As part of its ambitious clean energy transition, the UAE has accelerated its investment in green hydrogen, a zero-emission fuel seen as vital for decarbonizing heavy industries and transport sectors. The country’s flagship project, Masdar Green Hydrogen Hub, has entered its second phase, with full-scale production expected by 2026.

What Is Green Hydrogen?

Unlike traditional hydrogen, which is produced using fossil fuels, green hydrogen is created by using renewable energy (like solar or wind) to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The result: a clean fuel that emits only water vapor when used.

This makes green hydrogen essential for reducing carbon emissions in hard-to-electrify sectors such as:

Steel and cement manufacturing

Aviation and shipping

Power storage and backup generation

UAE’s Strategic Advantage

With abundant sunlight and world-class solar infrastructure, the UAE is uniquely positioned to become a global green hydrogen hub. Masdar City and the Al Dhafra Solar Project are already powering electrolyzers for pilot production.

The UAE has signed export agreements with Germany, Japan, and the Netherlands, paving the way for hydrogen shipping routes and investment in liquefaction facilities at Jebel Ali Port.

Public-Private Collaboration

Major partners in the initiative include ADNOC, DEWA, Siemens Energy, and ENGIE. These stakeholders are working on scalable production facilities and exploring hydrogen-based ammonia and e-fuel technologies.

Regional and Global Impact

With COP28 hosted in the UAE, green hydrogen took center stage as a key pillar of global decarbonization. The country’s early leadership is attracting billions in clean energy investment and positioning it as a regional sustainability leader.