Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy ambitions are extending far beyond the construction of some of the world’s largest solar projects, as the emirate works to build an integrated energy ecosystem that attracts global investment, supports economic diversification and creates new opportunities for future generations, according to a senior official at the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE).
In an interview with Aletihad, Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Obaidli, Director General of Regulatory Affairs at the DoE, said that projects such as Noor Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra and Al Ajban Solar PV have helped position the emirate as a global benchmark for large-scale solar deployment.
These projects demonstrate “Abu Dhabi’s ability to deliver renewable energy at world scale, with high efficiency and competitive costs,” Al Obaidli told Aletihad.
Today, clean energy accounts for around 45% of Abu Dhabi’s electricity mix, with the emirate targeting 60% by 2035, according to Al Obaidli.
He noted that Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy model is now expanding beyond utility-scale projects to include distributed generation through the Solar Energy Self Supply Policy, which introduces rooftop solar and storage solutions that allow consumers to engage directly with the energy ecosystem.
“This combination of large projects and distributed solutions reflects a more mature energy ecosystem, where generation, consumption, and system management are increasingly integrated,” he said, noting that these projects demonstrate Abu Dhabi’s position not only as a renewable energy hub, but as one of the world’s most investable energy-transition systems.
Growing Workforce
As the sector expands, so does the demand for talent. Al Obaidli pointed to the UAE’s energy strategy target of creating 50,000 green jobs, reflecting the growing role of clean energy in economic development and in-country value creation.
“This growth is supporting the development of a broader ecosystem around skills, innovation and local industry,” he said.
Al Obaidli emphasised that the energy transition is creating new capabilities across engineering, digital systems, project development, operations, and advanced water and power technologies.
Attracting Global Investment
According to Al Obaidli, the emirate remains highly competitive by global standards, offering large-scale opportunities, strong institutional frameworks and a proven track record of delivery. “Projects are supported by clear timelines, reliable counterparties and a stable regulatory environment,” he explained.
He noted that major renewable energy projects continue to attract leading global developers, investors and lenders through structured public-private partnership models, reflecting strong confidence in Abu Dhabi’s energy sector.
Through its 2050 energy and water framework, Abu Dhabi is targeting up to Dh400 billion in foreign direct investment while positioning the sector as a global model for efficiency, sustainability and innovation, which is already visible in major developments, including the round-the-clock solar and battery project, Al Obaidli said.
“Investment is also expanding into storage, digital infrastructure and demand-side solutions, further enhancing the attractiveness of the market,” he noted.
Supporting Diversification
Beyond energy generation, international renewable energy investments are contributing to Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification goals and strengthening its position as a global energy partner, Al Obaidli said.
“Our focus is on enabling a secure, efficient and sustainable energy system, with energy security as a central priority,” he said. Through coordinated system leadership, the DoE works to ensure international investments are aligned with long-term system needs, helping strengthen the resilience and diversity of the energy mix while reducing exposure to external shocks.
“At the same time, these investments support technology transfer, build local capabilities and contribute to the development of new value chains. Together, these outcomes reinforce Abu Dhabi’s role in the global energy transition while strengthening international partnerships and supporting the emirate’s wider economic diversification strategy.”
