GCC-Stat Report Highlights 88% Solar Growth, Rising Climate Resilience and Net-Zero Targets Across Gulf Nations

The Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf has reported significant progress in renewable energy deployment and climate resilience across Gulf countries, according to its Climate Statistics 2024 report.

The report indicates notable changes in regional climate patterns, with rainfall levels in 2024 rising by 49.4% compared to the long-term average between 1980 and 2010. Temperature data collected from 23 monitoring stations across GCC countries showed relative stability, with maximum temperatures remaining below 49°C between 2012 and 2024, without extreme spikes.

Renewable energy capacity witnessed substantial growth, particularly in the solar sector. Installed solar power capacity recorded an average annual growth rate of 88.1% between 2013 and 2024. Electricity generation from solar energy increased significantly, rising from 0.13 thousand GWh in 2013 to 23.5 thousand GWh in 2023.

Wind energy capacity also expanded during the period, growing from 4.8 MW in 2015 to 567 MW in 2024, reflecting broader diversification in renewable energy sources across the region.

The report further noted that all GCC countries have implemented advanced early warning systems using mobile cell broadcast technology to enhance preparedness and response to extreme weather events. Climate change and adaptation topics have also been integrated into national education curricula to strengthen long-term awareness and resilience.

At the international level, GCC countries have collectively submitted 16 reports to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change as of November 2025, demonstrating ongoing engagement with global climate frameworks.

The countries have also outlined ambitious net-zero emission targets, with timelines set for 2050 by the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait (in the oil and gas sector), and 2060 targets for the Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and remaining sectors in Kuwait.

The report also highlighted strong trade linkages, with China accounting for 99.4% of photovoltaic cell imports into GCC countries in 2024, valued at approximately $2.4 billion, underscoring its role as a key supplier of clean energy technologies.

Overall, the findings reflect the region’s growing focus on sustainable development, environmental protection, and international collaboration in addressing climate change challenges.