Vast desert landscapes in the region offer some of the world’s most cost-effective solar potential, turning underutilised land into high-value energy real estate and accelerating renewable capacity. Projects such as Xlinks, alongside expanded GCC interconnection and potential links to Europe, illustrate how long-distance transmission can monetise surplus renewable generation while enhancing energy security. But unlocking this value at scale depends on robust transmission infrastructure capable of moving power from resource-rich areas to demand centres, both domestically and internationally. Streamlined government approvals, coordinated regional frameworks and the development of cross-border grid interconnectors are becoming defining areas for the region’s next phase of growth. How can the GCC align to turn deserts into engines of export revenue, grid resilience and long-term economic diversification?

The Middle East is seeking to leverage its renewable resources and strategic location to become a leader in green hydrogen production and trade. But turning ambition into durable advantage will require more than resources. Costs remain high, demand is uncertain and the infrastructure required for large-scale hydrogen production, transport and export is capital-intensive and complex. In a region with scarce spare water, questions around resource use and environmental integrity are also central. As global standards, subsidies and trade frameworks evolve the region faces strategic choices: how quickly to scale, which markets to prioritise and how to ensure projects are viable.

More than 2bn tonnes of municipal solid waste are generated annually worldwide. As countries confront rising waste volumes and increasing electricity demand many are looking to waste-to-energy as a solution. It is also viewed as an important component of a broader circular economy and net-zero strategies. Modern waste-to-energy plants offer a dual solution: they reduce landfill use and methane emissions while providing reliable power to the grid. But their successful deployment depends on robust regulation, secure waste supply chains and reliable long-term financing structures. What is required to ensure projects are economically viable and environmentally credible?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly embedded in daily operations across the private and public sectors. While it has the potential to optimise energy systems, reduce emissions and strengthen climate resilience, scaling AI brings significant commercial and sustainability implications, particularly around energy consumption, water use, infrastructure costs and exposure to regulatory and investor scrutiny. The rapid expansion of data centres and demand for power and critical minerals are increasing pressure on companies to align AI growth with net-zero targets and broader environmental commitments. How can companies deploy AI in ways that enhance both profitability and environmental performance?

The adoption of circular practices, particularly in plastics recycling, waste management and sustainable product design, is gaining momentum across the Middle East. Yet circularity is not simply an environmental ambition. It requires the redesign of supply chains, procurement models and industrial systems. Delivering circular outcomes at scale depends on reliable feedstock streams, reverse logistics networks, transparent material tracking and collaboration across value chains—from producers and retailers to waste operators and recyclers. In many sectors, fragmented supply chains, limited secondary material markets and inconsistent standards remain significant barriers. How can businesses implement circular supply chains that have both environmental benefits and economic value?

Water scarcity in the Middle East is intensifying due to climate change, population growth and overuse. Desalination currently accounts for 70% of Saudi Arabia’s water supply and contributes to 55% of global brine production in conjunction with the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar. While sustainable desalination and large-scale water reuse are indispensable for water security in arid regions, their long-term viability depends on integration with renewable energy and circular water systems as well as robust environmental safeguards. Innovation in technology, finance and data can help optimise resource use and strengthen resilience in the sector. This panel explores how these solutions can be scaled. How can regional co-operation support better management of shared water resources and data based decision-making? What innovation could make desalination more sustainable and cost-competitive at scale?