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Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

Energy

The UAE has emerged as a global leader in nuclear energy deployment, showcasing a remarkable journey of strategic vision, technological innovation, and commitment to sustainable development.

This success was highlighted at a panel discussion during the World Utilities Congress, held in Abu Dhabi.

Mohammed Al Braiki, general manager, ENEC consulting vice president, ENEC Strategy, emphasised the country's transformative approach. 

"We were ambitious, bold, and committed," he stated, reflecting on the nation's nuclear journey that began in 2009. 

The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant now supplies 25% of the UAE's electricity, avoiding 22.4 million tons of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to taking four million cars off the road.

What sets the UAE's approach apart is its comprehensive strategy. The country has not just built nuclear infrastructure but created an entire ecosystem around it. "We invested a lot in outreach programs," Al Braiki explained, highlighting their commitment to public education and acceptance. Remarkably, the program maintains an 85% public acceptance rate, a testament to transparent communication and strategic implementation.

The global nuclear landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, director general of the World Nuclear Association, noted the industry's newfound pragmatism. "It's simply not possible to reach Paris Agreement goals, energy security, and economic development without nuclear energy," she emphasised.

The timing couldn't be more critical. With the rising demands of artificial intelligence and data centers, nuclear energy is becoming increasingly attractive. Mohammed Al Braiki shared a striking projection: data center power consumption could grow from 2.5% of global power in 2025 to 8% by 2035, creating an unprecedented need for stable, clean energy sources.

The UAE's success extends beyond electricity generation. The nuclear program has created a robust industrial ecosystem, with $4.9 billion localised in supply chains. Companies are now exporting expertise and components to nuclear projects in the UK, Korea, and beyond.

Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. Thirty-one nations have pledged to triple nuclear capacity, with 14 major banks committing to support this expansion. 

Dr. Bilbao y León captured the essence of this transformation. "We are not just building power plants; we are creating an entire ecosystem of clean energy professionals," she said.

Other perspectives

Karim Amin, board member, Siemens Energy, said, "Nuclear energy is not a stop and go technology. We need to show it's not just a technology, but an important pillar for climate resilience, energy sovereignty, and economic development. If we communicate properly, we will find traction with the younger generation."

Neil Wilmshurst is SVP, Chief Nuclear Strategy Officer and MD of EPRI Gulf, along with being chair - U.S. Member Committee, World Energy Council

"We need to change how we communicate about nuclear energy - stop apologising and start leading with its benefits. The dream is to have common codes and standards across the world, which would rationalise components and make supply chain management more efficient," he said. 

Loyiso Tyabashe, group CEO South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa), said, "The nuclear industry has been very good at talking to itself, and it's time to broaden the conversation. Advocacy is crucial, where we show the pros and cons of the technology, just like any other technology. We need to engage academia, industries, and influential community members to change perceptions."




Sri Lanka's water management challenges have drawn international attention. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

Water

In an era of increasing water scarcity and climate uncertainty, the UAE has emerged as a critical partner for island nations struggling with water security challenges. 

A recent panel during the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi highlighted the UAE's role in supporting Cyprus and Sri Lanka through technological assistance.

Cyprus, facing its most severe drought in three decades, received immediate and tangible support from the UAE. 

Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, emphasised this, stating, "Two days ago, Cyprus received desalination units of 15,000 cubic meters production of water per day. We have asked for help from the UAE, and the UAE responded positively. [It] responded immediately."

This gesture is more than a simple aid package; it represents a sophisticated approach to transboundary water cooperation. 

Panayiotou described it as "a tremendous help for Cyprus" that faces prolonged drought and severe water scarcity. 

The desalination units are part of Cyprus's broader strategy to achieve 100% water coverage by the end of the year, with a focus on using renewable energy and solar systems to reduce production costs.

Global South countries collaborate with each other

Similarly, Sri Lanka's water management challenges have drawn international attention. 

While the country boasts over 100 rivers and significant rainfall, political and infrastructural issues have complicated water distribution. 

The UAE's collaborative approach extends beyond immediate relief, supporting comprehensive water management strategies.

Both Cyprus and Sri Lanka view the UAE's support through a lens of regional cooperation and geopolitical partnership. 

As Panayiotou put it, "We act locally, but you have to think globally and cooperate regionally. This is important. We cannot do it by ourselves."

The support goes beyond mere technological transfer. It represents a model of diplomatic engagement where resource-rich nations assist countries facing environmental challenges. 

Anil Jayantha from Sri Lanka emphasised the importance of collaborative approaches, noting that solutions require working "together with all other ministries and international agencies."

As climate change continues to challenge traditional water management approaches, the UAE's support for Cyprus and Sri Lanka offers a blueprint for international cooperation.

It underscores the potential of strategic partnerships in addressing one of the most critical challenges of the 21st century: ensuring water security for vulnerable nations.

Egypt stands to benefit most from investing in energy-efficient construction. (Image source: Exergio)

Construction

Investing in energy-efficient buildings could yield enormous economic benefits for countries across the MENA, according to new research from the BUILD_ME initiative.

The analysis, which focused on Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon, found that for every €1 spent on energy efficiency today, governments and consumers could see returns of up to €7 in the future.

The study identified 14 distinct co-benefits linked to energy-efficient buildings, including reduced energy bills, improved public health, job creation, and lower emissions.

Using just five indicators like energy cost reductions, healthcare savings, improved indoor comfort, lower public subsidies, and employment growth, the analysis projected significant macroeconomic gains.

Egypt stands to benefit most from investing in energy-efficient construction, with potential savings exceeding €18 billion.

These gains would stem from reduced electricity consumption, fewer pollution-related health issues, and greater productivity among workers.

Lebanon’s projected savings are even higher, at around €23 billion, driven largely by cutting energy bills in residential buildings, lowering emissions, and decreasing reliance on diesel generators.

Jordan, while showing more modest figures, could still save approximately €2.5 billion by reducing electricity demand and improving air quality in buildings.

“Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon offer a snapshot of a much larger trend unfolding across MENA,” according to Donatas Karčiauskas, CEO of Exergio, a company developing AI-powered tools for optimising energy use in commercial buildings.

“We see similar dynamics in Oman and other Gulf countries, where extreme temperatures, growing cities, and strained energy systems are forcing to rethink how buildings are designed, renovated, and managed.”

This growing focus on energy efficiency in the region is not just an environmental imperative, but also a strategic response to rising energy demand, extreme temperatures, and the mounting climate crisis, according to Karčiauskas.

Governments across the Middle East and North Africa are now backing these efforts with new policies that promote greener, more sustainable construction.

In Egypt, revised energy efficiency standards for common household appliances such as air conditioners and televisions came into effect in January 2024, signalling a shift toward stricter regulation.

Jordan has launched its Third National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (2024–2026), building on previous efforts to reduce consumption across multiple sectors.

Lebanon, meanwhile, has introduced the Lebanon Green Building Council, which plays a key role in promoting sustainable building practices.

The urgency of this shift is clear. Buildings in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon are among the largest consumers of energy and contributors to carbon emissions, accounting for between 20% and 35% of each country’s total CO₂ output.

In addition, poor air quality stemming from inefficient housing continues to impose a heavy financial and health burden, costing governments and citizens billions every year.

But the opportunity is equally substantial. If just 30% to 50% of new residential and commercial complexes were constructed according to energy-efficient standards, the region could cut more than 80 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions, save upwards of €20 billion in energy costs, and generate close to 200,000 jobs over the next 20 years. 

“The projected numbers mean that we need to scale energy-efficient construction rapidly and strategically. Prioritising digital retrofits can unlock immediate energy savings at lower costs, while targeted deep renovations should focus on the highest-impact buildings. For MENA, a hybrid approach will be needed, but eventually, all buildings will have to optimise energy using AI tools due to the amount of data,” said Karčiauskas.

One real-world example of how AI-driven solutions can accelerate energy efficiency comes from Exergio’s work with the Ozas shopping centre in Lithuania.

By analysing the building management system and integrating real-time HVAC controls with machine learning capabilities, Exergio was able to optimise the centre’s energy use. The result: a 29% drop in electricity consumption and a 36% reduction in heating demand, translating into nearly €1 million in cost savings.

According to Karčiauskas, this kind of outcome is only the beginning. 

"In MENA countries – where high temperatures, year-round cooling needs, and energy subsidies shape the market – the potential is even greater. Faster payback periods, higher baseline consumption, and a growing push for smart solutions make this region one of the most promising places for large-scale energy efficiency gains," said Karčiauskas.

Haul Track’s robust data lets managers set fuel efficiency targets. (Image source: Rokbak)

Mining

In the high-pressure world of mining, quarrying, and construction, fuel efficiency is a make-or-break factor for both profitability and environmental impact.

Garry Moore, a veteran customer support manager at Rokbak, a Scottish manufacturer of articulated dump trucks (ADTs), has spent nearly 20 years refining strategies to optimise heavy equipment performance.

Here, Moore unveils seven expert tips for harnessing Rokbak’s Haul Track telematics system to slash fuel expenses, curb carbon emissions, and boost site productivity.

Here are seven ways to achieve it

1. Keep engines in top shape for fuel savings

A neglected engine burns more fuel and pumps out excess emissions. Haul Track’s real-time diagnostics alert managers to issues like blocked filters or suboptimal fuel systems, enabling quick fixes. By acting on these email notifications, operators ensure ADTs run lean, saving fuel and reducing environmental harm.

2. Spot and fix delays with idling insights

Trucks idling in queues waste fuel and stall progress. Using Haul Track’s GPS and idle-time tracking, managers can identify bottlenecks where ADTs wait for loaders. Moore suggests rebalancing fleet setups—adjusting loader or hauler sizes—to keep operations moving, cutting fuel use and CO2 output while ramping up efficiency.

3. Maximise loads with precision weighing

Half-empty trucks force extra trips, inflating fuel costs and equipment wear. Rokbak’s On-Board Weigh, synced with Haul Track, provides live load data, empowering operators to fill trucks to capacity every time. This approach boosts output, conserves fuel, and keeps production targets on track.

4. Redesign sites for shorter, smarter routes

Inefficient haul roads and traffic snarls sap fuel economy. Haul Track’s movement tracking, combined with fuel and idle reports, works across all equipment brands to highlight trouble spots. By streamlining routes and easing congestion, managers can trim fuel bills, lower emissions, and extend machine life.

5. Coach operators for smoother driving

Aggressive driving habits, like rapid acceleration or sudden stops, can inflate fuel consumption. Haul Track’s fuel usage comparisons reveal when specific trucks burn more than peers on similar tasks. Moore advocates using these insights for constructive training, helping drivers adopt smoother techniques to save fuel.

6. Protect tyres, save fuel

Underinflated tyres increase drag, forcing engines to work harder and wear out faster. Haul Track’s real-time tyre pressure monitoring catches issues early, allowing quick corrections. Proper inflation optimises fuel use, prolongs tyre durability, and enhances site safety.

7. Drive progress with clear performance goals

Haul Track’s robust data lets managers set fuel efficiency targets and monitor results over time. By analyzing trends and sharing feedback, teams stay motivated to improve. This data-driven approach fosters smarter decisions and a culture of continuous progress.

Moore’s strategies show that Haul Track is more than a data tool. It is a  game-changer for cost-conscious, eco-aware operations. With these seven tactics, site leaders and operators can transform insights into action, driving down costs and emissions while keeping their sites running at peak performance.

In 2024, the UAE exported 350,000 tonnes of aluminium to the United States

Manufacturing

A report by Betterhomes suggests that the base 10% tariffs on the UAE levied by the Trump administration are unlikely to affect UAE industries 

While the 25% tariffs imposed by the US on these key materials have created global uncertainty, Dubai’s diversified economy, robust trade infrastructure, and status as a re-export hub significantly cushion it from potential negative impacts.

In 2024, the UAE exported 350,000 tonnes of aluminium to the United States, making it the second-largest aluminium supplier to the American market. However, this relationship is unlikely to be substantially undermined by the tariffs. Unlike Canada and Mexico, the UAE has not been exempted from duties. Yet, the ongoing political engagement between the US and Gulf states signals room for bilateral negotiations, especially as the US looks to reduce dependence on Canadian imports.

Strategically, this opens a potential opportunity for the UAE to expand its aluminium exports to the US. Should a bilateral trade deal materialise, it could not only secure preferential access for Emirati aluminium but also strengthen the UAE’s role in global metal supply chains, particularly in sectors like aerospace, automotive, and defence.

Besides, the UAE’s domestic aluminium industry remains strong and well-positioned. With the US announcing a US$1.4tr investment in its own aluminium smelting capacity, future demand could shift more towards domestic consumption, but the high-quality aluminium produced in the UAE will likely remain competitive.

On the steel front, the US tariffs may trigger cost increases in international markets, but Dubai’s construction sector seems to be protected for now. As the UAE is not directly subject to reciprocal import duties on construction materials, price volatility will more likely be driven by currency fluctuations and shipping costs rather than trade restrictions. Moreover, Dubai’s construction pipeline remains vigorous, with more than 3,500 real estate and infrastructure projects underway.

A diversified economy

Dubai’s ongoing expansion in logistics and infrastructure, backed by a substantial government budget allocation (around AED 2.6 billion for transportation and logistics this year) supports sustained activity in the construction sector. 

The city’s construction boom is not solely reliant on imported steel and aluminium from the US, as it sources materials from a diversified group of partners across Asia, Europe, and the broader MENA region. This geographical diversification further insulates Dubai from direct supply shocks related to US trade policies.

Another crucial factor is Dubai’s emergence as a global trade and transshipment hub. Free zones like Jebel Ali provide platforms for rerouting goods to avoid tariffs, enabling companies to adapt to shifting trade dynamics. This resilience reinforces Dubai’s attractiveness to investors and manufacturers seeking stability amidst geopolitical unpredictability.

Real estate continues to thrive. Despite macroeconomic pressures, April 2025 alone recorded AED 46 billion in real estate transactions, reflecting a 23% month-on-month surge. 

Betterhomes reports that interest from US and Chinese investors rose sharply following the implementation of tariffs, with website traffic from these regions jumping by 60%. This renewed interest highlights how instability in one part of the world can enhance Dubai’s appeal as a stable, strategically located destination for capital investment.

While non-oil GDP in the UAE may slow down due to global trade turbulence, government policies aimed at diversification and innovation are already mitigating such risks. The Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the aim to double foreign direct investment to US$65bn by 2031 across sectors such as logistics, finance, and renewable energy show the country’s economic resilience.

DP World unveils integrated logistics solution to help OEMs expand efficiently in sub-Saharan Africa’s auto market. (Image source: DP World)

Logistics

DP World has introduced a comprehensive logistics and market-entry solution designed to overcome the longstanding challenges faced by automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) aiming to expand in sub-Saharan Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa is set to become one of the fastest-growing automotive markets globally, with vehicle demand forecasted to rise by 28.5% by 2030. This growth is fueled by increasing incomes, urbanisation, and booming intra-African trade. However, despite the region representing about 18% of the world’s population, it accounts for only around 1% of global vehicle sales. Global OEMs have struggled to grow in the region due to unreliable logistics infrastructure, complex regulations, and inconsistent parts distribution.

DP World’s new turnkey offering marks its first automotive hybrid model in sub-Saharan Africa, combining contract logistics with customised market-entry and expansion services through a single integrated platform. This service provides nationwide delivery to most dealerships within 24 to 48 hours, a digital dealer portal featuring SKU-level inventory visibility, real-time tracking, automated ordering, and integrated payments.

Market entry success 

The solution was successfully tested with Foton Motor, a prominent Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer. By utilising DP World’s end-to-end support platform, Foton swiftly launched aftermarket operations for heavy commercial vehicles in South Africa, encompassing warehousing, nationwide distribution, regulatory compliance, and digital dealer enablement. This fast market entry gave Foton South Africa a competitive edge with an integrated service network, helping to build early customer trust and engagement.

Fu Jun, president of Foton International at Foton Motor Group, added, “Growing our presence in South Africa is a priority for Foton, and our work with DP World has played an important role in making that possible. Their support with unlocking market and contract logistics services has helped make our aftermarket operations efficient and straightforward, allowing us to concentrate on serving our customers and building our business.”

The hybrid model also enables OEMs to gain a first-mover advantage in a market where aftermarket parts are often dominated by informal suppliers and grey imports. By providing a dependable service network, OEMs like Foton can establish trust, secure long-term customer loyalty, and reduce counterfeit parts risks, all while benefiting from a single point of contact and accountability within the region.

“The automotive industry’s outlook for Africa is changing fast. The question is no longer whether to enter the market, but how to do it effectively. With extensive infrastructure across the region, and deep expertise in complex logistics and market solutions, DP World is ideally placed to support international automakers looking to enter or expand into one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets,” stated Mark Rylance, chief operating officer for Logistics at DP World Sub-Saharan Africa.

DP World plans to develop further innovative solutions to assist more OEMs entering sub-Saharan African markets in the coming years as it scales its services to meet the rising demand for commercial and passenger vehicles across the region.

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