Saudi Arabia strengthens its position as a global leader in the energy transition

Vasyl Zhygalo

Saudi Arabia is once again asserting itself as a key player in the global energy transition. On December 8–9, 2025, the Kingdom will host the first-ever Hydrogen Arabia Summit & Exhibition at the Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC — a major international event dedicated to hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

Organized by RX, the global trade show leader and creator of the World Hydrogen Summit, this gathering will bring together government officials, energy executives, investors, and innovators from around the world. The goal is clear: to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for the hydrogen economy and clean energy.

Over two days, the summit will feature high-level conferences and a cutting-edge technology exhibition. Discussions will focus on how hydrogen and carbon capture can accelerate the Kingdom’s ambitions under Vision 2030 and its Net Zero 2060 target. The event will also highlight the Circular Carbon Economy framework — first introduced by Saudi Arabia during its G20 presidency in 2020 — which promotes an integrated approach to managing emissions and ensuring energy stability.

With more than SAR 1 trillion (approximately USD 270 billion) invested in the energy sector — including SAR 880 billion (USD 235 billion) dedicated to renewable energy — the country is making massive commitments to the green transition. Landmark projects such as NEOM’s green hydrogen complex and the USD 10 billion pledged by the Public Investment Fund to support hydrogen-related initiatives demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s determination to become a leading producer and exporter of clean energy.

“Hydrogen Arabia marks a major milestone for RX as we expand our global energy portfolio to Saudi Arabia, one of the most dynamic markets for energy transformation,” said Vasyl Zhygalo, Managing Director for the Middle East and Emerging Markets at RX. “This summit will provide a vital platform for regional and international stakeholders to collaborate on hydrogen and carbon capture solutions. It will also unlock new investment and innovation opportunities, solidifying the Kingdom’s role as a hub for sustainable energy and a key partner in the global hydrogen trade.”

Among the confirmed speakers are representatives from leading institutions and companies, including the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), ENOWA-NEOM, Air Liquide, Hy24, Aramco Ventures, and Securing Energy for Europe GmbH (SEFE). Together, they will address the sector’s most pressing issues — strategic investment, international trade, certification frameworks, and the decarbonization of heavy industries.

The summit aims to be both a forum for thought and a catalyst for action. Alongside the discussions, a large-scale exhibition will showcase breakthrough technologies and live demonstrations, offering participants a first-hand look at the innovations shaping the global hydrogen economy. This integrated approach — combining strategic dialogue with practical applications — seeks to establish Riyadh as a driving force in the energy future.

Caroline Haïat