gap requires investment in education and training programmes to build a skilled workforce capable of integrating ESG considerations into business practices. Universities and training institutions are therefore increasingly offering courses and programmes on sustainability and ESG and businesses are partnering with academic institutions to develop tailored training initiatives and internships, nurturing a pipeline of talent equipped with the required knowledge and skills.

These efforts will cultivate a sustainable workforce capable of implementing and driving ESG practices in the Middle East.

Implementation by region’s corporates

Despite the challenges, corporations in the Middle East are embracing ESG practices, recognising the importance of sustainability and responsible business conduct. We see this through accelerated electrification and the increase of decarbonizing energy supply.

The GCC’s oil-producing nations have made efforts to diversify energy sources, transitioning towards net-zero carbon fuels for transportation. Investments in renewable energy, such as solar and wind, aim to mitigate environmental impacts and promote a low-carbon economic future transforming the economic system and supply chain.

Additionally, social considerations are gaining prominence. Companies are addressing social issues through initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and employee welfare.

Governance practices are also being strengthened to ensure transparency, accountability, regulatory reforms and ethical conduct.

While obstacles in integrating ESG practices persist in the Middle East, corporates in the region are proactively embracing sustainability and responsible business practices.

That the Middle East is emerging as a leader in ESG adoption is apparent through their fullfillment of the UN SDG goals which has driven positive environmental, social, and governance outcomes for businesses and society as a whole.

"Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 program aims to increase the proportion of renewable energy to 50% by 2030."