International exhibitions specialising in renewable energy enhance the UAE's presence in the new global energy landscape

The trust of different countries around the world in Dubai as an ideal host and organiser of international events and exhibitions, especially in the fields of sustainability and energy, enhances the Emirate's pivotal role in accelerating sustainable development and the adoption of clean and renewable energy technologies. Thanks to the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai’s events have become global gatherings that attract thousands of investors, decision makers, experts and companies from around the globe. These events serve as an integrated platform for the development of clean technologies, and provide flexible and innovative financing solutions that contribute to the promotion of public-private partnerships worldwide and the launch of more outstanding projects driving energy diversification and the pursuit of net zero. This also supports the UAE's economic growth by empowering national and local companies, and enhancing the competitiveness of national exports and products in vital sectors.

The energy sector has been an important enabler of economic development and growth in the UAE, accounting for approximately a third of its GDP. In light of this, events, conferences and exhibitions have emerged as important avenues that provide an opportunity for the country to shine the spotlight on its national and local companies in the green energy sector, helping them to expand in global markets.

Several elements play a pivotal role in broadening the country's energy exports to include affordable renewable energy, advanced clean technologies and specialised services. These include the abundance of clean and renewable sources, including solar energy, world-class infrastructure and the appropriate legislative environment in Dubai, as well as the expertise of the Emirate’s various sectors and the continuous development of its knowledge-based economy. Additionally, the country has invested in educational courses, programmes, events and exhibitions to ensure it maintains its position as one of the world's major energy exporters, thereby keeping pace with growing demand. This has bolstered its standing as a leader in the new global energy landscape which witnesses an increasing interest in green energy. Renewable Capacity Statistics 2025 released by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) shows renewables accounted for over 90% of total power expansion globally in 2024, with 585 GW of capacity additions.

Dubai's success in hosting major global conferences and exhibitions, including the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) and Expo 2020 Dubai, underscores the Emirate's credentials as a global city and the best destination to live, work and invest worldwide. It also highlights the growing role of the UAE in leading global dialogue on energy security and sustainability, and establishing an enduring legacy for future generations.

Dubai also hosts annually the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) – organised by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy. The exhibition reflects the UAE's steadfast commitment to mobilise efforts to achieve national and global climate goals and expand the use of green energy.

As the region’s largest specialised trade fair, spanning key sectors such as energy, water, green development, sustainability and smart cities, alongside other related sectors, and one of the world’s largest specialised exhibitions of its kind, WETEX provides an important opportunity for companies and government and private institutions to reach thousands of exhibitors, participants, officials and decision-makers to strike deals and build partnerships, as well as identify market needs, especially in light of the significant expansion in the use of renewable energy technologies in the UAE and the region at large.

After over a quarter of a century since its inception, and thanks to the support of the wise leadership, WETEX has become a leading global event in support of the green economy and a standout event on the global sustainability calendar. Today, it serves as a key pillar in the drive to achieve the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, playing a crucial role in ensuring that the country remains an inspiration for other nations seeking to excel in sustainability and renewable energy. Additionally, it provides all the necessary resources to solidify the UAE’s leadership in these critical sectors that shape a more sustainable future for generations to come.