Energy in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates is a major global energy player, primarily due to its abundant hydrocarbon resources and strategic location. The UAE holds the seventh-largest proven oil reserves in the world, with significant natural gas reserves as well. Energy production and management are dominated by state-owned companies, most notably Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), which oversees exploration, extraction, refining, and marketing of oil and gas both domestically and internationally.
Unlike some energy-importing countries, the UAE benefits from a surplus of energy production over domestic consumption, making it a net exporter of crude oil, natural gas, and refined petroleum products. The nation also faces the challenge of balancing domestic energy demand—driven by rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and high per capita electricity consumption—with global market volatility and long-term economic diversification goals.
In line with UAE Vision 2031 and the Energy Strategy 2050, the country is investing heavily in diversifying its energy mix. While fossil fuels remain the backbone of electricity production, the UAE is increasingly integrating renewable energy, particularly solar and nuclear power, to reduce carbon emissions and enhance sustainability. Projects such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park and the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant are central to this transition, targeting a renewable and nuclear share of 50% of total energy output by 2050.
Key Energy Statistics – UAE (2023 Estimates)
| Metric | UAE Statistics (Approximate) |
| Electricity Access | Nearly 100% (universal access) |
| Electricity Production | 126 billion kWh |
| Electricity Consumption | 118 billion kWh |
| Electricity Production from Fossil Fuels | 90% (natural gas and crude oil) |
| Electricity Production from Renewable & Nuclear | 10%(solar, nuclear) |
| Crude Oil Production | 3.2 million bbl./day |
| Crude Oil Exports | 2.6 million bbl./day |
| Crude Oil Proved Reserves | 97.8 billion bbl. |
| Refined Petroleum Products Production | 1.8 million bbl./day |
| Refined Petroleum Products Consumption | 400,000 bbl./day |
| Natural Gas Production | 59 billion cubic meters |
| Natural Gas Consumption | 50 billion cubic meters |
| Renewable Energy Target (Vision 2050) | 50% of total power generation from renewable & nuclear sources by 2050 |
The UAE has also prioritized energy efficiency and sustainable water management, including desalination plants powered by nuclear and renewable energy. This strategy ensures long-term energy security, supports economic diversification, and aligns with global environmental commitments.