The World Future Energy Summit (WFES), hosted by Masdar as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, will return to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 13–15 January 2026 for what promises to be its largest and most forward-looking edition to date.
Having evolved into a global platform that unites sustainability leaders from business, government, academia, and civil society, the 18th edition of the Summit is expected to welcome record-breaking attendance from exhibitors, government partners, and industry professionals. Leading organisations such as IRENA and the EU Hydrogen Council will host specialised in-show summits, reflecting the rapid acceleration of clean energy investment across the region.
The UAE continues to demonstrate strong climate leadership, pledging US$54 billion in renewable energy investments by 2030, mobilising US$83 billion in climate-related clean technologies during COP28, and announcing an additional US$30 billion through the Alterra Fund. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has committed US$270 billion to expanding its renewable energy portfolio and nearly US$200 billion to climate initiatives under the Saudi Green Initiative.
Building on this momentum, the 2026 Summit will focus on turning commitments into tangible solutions. Through a dynamic mix of exhibitions, conferences, and innovation hubs, WFES will connect policymakers, investors, and industry pioneers to accelerate technology deployment, foster partnerships, and scale up financing for clean energy projects.
Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Director of Brand and Strategic Initiatives at Masdar, said the Summit remains where the global energy ecosystem comes together to do business, convening leaders from government, energy, technology and finance to drive partnerships and real-world deployment.
This edition will feature several new thematic zones, including FUSE AI — a first-of-its-kind exploration area accompanied by a two-day conference dedicated to artificial intelligence solutions for energy systems, smart cities, and climate resilience. Over 40 companies will showcase AI-powered innovations in grid stability, renewable integration, and climate modelling, reflecting the growing commitment to AI-driven sustainability across the Middle East.
The Greenhouse, an expanded startup platform, will spotlight more than 50 startups across clean energy, mobility, water, and climate tech — building upon the legacy of The Climate Innovations Exchange.
A new collaboration with Greenpeace Middle East and North Africa will introduce the Greenpeace Cinema, which will use storytelling and visual media to shed light on pressing environmental challenges. Greenpeace will also host a half-day conference exploring practical pathways toward a just and sustainable transition.
The Summit will again feature Carbon Forward, designed to help public and private sector stakeholders navigate climate risks and opportunities. High-level sessions, including the EU Hydrogen Council Summit, will align global hydrogen strategies with real-world investment flows.
Country Pavilions will highlight national clean energy strategies, technologies, and talent. Edward Hobart, British Ambassador to the UAE, remarked that the Summit illustrates how innovation, investment, and collaboration can unlock new clean energy opportunities. He emphasized the UK’s commitment to deepening partnerships that promote sustainable growth and green employment.
The conference programme will encompass seven main tracks, including the debut Artificial Intelligence Conference, focusing on responsible AI integration across energy, infrastructure, and smart cities. Other forums will include Solar and Clean Energy, Circular Economy, eMobility and Sustainable Cities, Pathways to 1.5°C, The Water Conference, and Green Finance.
According to Shyam Parmar, Event Director, the 2026 Summit will deliver more interactive experiences and a stronger focus on AI-enabled energy innovation — creating a space where data, creativity, and sustainability converge to transform insight into action.
As the world accelerates toward a cleaner future, the World Future Energy Summit 2026 arrives at a crucial moment — offering a comprehensive platform of national pavilions, startup showcases, thematic conferences, and innovation hubs that advance global climate goals and drive practical progress across the energy sector.
(Inputs from WAM)
