Energy Policy of the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

This paper analyzes the history of the energy sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It highlights the drive for energy sustainability and the need to diversify the economic sector. It assesses the advanced technologies of renewable energy (RE) production.

The study explains the rationale for the transition to RE in one of the leading oil and gas-producing countries. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the risks that the UAE may face in the process of transition from a hydrocarbon-based economy to a sustainable energy-based economy.

The transition to clean energy is driven by a number of interrelated factors and motivations, such as economic diversification, energy security, and environmental concerns. However, the data collected during the in-depth analysis suggests that the importance of the societal, political, and geopolitical impact of the transition in hydrocarbon-exporting countries such as the UAE continues to be undermined at both the academic and policy levels. Thus, the paper argues that there is a need to rethink the assessment of a successful transition.

The study begins with an overview of the UAE’s energy sector, discussing the potential for renewable energy and key sustainable energy initiatives. It then examines the need for a sustainable energy transition in a country dependent on traditional fossil fuels. It also explains the key policy reforms that are driving change. The final section examines the key barriers preventing the Emirates from achieving sustainable economic growth, energy security and geopolitical leadership.

Key words: energy security, sustainable development, green economy, renewable energy.