(Clean Energy Project in UAE)

The UAE in 2026: Global Projects and Investments Paving the Way for a Clean Energy Future

The UAE continues to solidify its position as a global hub for clean energy investment and the dissemination of sustainability solutions through a package of projects announced for funding and implementation this year, 2026, by a group of specialized national companies.

These projects embody the UAE's commitment to providing sustainable and reliable solutions to address global energy challenges, especially as the announced projects extend across the most populous continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe). This enhances their economic returns and positive environmental impact in terms of reducing carbon emissions and addressing the challenges of climate change.

Last January, the UAE adopted the Sustainable Digital Services Guide for the Federal Government, which aims to adopt renewable energy, leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing, and employ environmentally friendly practices in information technology operations.

Self-Supply Policy for Photovoltaic Energy

During the World Government Summit 2026, the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy launched a self-supply policy for photovoltaic (solar) energy. This policy enables the use of smart and flexible solutions for generating, storing, and consuming clean energy. It empowers the agricultural sector, including farms, rest houses, and ranches in Abu Dhabi, to rely on renewable energy sources, supporting the emirate's goals of transitioning to a sustainable and efficient energy system.

Clean Energy Projects in the UAE

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) announced its collaboration with Elite Agro, a leading global company in agriculture, food production, and development, to launch the first agricultural solar photovoltaic project in the Middle East and North Africa region. Located at the company's Al Foah Farm in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, this project will serve as a widely applicable model for sustainable agriculture and the integration of renewable energy solutions in the region.

7.7 GW of Renewable Energy

This comes at a time when the UAE’s installed renewable energy capacity has exceeded 7.7 GW, with projects underway that will raise the total capacity to more than 23 GW by 2031. The UAE’s installed renewable energy capacity also recorded a growth of 117% between 2022 and 2025, reflecting the effectiveness of national policies and the accelerated implementation of strategic projects aimed at building a more sustainable and efficient energy system.

Masdar Projects

In 2026, Masdar launched several global strategic projects, most notably the development of the 150 MW Quibungo solar power project in Angola under the Royal Sable program. This project will contribute to the stability of the electricity grid, support sustainable development, serve approximately 300,000 homes, and create more than 2,000 jobs.

Masdar has completed financial close for its 300 MW Guzar solar power project in Uzbekistan and a 75 MW battery energy storage system, representing an international investment exceeding $2 billion.

Masdar and Total Energy also signed a binding agreement to establish a 50% partnership, with a total value of up to $2.2 billion. As part of this partnership, the two companies will combine their onshore renewable energy projects in nine Asian countries.

Global South Utilities’ Activity

In parallel with Masdar’s activities, Global South Utilities, a subsidiary of Resources Investments, is strengthening the UAE’s presence in the clean energy sector at the international and regional levels through innovative projects that contribute to the global energy transition.

The company announced the launch of a 5-megawatt solar power plant in Berbera, in the Horn of Africa, as part of the “Berbera Green Vision.” This vision aims to transition from diesel reliance to a renewable energy system supported by energy storage systems, ensuring clean electricity for hundreds of homes and businesses, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing energy security in the region.

Global South Utilities has entered into a strategic industrial partnership with the Chinese company Weiheng, a global manufacturer of battery energy storage systems. The goal is to localize the manufacturing of advanced clean energy technologies in Abu Dhabi, supporting the UAE’s industrial development efforts, the energy transition, and strengthening supply chains geared towards markets in the Global South.