Renewable Energy in the United Arab Emirates: Status and Potential

The United Arab Emirates energy industry has changed dramatically over the last decade. The country is the first in the region to move forward towards energy diversification and deliver clean and affordable energy. This study aims to review the current renewable energy options available in the UAE, assess the current status, and identify future potential. It also discusses the main renewable energy strategies and summarizes the renewable energy projects in the UAE. A comprehensive literature review was conducted. It was found that solar energy has the most significant potential, and a hybrid renewable energy system that combines solar, wind, and waste-to-energy could be the best combination to be implemented in the UAE. These findings are consistent with the current UAE's renewable energy strategies and targets that aim to conserve natural resources and to diversify the energy mix towards alternative sources. The findings will help decision-makers to formulate a set of recommendations to start the transition toward renewable energy.