Jamal Al-Loughani, Secretary-General of the Arab Energy Organization (AEO) - formerly OAPEC, revealed that nine Arab nations have set ambitious targets to produce 8 million tons of low-carbon hydrogen annually by 2030, with plans to scale up to 27.5 million tons by 2040 as global hydrogen markets mature.

Key Highlights:

• 2030 Target: 8 million tons/year (green and blue hydrogen)

• 2040 Vision: 27.5 million tons/year (contingent on market maturity)

• Participating Nations: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Kuwait, Qatar, and Jordan

Strategic Developments:

1. UN Collaboration:

   • The UN Gas Experts Committee (Geneva) endorsed a joint AEO-Russia initiative to study hydrogen transportation and storage (liquid/gas phases).

   • Findings will be presented in March 2026 to advance global hydrogen economy frameworks.

2. Regional Progress:

   • 127 hydrogen projects announced in Arab countries as of 2024 (up from 34 in 2021).

   • Projects span production, export pipelines (e.g., North Africa to Europe), and maritime/land transport applications.

   • Six Arab nations have finalized national hydrogen strategies; others are drafting roadmaps.

3. Investment Focus:

   • Major contracts awarded for mega-projects (e.g., Saudi NEOM, UAE’s Al Dhafra).

   • Prioritizing partnerships with Europe/Asia to meet growing demand.

Quotes from Al-Loughani (to KUNA):

• "Arab states are transitioning from global energy suppliers to decarbonization leaders. Hydrogen is central to this vision."

• "Our 2040 target isn’t aspirational—it’s backed by active investments, policies, and international alliances."

Global Context:

• AEO has been a member of the UN Gas Experts Committee since 2016, advocating for Arab energy interests.

• Arab hydrogen could cover 20% of EU’s REPowerEU import needs by 2030.