A delegation from the UAE recently concluded a three-day visit to France, where they engaged in discussions about opportunities for cooperation and shared best practices with key French stakeholders. The meetings focused on innovative approaches to addressing the challenges posed by the energy transition.

This visit is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to foster partnerships with other nations aimed at advancing sustainable development and enhancing energy security. Key topics included advancements related to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) regulations and infrastructure, as well as hydrogen, nuclear innovation, and strategies for decarbonisation.

The delegation was led by Eng. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. Accompanying him were Mohammed Al Hawi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Investment, and representatives from various organizations, including AMMROC, Emirates, the General Civil Aviation Authority, Bee’ah, Masdar, Emirates Nuclear Energy Company, and the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation.

Eng. Al Olama noted that the UAE and France share a strong commitment to progress and innovation, and he expressed gratitude to the French officials for their warm hospitality. He highlighted the importance of the tour in supporting the UAE’s clean energy transition by fostering bilateral cooperation and acquiring actionable knowledge to further national sustainability goals.

During the first day of meetings in Paris, the delegation participated in discussions at MEDEF International, a prominent network of French companies. Here, they explored ongoing cooperation projects and potential expansions. Representatives from both nations also shared insights into their national hydrogen strategies and presented various hydrogen development projects from leading French energy companies.

The focus on nuclear energy technologies included briefings on the French nuclear value chain, fuel management challenges, and recent advancements in small modular reactors. Al Olama emphasized that cooperation is vital for the UAE’s strategic partnerships in the energy sector with France, aiming to strengthen economic ties and achieve decarbonisation targets.

On the second day, the delegation visited the Innovation Hub of Schneider Electric, where they learned about AI-driven solutions for energy optimization. They also toured the R&D labs of Air Liquide, gaining insights into cutting-edge technologies in the industry.

Additionally, a representative from the French Civil Aviation Authority discussed regulations promoting SAF, while a member of the UAE delegation outlined their national strategy to increase the use of SAF in aviation. Eng. Al Olama engaged in a productive dialogue about sustainability with representatives from key companies, including Airbus and Total Energies.

The final day of the tour took the delegation to Toulouse, where they visited the Airbus mock-up center and the A350 Final Assembly Line, one of the most modern production facilities in the aviation sector. They also met with UAE graduates who are currently interning at Airbus.

The strong ties between the UAE and France have been further strengthened in recent years, marking a significant partnership in the energy sector.