GCC Nations Set Bold Renewable Energy Targets at Bahrain Summit

The Gulf Cooperation Council countries have unveiled ambitious renewable energy goals at the second edition of the Global Water, Energy and Climate Change Congress held in Manama, Bahrain. Leaders from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait reaffirmed their commitment to a sustainable future by setting clear targets for clean energy adoption and carbon neutrality.

Unified Vision for a Sustainable Future

Under the theme “Sustainable Water and Energy Transition – Innovating for a Secure Future,” the congress served as a platform for GCC leaders to discuss strategies for addressing climate change and enhancing water and energy security. The conference highlighted the region's collective efforts to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.

His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of Bahrain, inaugurated the event, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration in tackling climate challenges. He was joined by His Excellency Mr. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, who expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for hosting the summit and supporting joint Gulf initiatives.

Country-Specific Renewable Energy Targets

The GCC nations presented their individual renewable energy targets, reflecting a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy sources:

  • United Arab Emirates (UAE): Aiming for 44 percent clean energy by 2050, with significant investments in solar and nuclear energy projects.

  • Saudi Arabia: Targeting 50 percent renewable energy by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, backed by large-scale solar and wind energy projects.

  • Bahrain: Planning to generate 20 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

  • Oman: Aiming for 30 percent renewable energy by 2030, 39 percent by 2040, and carbon neutrality by 2050.

  • Qatar: Targeting 20 percent renewable energy by 2030.

  • Kuwait: Planning to generate 15 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Innovative Solutions and Regional Collaboration

The congress also focused on innovative solutions to address the intertwined challenges of water scarcity, energy demand, and climate change. Discussions centered on advancements in desalination technologies, renewable energy integration, and smart grid systems. Experts emphasized the need for regional collaboration to share knowledge, resources, and technologies to effectively tackle these challenges.

The GCC countries have already made significant strides in renewable energy adoption. By mid-2025, the region had launched over 90 renewable energy projects, with 16.5 gigawatts installed and 13.5 gigawatts under construction. Achieving the 2030 targets requires accelerated efforts and increased investments.