The UAE cements its leadership in solar energy with groundbreaking initiatives like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, driving regional growth and innovation in renewable energy while setting ambitious clean energy targets.
A new report highlighted the UAE’s leadership in the regional solar energy sector, driven by initiatives like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, targeting 75 percent clean energy by 2050, and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, aiming for 30 percent renewable energy within five years.
The “Solar Outlook Report 2025” report, launched by the Middle East Solar Industry Association (MESIA) during the World Future Energy Summit 2025 in Abu Dhabi, outlines the rapid growth of solar energy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and the UAE’s key role in this transformation.
Solar energy’s share in the regional energy mix grew significantly, with solar capacity in MENA rising 23 percent in 2023 to 32 gigawatts (GW) peak, and projected to exceed 180 GW peak by 2030. Growth is driven by technological advancements, government support, and private sector investment.
The report highlights the adoption of innovative technologies like digital twins and automated cleaning systems, which have enhanced solar plant performance, increased energy output, and reduced costs. Advances in energy storage and automated operations are addressing challenges in expanding solar portfolios.
Green hydrogen is identified as a fast-growing sector, with MENA’s abundant solar and wind resources offering a competitive edge in production. Despite challenges such as funding and infrastructure, the region’s commitment and market advancements are unlocking new opportunities.
Efforts to localise solar manufacturing and reduce reliance on external suppliers are essential for long-term success. Countries like Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia are expanding their solar capacities to meet local needs and contribute to global clean energy goals.
Fazle Moyeen Quazi, MESIA President, noted that next-generation technologies enhance solar project efficiency and resilience, addressing issues like intermittency and grid stability.
The report emphasises that advanced solar cells, grid integration tools, and digital monitoring systems are boosting efficiency, while private sector investments, public-private partnerships, and innovative financing are accelerating adoption.
Leen AlSebai, Head of the World Future Energy Summit and General Manager of RX Middle East, highlighted the summit’s role in fostering connections among global stakeholders, reinforcing the MENA region’s position as a leading solar energy market.
Global firms attest to UAE’s role
Global companies participating in the World Future Energy Summit have attested that the UAE is playing a leading role in the renewable energy sector worldwide.
Adler, Founder, President, and CEO of Sky Power Global, said that the UAE has become a key launchpad for his company’s efforts to provide renewable energy in developing countries, especially in Africa.
In statements, during his participation in the World Future Energy Summit, Adler added that this was his tenth participation in the event, reflecting his company’s ongoing interest in strengthening its presence in the UAE.
He added that the UAE leadership’s long-term vision for sustainability and renewable energy was the primary reason behind the decision to relocate the company’s global headquarters from Canada to Dubai. He explained that the UAE, with its advanced infrastructure and innovative technologies, provides an ideal platform for launching renewable energy projects.
Legislation for hydrogen sustainability
Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, announced that the ministry, in collaboration with the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE), is currently drafting new legislation and policies to support the sustainability of hydrogen production.
These policies, designed for adoption by all IPHE member states, will also be implemented in the UAE to promote hydrogen as the fuel of the future.
Speaking during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, Al Mazrouei emphasised that the legislative efforts with IPHE aim to establish a roadmap and clear standards to ensure the long-term sustainability of the hydrogen sector.
He also highlighted the UAE’s strong presence on the Hydrogen Council through ADNOC and Masdar.
“We are collaborating with global partners to develop sustainable and supportive legislations for the hydrogen sector,” he stated, adding that the UAE has launched a roadmap targeting the production of 1.4 million metric tonnes of low-carbon hydrogen annually by 2031. This roadmap necessitates comprehensive regulations on production, transportation, and other aspects to position the UAE as a global producer and exporter of low-carbon hydrogen energy.
Al Mazrouei noted a significant reduction in hydrogen production costs, which have decreased by 40 to 50 percent, from US$10 per kilogram to US$5–6 per kilogram, enhancing the sector’s sustainability and production processes.
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