By: Utilities Middle east

The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has announced its comprehensive strategic framework for the energy and water sector through to 2050, according to the Emirates News Agency.

The announcement was made during the Department’s participation in the 2025 World Utilities Congress at ADNEC Abu Dhabi Centre, attended by decision-makers, senior officials, and experts in energy, water, and sustainable technologies.

This announcement comes in the context of rapid economic growth in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, with its GDP surpassing the one trillion dirham mark, reinforcing its status as one of the fastest-growing economies globally. The energy and water sector has played a vital role in supporting this exceptional growth.

According to the Emirates News Agency, Dr Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, stated, “This strategic framework represents a comprehensive roadmap for the future of the energy and water sector in the Emirate. It is built upon an ambitious vision aimed at transforming the sector into a global model of efficiency, innovation, and sustainability, in line with our wise leadership’s aspirations to build a diversified, net-zero economy by 2050.”

He added, “We continue working to cement Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for innovation in energy, powered by artificial intelligence and advanced digital solutions.”

The new strategic framework is based on four main objectives: ensuring secure and sustainable supply; achieving the highest levels of efficiency in supply and demand; supporting decarbonisation efforts through smart and economically efficient means; and maximising the economic value of energy and water resources.

The framework also includes key programmes such as digital transformation, expanding investments in artificial intelligence, enhancing international partnerships, developing national talents, and regulatory reforms aimed at encouraging private sector participation and attracting international investors.

The plan aims to attract up to AED 400 billion in foreign direct investment by 2050, increase local content in key supply chains to 65 per cent, and achieve 100 per cent Emiratisation of critical jobs in the sector.

This framework is expected to strengthen economic growth opportunities by attracting capital and global technologies, thereby reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for sustainable energy.

The Department of Energy reaffirmed its commitment to leading the development of policies, strategies, and regulatory systems for this vital sector. It also emphasised strengthening cooperation with local and international entities and empowering society to contribute to the journey towards a more prosperous and sustainable future.

In conclusion, the Department of Energy called on innovators and thinkers worldwide to join its journey towards a sustainable future, affirming that this framework provides a platform for innovation and fresh thinking to address challenges and deliver solutions that contribute to the prosperity of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.