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SAF MENA Forum 2026
April 2, 2026
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​As a pivotal part of Connecting Hydrogen MENA 2026 (#CHM2026), the SAF MENA Forum 2026 serves as the region’s premier platform dedicated to advancing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and decarbonizing the aviation industry. With global air travel demand rising and net-zero commitments tightening, the forum brings together airlines, fuel producers, policymakers, and investors to drive scalable SAF solutions and solidify MENA’s role as a leader in clean aviation.
The push to decarbonize aviation is gaining momentum worldwide. As airlines step up their net-zero commitments, the Middle East is becoming a key hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and eFuel production. With world-class aviation infrastructure, abundant renewable energy, and strong government support, the region is well-positioned to lead in clean aviation technologies.
The UAE's General Policy for Sustainable Aviation Fuel aims to decarbonize the sector while establishing the country as a regional SAF hub. Key objectives include:
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Developing local SAF production capacity to reach 700 million liters annually
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Supplying 1% of fuel to UAE airlines with locally produced SAF by 2031 (voluntary target)
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Advancing aviation technology and innovation through a national SAF regulatory framework
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Supporting long-term SAF production by exploring economic policies and boosting local expertise​
Video Message Remarks by Maryam Al Balooshi, Chief Environment Lead, UAE General Civil Aviation Authority
The detailed program will be released soon...
Morning Session: Exploring Clean Fuels in the MENA Region
08:00 - 09:00
60 mins
Registration and Networking Coffee
09:00 - 09:15
15 mins
[Keynote Address] The Future of Clean Fuels in MENA
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Insights on the regional vision and strategic importance of clean fuels.
09:15 - 09:30
15 mins
[Keynote Address] UAE leading the Way for Aviation Energy Transition
09:30 - 10:20
50 mins
[SAF Panel] Market Opportunities and Challenges for SAF in MENA
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Discussing regional policies, regulations, and incentives for clean fuel adoption.
Coffee Break & Networking
10:50 - 11:40
50 mins
[Ammonia Panel] Ammonia as a Sustainable Energy Carrier
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Discussing the role of ammonia in energy transition, production challenges, and market adoption.
11:40 - 12:00
20 mins
[Keynote] Reserved for Silver Sponsor
Lunch & networking break
Afternoon Session: Advancing Clean Fuels in Practice
14:00 - 15:20
80 mins
Youth in Energy Transition Special Session
As part of CHM2025, the “Youth in Energy Transition Special Session” offers a dynamic platform to amplify and prioritize the voices of young professionals in shaping the energy transition across the MENA region. This session features outstanding young leaders from MENA’s major energy utilities, government organizations, and academia, driving structural change by integrating fresh ideas and bold visions into the energy sector.
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Panel Discussion “Next-Gen Vision: Transforming the Future of Low Carbon Energy Transition in MENA”
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Establishment of MENA Youth Energy Transition Network
15:20 - 15:40
20 mins
[Keynote Address] Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks to Support Decarbonization in Maritime Transport
15:40 - 16:30
50 mins
[Panel] Enabling Infrastructure and Logistics for Clean Fuels Supply Chain (SAF, Methanol, Ammonia, etc.)
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Exploring investment strategies, financial models, and risk management for clean fuels.​
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Building the Backbone: Critical Infrastructure Needs for Clean Fuel Deployment
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Transport and Storage Solutions for SAF, Methanol, and Ammonia
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​Port Readiness: Adapting Maritime Hubs for Clean Fuel Logistics