On the occasion of World Creativity and Innovation Day, Secretary General of the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), Jamal Al-Loughani, emphasized that innovation has become a strategic imperative for achieving sustainable energy transformation, strengthening energy security, and balancing economic and environmental development goals.
In a press statement marking the April 21 observance, Al-Loughani highlighted that OAPEC’s updated vision places innovation, scientific research, and national capacity-building at the core of its agenda. He noted that the organization’s 15 strategic initiatives aim to foster a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable Arab energy system.
Al-Loughani pointed to advanced technologies already being adopted by OAPEC member states across the energy value chain—including artificial intelligence, digital twin systems, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). These innovations support predictive maintenance, emissions reduction, and the shift toward greener refining and petrochemical products, while also enabling the expansion of renewable energy and green hydrogen.
Highlighting leading examples, Al-Loughani praised Saudi Arabia’s oil-to-chemicals projects and carbon capture work in Jubail, as well as Egypt’s efforts to cut flare gas emissions, improve energy efficiency in petrochemical plants, and integrate solar energy into industrial operations. He also noted Libya’s use of solar energy to power remote production sites and its application of digital field management tools.
Additional innovation efforts in Algeria, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain include advancements in renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and the use of robotics and drones in the energy sector.
“These examples are just the beginning of a long-term transformation journey,” Al-Loughani said. “Innovation must remain at the heart of future energy policies and projects across the Arab region.”
