Event News

Haitham Al Jenaibi, EVP Development & Production (Gas), ADNOC Upstream and ADIPEC 2026 Technical Conference chairman. (Image source: dmg events)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as one of the defining forces shaping the future of the global energy sector, with submissions to the ADIPEC 2026 Technical Conferences revealing a significant increase in industry-led research focused on improving efficiency, strengthening operational resilience and enhancing energy security

Across both the SPE Technical Conference and the Downstream Technical Conference organised by dmg events, submissions highlight how the global technical community is increasingly deploying digital technologies to advance operations.

The strongest signal came from the SPE Technical Conference, where AI & Digital Transformation became the largest category, attracting 1,296 submissions, up 11.6% year on year. The trend was equally evident in the Downstream Technical Conference, which recorded its highest-ever submission intake with 977 papers, a 24.9% increase on 2025. Digital Transformation & Advanced Manufacturing was the fastest-growing category, rising 58.6% to 211 submissions and becoming the largest theme in the programme.

The growth reflects AI’s rapid transition from pilot projects to large-scale deployment across the energy value chain, supporting predictive maintenance, asset optimization, operational automation, emissions management and real-time decision-making.

Addressing the trends emerging from this year’s submissions, Haitham Al Jenaibi, EVP Development & Production (Gas), ADNOC Upstream and ADIPEC 2026 Technical Conference Chairman, said, “The prominence of AI across this year’s submissions highlights a broader shift in how the energy industry is approaching innovation. Organisations are increasingly deploying intelligent technologies to improve efficiency, strengthen resilience and support energy security. The research being presented at ADIPEC 2026 demonstrates a shared commitment across the industry to developing practical solutions that can help meet growing energy demand while creating long-term value. Real progress, however, will come from combining digital innovation with deep engineering expertise, strong governance and human insight.”

Earlier this year, the ADIPEC 2026 Technical Conferences announced a record of more than 7,200 paper submissions from energy professionals and researchers worldwide. More than 320 Technical Conference Subcommittee members from across the global energy industry then conducted a rigorous review process, helping to develop a high-quality programme that reflects the sector's latest innovations and technical priorities.

ADIPEC 2026 will take place in Abu Dhabi from 2–5 November 2026, bringing together more than 239,000 attendees, 1,800 speakers, 16,500 delegates and 2,250 exhibiting companies to advance the partnerships, technologies and solutions needed to support long-term energy security and economic growth.

Click here to register as an ADIPEC 2026 delegate or visitor.

Participants at the opening ceremony. (Image source: dmg events)

At the opening of the Egypt Energy Show in Cairo, heads of state, energy ministers and policymakers underlined the need for regional co-operation to navigate the unprecedented international volatility and drive progress on energy security

His Excellency Abdel Fattah El Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, said, "The International Energy Agency has indicated that this may be one of the most severe energy crises in modern history - indeed, possibly one of the most significant crises the modern world has faced. This is not a single shock, but a double shock: a supply shock and a price shock. We are facing a significant reduction in supply - estimated at around 20-25%. Given the grave consequences of continued conflict […] it is our collective responsibility to work toward ending such crises, as cooperation is the key to overcoming the current challenges facing the energy sector."

His Excellency Nikos Christodoulides, president of the Republic of Cyprus , highlighted the impacts of the ongoing crisis on global energy priorities, stating "energy security is no longer merely an economic concern - it is fundamentally a political imperative."

Ditte Juul Jørgensen, director general of Energy, European Commission commented that the current criss has underlined the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy and to build sustainable domestic energy systems.

“For Europe, Egypt is a valued partner in this effort, and we must seize this opportunity not only to address current challenges but also to build a shared future defined by stability, resilience, sustainability, transparency, and integrity."

His Excellency Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), highlighted the Gulf region's critical role in stabilising international markets through prudent production policies and effective coordination to maintain the supply/demand balance.

His Excellency Eng. Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Arab Republic of Egypt, also took the stage to underline the country's firm commitment to pragmatic policymaking, strategic investment, and sustained cross-border collaboration, which have contributed to its rise as a fast-growing regional energy hub and trusted diplomatic partner.

"This year's conference carries exceptional significance, convening at a critical juncture marked by escalating challenges and shifts within our region. In this context, effective partnerships are no longer an option, but an absolute necessity. Collective action has become the cornerstone for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of global supply chains."

The Opening Ceremony closed with the signing of new agreements between Egypt and Cyprus, which will enable Cypriot gas to be processed and liquefied at advanced facilities in Egypt.

Providing a forum for high-level dialogue, cross-border investment and commercial engagement, the first day of the Egypt Energy Show welcomed more than 50,000 international participants and 2,200 conference delegates, while more than 500 exhibitors across 13 dedicated country pavilions showcased the latest technologies and services shaping the future of energy.

Middle East Energy has been rescheduled from 7-9 April to 1-3 September 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, organisers have confirmed via an official statement

The new dates have also been updated on the Middle East Energy official website. 

The 50th edition is now expected to welcome nearly 50,000 attendees from 178 countries, with the revised dates said to provide greater flexibility for travel, logistics and full-scale solution showcases across the power value chain.

While no reason has been formally stated for the change, the move comes amid ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East.

The statement added, "Hosting this landmark event in September 2026 will provide additional space at DWTC and an extended period for all participants to organise logistics and travel and prepare product, machinery and technology showcases, to maximise value for everyone."

Organisers said the team is committed to supporting participants and addressing any queries ahead of the September gathering.

Mark Ring, Group Director – Energy & Power, Informa, said, "This event has always been about bringing the global energy and power community together to share ideas, showcase innovation and drive progress. By hosting the 2026 edition in September, we are ensuring that exhibitors and attendees have the opportunity to make the most of this important event. We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience for everyone and look forward to welcoming the energy sector to Dubai this September.”

Middle East Energy Dubai 2026 will provide practical insights. (Image source: Informa)

Informa has announced the completion of preparations for the 50th edition of Middle East Energy Dubai 2026, scheduled to take place from 7th to 9th April 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

The exhibition is the region's leading platform for the energy sector, enabling organisations to compare solutions, engage directly with suppliers, and accelerate project progress. The event attracts exhibitors from around the world, alongside broad participation from senior officials and decision-makers.

The exhibition also aims to support entities and institutions navigating current market dynamics, including delivery pressures, advanced technologies, and renewable energy priorities. It empowers participants to select partners, evaluate new products, and fast-track commercial discussions.

Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Electricity, Water and Future Energy Sector at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, affirmed that the ministry's patronage of the 50th edition reflects the UAE's commitment to supporting specialised international platforms that enhance energy system integration and reinforce the country's position as a global hub for dialogue and cooperation in the energy sector.

He noted that the exhibition represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen partnerships and showcase the latest technologies and solutions supporting the energy sector's transformation, in line with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. It further contributes to enhancing energy security and sustainability while supporting the competitiveness of the national economy.

"Middle East Energy brings buyers and sellers together, turning interest into actual demand," said Mark Ring, Group Director of Energy at Informa. He added that this edition focuses on outcomes through targeted business matchmaking, meaningful networking, product and service comparison, and delivering the insights and collaboration needed to drive trade today and accelerate the energy transition.

Middle East Energy Dubai 2026 will feature a comprehensive programme of specialised panel discussions, with the participation of more than 150 speakers from industry leaders and international experts.

They will provide practical insights on energy transition, energy security, technological innovation, and sustainability, equipping decision-makers with the knowledge needed to conclude deals.

The exhibition further strengthens its position as a high-impact industrial marketplace. Its previous edition recorded commercial participation valued at approximately US$4.05bn, with 1,600 exhibitors and around 30,000 visitors and energy professionals. More than 1,200 senior officials and decision-makers attended, reflecting its global reach and influence.