In a significant step towards sustainable energy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has successfully launched a comprehensive National Hydrogen Strategy, with the support of GHD and Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Integrated Energy Systems CINES. This strategy aligns with the UAE’s vision to be a leading global producer of low-carbon hydrogen by its 60th anniversary in 2031.
Commissioned by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), the strategy is founded on fact-based analysis, evaluating opportunities and challenges for establishing a hydrogen-based economy in the country. Leveraging its abundant natural gas reserves, high solar radiance, and strategic location as an energy and business hub, the UAE aims to become a frontrunner in low-carbon hydrogen production.
GHD and Fraunhofer collaborated closely in designing the strategic framework and gathering stakeholder insights, ensuring the accuracy of hydrogen production data. The partnership played a vital role in positioning the UAE at the forefront of hydrogen development, fostering sustainable growth, and driving advancements in the field.
Key highlights of the National Hydrogen Strategy include targeting the production of 1.4 million tonnes per annum of low-emission hydrogen by 2031, with 71.4% being green hydrogen. The UAE aims to create thousands of new green jobs by 2031, contributing to economic growth and developing a skilled renewable energy workforce. Plans also involve establishing two hydrogen oases (hubs) and a research and development center by 2031, evolving into a globally recognized innovation hub for hydrogen by 2050.
The UAE government is now set to develop a Low Carbon Hydrogen policy, further solidifying its commitment to achieving net-zero targets and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in the UAE’s transition to a low-carbon economy, unlocking opportunities, and promoting green economic growth. The National Hydrogen Strategy will pave the way for the UAE to lead the global hydrogen market and foster a cleaner, greener future for all.
His Excellency Eng Sharif Al Olama, MOEI’s Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs said, “We are committed to implementing the National Hydrogen Strategy to unlock opportunities and benefits and achieve our net-zero target. Our goal is to establish the UAE as a leader in the global hydrogen market, create new economic opportunities, and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.”
Thomas Evans, Executive Advisor at GHD said, “Building a successful hydrogen economy requires multiple complex enablers to come together, including infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a clear and consistent policy environment. GHD is committed to unlocking sustainable pathways to net-zero, and developing a hydrogen economy is a critical part of the broader decarbonization puzzle.”
Dr. Jan Frederik Braun, Head of Hydrogen Cooperation (MENA Region) at Fraunhofer CINES said, “This hydrogen strategy, developed together with all key hydrogen and energy stakeholders in the UAE, considers all aspects of the hydrogen value chain: Production, distribution, and usage. The UAE’s opportunities to create value in the emerging global hydrogen market will lie in its ability to produce innovative and competitive hydrogen-based end products along the entire value chain.”
 unveils a robust National Hydrogen Strategy, aiming to be a global leader in low-carbon hydrogen production by 2031. Commissioned by the UAE government, the strategy leverages abundant natural resources and strategic partnerships to create a sustainable hydrogen-based economy. Key highlights include green job creation, infrastructure expansion, and ambitious hydrogen production targets, marking a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future.){kind=link}