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The eMobility Forum will promote the decarbonisation of the transport sector. (Image source: RX)

As part of global efforts to decarbonise the transport sector, the upcoming World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi will explore, examine, and encourage the use of electric mobility technology, driving the industry towards eMobility

Running from January 14-16 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the three-day show is an integral part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025. This year’s edition proved a widescale success, and the first day of the 2025 show will see the return of the popular eMobility Forum, gathering thought leaders, industry experts, and policy influencers to discuss the emerging trends and infrastructure needed for a transportation revolution.

A theme running across all seven conference tracks is artificial intelligence (AI), with the eMobility Forum dedicating a session to ‘Harnessing real-time AI for seamless urban traffic management’. Zeekr, a global premium electric mobility technology brand that offers a fully integrated user ecosystem, will showcase its Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), which enables it to develop its own battery technologies, battery management systems, electric motor technologies, and EV supply chains.

“While regions like Europe, China, and the USA have scaled EV adoption through various incentives – such as preferential toll tariffs, exclusive EV lanes, dedicated parking, robust charging infrastructure, and tax deductions – there’s immense potential for similar measures to accelerate the UAE's transition to sustainable mobility. If we look back to 2015, anywhere between 50 and 80 vehicles were imported in a year. In 2024, total import figures will likely hit 20,000, and a projected 30,000 by the end of next year. There is a clear appetite for demand as the end users are really starting to understand the benefits of EV adoption,” said Roberto Colucci, director of electric vehicles at AW Rostamani and Zeekr UAE, who will present during the session.

The transportation sector accounts for more than 20% of global carbon emissions; EVs are leading the push to reduce that figure. The World Future Energy Summit will spotlight transport solutions aimed at radically reshaping urban design, fostering sustainable cities, and accelerating the adoption of smart transportation technologies.

Considering the Global South

Another key Forum feature is a dedicated session focusing on the future of eMobility in the Global South, where cars are often a luxury and motorbikes dominate the landscape. Two-wheeled EVs represent a transformative opportunity for the region, but their successful deployment will require reliable electricity infrastructure and an enterprising spirit to scale solutions such as battery-swapping schemes.

The Forum will also feature a session dedicated to ‘Rethinking Infrastructure for Autonomous Vehicles’, during which Zhengxiong Yang, mobility solution architecture lead at Space 42 – the MENA region’s leading space technology player – will share insights on advancing AI in mobility. Yang will highlight the latest updates on the operation of robotaxis on Abu Dhabi’s Yas and Saadiyat islands, including the difficulties in and improvements to infrastructure.

Reducing emissions

The Forum will explore challenges and innovations in reducing emissions across all transport modes. While EVs dominate the road sector’s decarbonisation efforts, electric propulsion systems and hybrid technologies are being developed for maritime vessels. The aviation sector is also making strides with microgrid technology, transforming airports into green energy hubs, and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.

EV sales in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are growing due to government initiatives, strong economies, and a heightened focus on sustainability, with several countries implementing policies to boost adoption. The UAE aims to have EVs make up 50% of road vehicles by 2050, with the broader MENA EV market expected to reach 45,000 units by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.07%.

While China is the global leader in EV sales, the UAE was last year first in the region and ranked seventh globally in the EV readiness index, signifying the UAE's commitment to sustainable transportation and its aim to become carbon neutral by 2050.

The eMobility Forum is one of seven vertical conference streams at the summit that will drill down into the entire energy ecosystem. “Our sector conferences provide unparalleled opportunities for visitors, delegates, and exhibitors to discover the latest developments impacting the clean energy, solar, water, waste, sustainable cities, and Pathways to 1.5C sectors,” explained Leen AlSebai, general manager of RX Middle East and head of the World Future Energy Summit.

Visit the website to learn more by clicking here and register for the conference by clicking here

The Malaysia Pavilion at ADIPEC attracted many visitors. (Image source: MATRADE)

The Malaysian Oil & Gas Services and Equipment (OGSE) delegation led by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) generated export sales worth US$90mn during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) 2024

A total of 20 Malaysian companies showcased their innovative solutions that align with the global shift towards sustainability and energy transition, such as cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices across the entire oil and gas value chain ranging from safety equipment to integrated solutions for both the upstream and downstream sectors.

“UAE and the MENA region offers tremendous opportunities for Malaysian companies as they continue to launch mega projects in both upstream and downstream sectors and invest heavily in clean energy. Malaysian companies are in an advantageous position to offer cost effective solutions. Our consistent presence in the show is a testament that ADIPEC is a premier platform to strengthen relationships and explore new collaborative opportunities with key global players," said Megat Iskandar, Trade Commissioner of Malaysia to the UAE. "Our goal is to not only elevate Malaysia’s OGSE capabilities but also to extend our industry’s footprint in global markets, and championing our ESG objectives. ADIPEC offers an invaluable platform for Malaysian exporters to take bold strides toward future-proofing their positions in the industry," he added.

The Malaysia Pavilion at ADIPEC 2024 received an outstanding response from trade visitors, attracting significant attention and engagement. The delegation recorded over 2,000 business enquiries from countries, among others, UAE, Canada, China, India, Pakistan, Turkiye, Brazil and African countries. Several National Oil Companies (NOCs) from the MENA region, namely, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait indicated their strong interest in Malaysia’s innovative oil and gas products, technologies and solutions during the event.

Among the key highlights at ADIPEC 2024 was the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Malaysian OGSE companies and international partners, reflecting the industry's proactive adjustment to the global energy transition. These strategic collaborations will drive Malaysia’s expansion into emerging energy sectors such as hydrogen, offshore wind and solar power generation. By embracing these partnerships, Malaysian companies are not only supporting the nation’s decarbonisation goals but also positioning the OGSE industry as a regional leader in green technology innovation.

As global energy dynamics evolve and the focus on cleaner energy solutions intensifies, Malaysia’s OGSE sector is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities. The discussions, agreements and technology offered at ADIPEC are expected to serve as catalyst for the industry’s continued growth and adaptation.

The World Future Energy Summit 2025 will continue to build the blueprint for a sustainable future. (Image source: WFES)

The Middle East’s role as a new global fuels hub, the potential impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in energy industry transformation, and potential pathways to a sustainable and resilient future are a trio of critical issues to be explored when the World Future Energy Summit returns to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 14-16 January as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 (ADSW)

Hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s World Future Energy Summit – now globally recognised as the world’s premier business event focused on future energy and sustainability – will bring together pioneering energy sector minds, policy and decision-makers, and industry innovators to demonstrate, discuss and debate cutting-edge solutions and trends shaping a sustainable and resilient energy future.

The summit will explore broader regional trends, bringing together the global players who can help the UAE achieve its goal of increasing the proportion of clean energy in the country’s overall mix from its current level of 27.83% to 32% by 2030.

“Masdar’s pioneering and innovative track record as the UAE’s clean energy powerhouse provides demonstrable evidence of the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals and the region’s growing prominence as a sustainability leader,” remarked Masdar CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi. “As a founding host and longstanding supporter of the World Future Energy Summit, we look forward to working with global partners, leaders and innovators to enable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing climate challenges.”

“The World Future Energy Summit is not just another industry event—it’s the heart of innovation and collaboration for building a sustainable energy future at a critical juncture,” added Leen AlSebai, general manager of RX Middle East and head of the World Future Energy Summit. “Energy demands and landscapes are constantly evolving, and our 2025 edition will draw on key trends and learnings from 2024 to continue propelling the industry forward. As we chart a sustainable future, we’ll place special focus on the Middle East’s role in the future of fuels and a carbon-neutral approach to economic growth.”

Summit host, Masdar will emphasise the need for cross-sector collaboration to achieve global energy transition goals in support of the tripling of global renewable capacity set out in the UAE Consensus. The 2025 edition will spotlight how countries across the region and internationally are capitalising on emerging clean energy opportunities. It will feature exclusive sessions exploring the evolving strategies of regional and international energy companies as they lead the charge towards decarbonisation, spurred by commitments made at COP28 in the UAE.

Bridging global and regional clean energy agendas

The summit’s agenda will reflect the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals and the region’s growing prominence as a sustainability leader. Dedicated conference streams will discuss landmark UAE projects and their contributions toward the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. The event will also highlight the Emirates’ rising stature in the global green hydrogen market, with recent reports ranking it first in hydrogen market readiness in the Middle East.

Faisal Rashid, senior director, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, will take part in a panel discussion on ‘Energy Efficiency: Balancing cost, incentives, and sustainability’, and sees the summit as a key enabler in promoting the UAE’s clean energy strategies. "My main objective is to leverage this international platform to promote energy efficiency and sustainability practices, share our expertise in energy strategy activation, and exchange knowledge with other professionals in the field,” said Rashid. “Participating in this event highlights our commitment to advancing the UAE's clean energy strategy and Net Zero targets. By collaborating with industry leaders and sharing best practices, we can strengthen our position as a key global hub for sustainable energy solutions, driving economic growth while promoting a healthier environment and a better quality of life for future generations."

The conference will also focus on AI and its role in transforming energy ecosystems, given the technology’s potential to optimise energy use, forecast demand, and enhance production efficiency as global consumption levels grow. In-depth discussions will probe how AI can be integrated into energy infrastructure without compromising sustainability efforts.

Elsewhere, participants will have access to six exhibition tracks covering solar energy, EcoWASTE, water, clean energy, smart cities, and climate & environment, while spotlighting regional leaders like Masdar.

Seven conference streams will support the exhibition, providing in-depth discussions on topics such as Pathways to 1.5°C, Water and Food Security, Sustainable Cities, Waste Management, and Green Finance. A dedicated focus on women in energy through initiatives like CLIX will also be under in the spotlight, as well as a deep dive into innovation and the role of entrepreneurs in tackling some of the most critical challenges of our time. The 2025 edition of the World Future Energy Summit will also explore the role of the Middle East in creating a new trade network for clean energy, with key initiatives across the region, featuring UAE-based companies such as ACWA Power, leading the way.

With more than 400 global companies and 350 industry speakers expected to take part, the World Future Energy Summit 2025 will serve as a nexus for investment, innovation and knowledge exchange across industries and is not one to be missed.

Visit the website to learn more by clicking here and register for the conference by clicking here

The exhibition is expected to see extensive participation from local and international companies and manufacturers. (Image source: Expo Centre Sharjah)

Expo Centre Sharjah is set to host the 20th edition of SteelFab, the Middle East’s leading event for the metalworking, metal manufacturing and steel fabrication industry from 13-16 January 2025

The exhibition is expected to see extensive participation from local and international companies and manufacturers, featuring more than 600 major global brands from 33 countries showcasing their latest technologies and innovations in the metalworking field.

Strong international and local participation

The SteelFab 2025 trade show brings together eminent local and international players in the iron and steel industry to showcase state-of-the-art machinery, equipment, and tools pertinent to the metal industries, welding and cutting, pipe manufacturing, and other related sectors. Participants will represent the industry’s largest industrial companies from countries like the UK, Germany, India, Taiwan, China, Italy, and Turkey. The exhibition will also host some of the most prominent UAE-based companies.

Strengthening Sharjah’s position as a regional metal production hub

HE Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, affirmed that SteelFab is the region’s premier event for the metal-manufacturing and steel fabrication industry. It serves as an important platform for manufacturers and companies operating in the field to showcase their latest products and services and connect with potential clients and partners. This will consequently enhance Sharjah’s status as a central hub for the metal industry in the Middle East.

He further noted that the exhibition has demonstrated remarkable success over the past twenty years, reflected in the high participation rates in previous editions. The new edition is expected to draw over 125 international companies and 170 local firms, indicating an increase in the number of exhibitors compared to previous years. Additionally, there is an anticipated acceleration in the turnout of visitors representing various industrial sectors, promising a successful edition that showcases the latest technologies and advanced equipment in the steel industry.

Advanced modern technologies

The SteelFab 2025 exhibition places special emphasis on the latest technologies and cutting-edge equipment used in the iron and steel industries. The upcoming edition will host a two-day conference dedicated to the latest industry innovations, alongside market analysis and emerging trends in machine innovation and the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI). To enhance connectivity among steel industry leaders, the exhibition’s 2025 edition features a Buyers Program that offers exclusive networking opportunities between top industry specialists and exhibitors. The program is anticipated to attract over 200 key industry figures.

The exhibition will spotlight the latest trends and advancements in the manufacturing, iron, and steel sectors, featuring extensive displays of state-of-the-art laser equipment and metal cutting systems. It will also witness the 4th edition of the Best Welder competition, which is designed to honor welding talent, offering a platform for professionals to demonstrate their skills and vie for excellence awards.

Young ADIPEC’s Experiential & Edutainment Hub drew students to STEM-focused zones. (Image source: ADIPEC)

ADIPEC 2024 has witnessed an increased participation of young voices around the world, bridging the generational gap to accelerate progress in the global energy transition

Young attendees have brought fresh perspectives to discussions on the future of energy, underscoring ADIPEC’s mission to foster a secure, equitable, and sustainable energy future shaped by voices from across the globe.

The ADIPEC Youth Council, now in its second year, gave university students the chance to join in cross-generational conversations with industry leaders on critical energy issues. Students from institutions like Abu Dhabi Polytechnic (UAE), University of Dar A Salaam (Tanzania), Federal University of Technology Minna (Nigeria), University of Sharjah (UAE), and Abu Dhabi University (UAE) shared their aspirations and innovative ideas for transforming the energy sector.

Under the patronage of Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and supported by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), the 12th Young ADIPEC programme aims to foster an inclusive, collaborative environment. Students explored real-world opportunities in Youth Talk sessions such as 'Discover Pathways in the Energy Industry', where seasoned professionals outlined the career possibilities open to young visionaries ready to contribute to the energy transition.

Speaking during the session, Rashed Alneyadi, growth and new energies manager at Mubadala Energy emphasised the vital role of emerging talent in driving sustainable progress. He said, “When I was younger, I wanted to be in an industry that enabled me to make an impact. When I thought about it, everything requires energy, from your phone, your house, and even you need energy. In the energy sector, everyone can make an impact. More diversity has been introduced to our industry and more women and men are working hand by hand to help this industry prosper and grow.”

Other popular Youth Talks included ‘Shaping the Future of Leadership in Energy’, where students explored their leadership potential and learned essential skills for success, and ‘Flow of Transition’, a session focused on personal development and charting a career path in the evolving energy landscape. 

Cross-generational collaboration

Christopher Hudson, president, dmg events, the organisers of ADIPEC, said, “As a powerful platform for cross-generational collaboration, ADIPEC connects current and future leaders, innovators, and engineers, unlocking new pathways for impactful careers in energy. This year, the event’s expanded youth initiatives highlight the industry’s commitment to investing in future talent and amplifying youth voices in shaping the sector’s transformation.”

Young ADIPEC’s Experiential & Edutainment Hub drew hundreds of students to eight STEM-focused zones, including the Technology for a Sustainable Future zone with activities on carbon capture and the Energy Transition Zone, focused on climate action. The 2030 Careers Zone highlighted roles in demand in the coming years, while the Science Zone covered earth sciences, chemistry, and physics.

In the Methane Abatement Challenge, UAE students presented innovative solutions to reduce methane emissions. In the Flaring category, the Methane Mitigators team from Abu Dhabi International PVT School won for their concept to retrofit catalytic combustion technology in existing flares. The Piphexis team from Yas American Academy earned top honors in the Venting category for methane-trapping filters, while the Triple Bond team from Abu Dhabi International PVT School took the Fugitive Emissions category with a detection and prevention system using satellites, drones, and methane-transforming bacteria.

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