International officials at the 15th session of the IRENA Assembly have highlighted the UAE’s remarkable leadership in energy transition initiatives. These efforts are crucial in achieving the global goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030. The assembly began on January 12, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, coinciding with the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, which showcases the UAE’s commitment to sustainable energy.

During the discussions, officials emphasized that the UAE is a regional leader in solar energy and photovoltaic solar projects. The nation’s substantial investments in large-scale renewable energy projects have solidified its status as both a regional and global hub for renewable energy production. Sonia Dunlop, CEO of the Global Solar Council, remarked on the ongoing collaboration with various governments and companies in the Middle East to meet ambitious renewable energy targets, primarily focusing on photovoltaic solar energy and storage solutions.

Dunlop noted that the UAE’s renewable energy projects not only enhance the country’s national energy portfolio but also contribute significantly to the GCC’s renewable energy landscape. However, she pointed out that there is still a pressing need for additional projects within the GCC and the broader Middle East to meet global targets. She highlighted that in 2024, approximately 600 gigawatts of solar energy were generated worldwide, with expectations that the demand for solar-generated electricity will surpass 650 gigawatts in the current year.

The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, running until January 18, serves as a vital platform for promoting sustainable energy initiatives. Dunlop emphasized the significance of this global event, where the UAE aims to lead the conversation on renewable energy deployment, extending its influence from the capital to the global community.

Additionally, Jakob Lau Holst, CEO of the Global Wind Organisation (GWO), expressed that the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week presents a unique opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of scaling up renewable energy sources. Holst aims to attract more skilled technicians to the renewable energy sector, both from the UAE and internationally, by showcasing the GWO’s work during the week. The organization plans to host several workshops, including sessions focused on expanding renewable energy resources.

The GWO has trained approximately 590 renewable energy technicians from 50 different countries, yet the limited adoption of wind energy in Middle Eastern nations remains a challenge. To address this, the GWO is collaborating with the Global Solar Council to strengthen its network within the UAE and the region, particularly by enhancing its engagement with solar energy communities and establishing training standards for solar energy.