Event News

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has proudly celebrated the inaugural graduation of its Diploma in Nuclear Technology (DNT) programme.

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has proudly celebrated the inaugural graduation of its Diploma in Nuclear Technology (DNT) programme, marking a foundational milestone in the development of the United Arab Emirates’ national nuclear workforce.

This landmark event, held in Abu Dhabi on the 18th of June 2026, witnessed twenty dedicated Emirati professionals successfully complete the rigorous requirements of the diploma.These new graduates are now prepared to transition seamlessly into vital operational support roles at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in the clean energy sector.

The graduation ceremony was a distinguished affair hosted in the capital Abu Dhabi. It was attended by His Excellency Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company, alongside senior management teams from various ENEC subsidiaries. The event served to formally recognise the extraordinary achievements of this first cohort, highlighting their impending contributions to the broader UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme.

The Diploma in Nuclear Technology is structured as a twenty-four-month vocational training programme. It was designed to provide robust initial training for high-performing UAE National high school graduates pursuing long-term careers within the civil nuclear sector. The diploma is accredited by the UAE's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, underscoring its academic excellence and rigorous standards.

Delivery of the curriculum is divided across ENEC’s corporate headquarters and the operational environment of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. The coursework is led by highly qualified, certified Emirati instructors from ENEC, working in close collaboration with international experts. Together, they provide a balanced curriculum featuring theoretical education and practical, hands-on training. Trainees are thoroughly equipped with fundamental knowledge of applied sciences and complex engineering, alongside specific insights into nuclear plant systems, technical operations, and critical safety processes.

Upon completing this demanding twenty-four-month programme, the twenty graduates will step directly into professional roles as local operators and dedicated maintenance technicians. Stationed at the Barakah Plant, located in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, these technicians will form the backbone of daily operations. Their skills will directly support the safe, reliable, and highly efficient delivery of clean electricity to the national grid.

Speaking at the ceremony to commemorate this vital step in national workforce development, H.E. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of ENEC, stated: “today’s graduation marks an important milestone in our continued efforts to develop a sustainable pipeline of homegrown UAE national talent to support the long-term success of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program. As we enter the next phase of operational excellence at Barakah, investing in the development of skilled Emirati professionals remains a strategic priority. This program reflects our commitment to building national capability, equipping the next generation of our young, talented Emiratis with the expertise required to support safe, reliable and efficient nuclear operations for the next 60 years and beyond. We are proud of the achievements of this first cohort and look forward to seeing them flourish in their nuclear energy careers and contribute to the continued success of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant and the wider UAE energy sector.”

Initiated in 2024, the Diploma in Nuclear Technology stands as the premier initiative within ENEC’s suite of capacity-building programmes. Operating as a recognised national vocational qualification, the diploma plays a key role in developing meticulous UAE nuclear professionals. This foresight ensures the long-term sustainability, safety, and operational excellence of the UAE Nuclear Energy Programme. ENEC has confirmed that further cohorts will be trained over the coming decades. This investment reflects an unwavering commitment to empowering young UAE Nationals, giving them the tools required to become integral components of this internationally expanding sector.

Since its inception, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company has placed the development of local Emirati talent at the heart of its strategic mission. The organisation recognises that a sustainable civil nuclear programme is built upon the solid foundation of a highly skilled, locally sourced workforce. Through six dedicated talent pipeline programmes, ENEC has empowered a new generation of Emiratis to lead this strategically important industry. To date, more than 2,000 UAE Nationals have played an instrumental role in the successful development and operation of the Barakah Plant.

The Egypt Energy Show took place from 30 March-1 April 2026. (Image source: PRNewswire)

The Egypt Energy Show 2026 opened in Cairo on 30 March with a strong call for international cooperation, as global leaders gathered to address mounting challenges facing the energy sector.

In a keynote message, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi urged governments and industry stakeholders to work together in response to ongoing geopolitical instability and supply disruptions.

"The International Energy Agency has indicated that this may be one of the most severe energy crises in modern history - indeed, possibly one of the most significant crises the modern world has faced. This is not a single shock, but a double shock: a supply shock and a price shock. We are facing a significant reduction in supply - estimated at around 20-25%. Given the grave consequences of continued conflict […] it is our collective responsibility to work toward ending such crises, as cooperation is the key to overcoming the current challenges facing the energy sector."

The theme of collaboration was echoed by global policymakers and energy leaders attending the opening ceremony. Nikos Christodoulides, President of Cyprus, highlighted the increasing importance of regional partnerships in maintaining energy stability.

"A regional crisis continues to threaten stability and reshape the global energy landscape. It has become abundantly clear that energy security is no longer merely an economic concern - it is fundamentally a political imperative, intrinsically linked to regional and international stability. In this context, we must strengthen our readiness to respond to disruptions in energy flows and adapt effectively to the rapidly evolving global reality."

Addressing global concerns

Representatives from Europe also stressed the urgency of balancing energy security with long-term sustainability goals. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director General of Energy, European Commission, underlined the need for cross-border collaboration.

"No one can fully capture the scale of uncertainty and instability that the Middle East has witnessed. This situation has underscored the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy and to build sustainable domestic energy systems that ensure access to clean and reliable energy. For Europe, Egypt is a valued partner in this effort, and we must seize this opportunity not only to address current challenges but also to build a shared future defined by stability, resilience, sustainability, transparency, and integrity."

Regional dynamics were also addressed by Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, who emphasised the Gulf’s stabilising role.

"Against the backdrop of Iranian aggression toward GCC states and the consequent threat to energy security in this vital region, this conference is taking place at a pivotal moment. The GCC countries play a critical role in stabilising international markets through prudent production policies and effective coordination that maintain a delicate balance between supply and demand and shield the global economy from severe volatility."

Meanwhile, the country's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, stressed the importance of partnerships.

"This year's conference carries exceptional significance, convening at a critical juncture marked by escalating challenges and shifts within our region. In this context, effective partnerships are no longer an option, but an absolute necessity. Collective action has become the cornerstone for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of global supply chains."

The event also saw Egypt and Cyprus sign agreements to process Cypriot gas through Egyptian facilities, reinforcing regional cooperation. With more than 50,000 attendees, 500 exhibitors and over 350 speakers, the exhibition highlights innovation, including a new AI-focused hub aimed at advancing energy solutions.

Middle East Energy has been rescheduled from 7-9 April to 1-3 September 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, organisers have confirmed via an official statement.

The new dates have also been updated on the Middle East Energy official website. 

The 50th edition is now expected to welcome nearly 50,000 attendees from 178 countries, with the revised dates said to provide greater flexibility for travel, logistics and full-scale solution showcases across the power value chain.

While no reason has been formally stated for the change, the move comes amid ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East.

The statement added, "Hosting this landmark event in September 2026 will provide additional space at DWTC and an extended period for all participants to organise logistics and travel and prepare product, machinery and technology showcases, to maximise value for everyone."

Organisers said the team is committed to supporting participants and addressing any queries ahead of the September gathering.

Mark Ring, Group Director – Energy & Power, Informa, said, "This event has always been about bringing the global energy and power community together to share ideas, showcase innovation and drive progress. By hosting the 2026 edition in September, we are ensuring that exhibitors and attendees have the opportunity to make the most of this important event. We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience for everyone and look forward to welcoming the energy sector to Dubai this September.”

Informa has announced the completion of preparations for the 50th edition of Middle East Energy Dubai 2026, scheduled to take place from 7-9 April 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

The exhibition is the region's leading platform for the energy sector, enabling organisations to compare solutions, engage directly with suppliers, and accelerate project progress. The event attracts exhibitors from around the world, alongside broad participation from senior officials and decision-makers.

The exhibition also aims to support entities and institutions navigating current market dynamics, including delivery pressures, advanced technologies, and renewable energy priorities. It empowers participants to select partners, evaluate new products, and fast-track commercial discussions.

Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Electricity, Water and Future Energy Sector at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, affirmed that the ministry's patronage of the 50th edition reflects the UAE's commitment to supporting specialised international platforms that enhance energy system integration and reinforce the country's position as a global hub for dialogue and cooperation in the energy sector.

He noted that the exhibition represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen partnerships and showcase the latest technologies and solutions supporting the energy sector's transformation, in line with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. It further contributes to enhancing energy security and sustainability while supporting the competitiveness of the national economy.

"Middle East Energy brings buyers and sellers together, turning interest into actual demand," said Mark Ring, group director of Energy at Informa. He added that this edition focuses on outcomes through targeted business matchmaking, meaningful networking, product and service comparison, and delivering the insights and collaboration needed to drive trade today and accelerate the energy transition.

Middle East Energy Dubai 2026 will feature a comprehensive programme of specialised panel discussions, with the participation of more than 150 speakers from industry leaders and international experts. They will provide practical insights on energy transition, energy security, technological innovation, and sustainability, equipping decision-makers with the knowledge needed to conclude deals.

The exhibition further strengthens its position as a high-impact industrial marketplace. Its previous edition recorded commercial participation valued at approximately US$4.05bn, with 1,600 exhibitors and around 30,000 visitors and energy professionals. More than 1,200 senior officials and decision-makers attended, reflecting its global reach and influence.

To find out more and register, visit: https://link.informa.com/xsl