UAE plans Dh200 billion energy investment by 2030: Suhail Al Mazrouei

In a high-level Ministerial Panel at ADIPEC 2026, Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, underscored that energy security is a paramount national and economic priority, particularly in light of geopolitical instability, escalating global demand, and burgeoning energy needs of cutting-edge industries, artificial intelligence, and data centers.

Mazrouei outlined the UAE's dedication to constructing a steadfast, cost-effective, and resilient energy system through diversification, strategic investment, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and enhanced coordination between the government and private sectors.

The minister asserted that energy security transcends mere supply assurance; it revolves around cultivating an integrated, resilient, and competitive energy system capable of fueling economic expansion, fortifying essential services, and addressing future challenges adeptly. Diversification remains a cornerstone of the UAE's energy strategy, with renewable energy, nuclear power, and natural gas each contributing to a reliable and competitive energy supply.

In 2025, clean energy supplied 32.4% of electricity in the UAE, signaling advancement towards the national objective of 35% by 2031.

Mazrouei spotlighted the UAE's intention to invest Dh150–200 billion by 2030 to cater to escalating demand and bolster the nation's energy infrastructure, encompassing generation capacity, electricity networks, storage, and integrated system operations. He highlighted the significance of incorporating physical security, cybersecurity, climate resilience, and business continuity into energy planning and investment decisions.

Emphasizing the necessity of collaboration between government entities and energy operators, he highlighted the importance of enhancing emergency preparedness, safeguarding critical assets, and ensuring the uninterrupted provision of vital services.

Furthermore, Mazrouei emphasized the burgeoning importance of developing local manufacturing capacities, preserving access to essential equipment, and nurturing specialized national talent. He also stressed the growing necessity for flexibility in energy supply and demand to bolster national energy security and industrial competitiveness.

By harmonizing generation, storage, electricity networks, and consumption patterns, the UAE can better manage surging demand, augment efficiency, and diminish susceptibility to supply disruptions and price volatility.

The minister highlighted the value of strategic alliances between governments, energy producers, technology developers, investors, and industrial consumers to expedite innovation, draw investment, and reinforce supply chain resilience. Mazrouei asserted that unambiguous national priorities, predictable regulatory frameworks, and closer cooperation between public and private sector stakeholders are indispensable to ushering advanced energy technologies and infrastructure solutions into the market.

Ultimately, he reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to fostering an energy system that balances security, affordability, sustainability, and economic competitiveness, emphasizing that sustained investment in diverse energy sources, resilient infrastructure, cutting-edge technologies, and international partnerships will be pivotal in meeting future demand, stimulating industrial growth, and advancing the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the country's Net Zero 2050 objectives.