The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE) and Evolve Fuels, a Smartenergy Group company, have signed a strategic collaboration agreement at ADIPEC 2026 to explore investment opportunities and the potential production of synthetic sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) in the Emirate.

The agreement focuses on three key areas: connecting Abu Dhabi investors and partners with Evolve Fuels’ international project pipeline, supporting the development of e-SAF policy and regulatory frameworks, and developing a strategy and roadmap for potential local production.

The collaboration will assess the technical and commercial feasibility of e-SAF production, drawing on Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy, hydrogen and carbon capture resources.

It will also examine infrastructure and technology requirements, potential industry partners and customers, investment opportunities, technology transfer and local capability development.

A joint steering committee will oversee the assessment of potential initiatives and projects.

The agreement comes amid growing efforts by the aviation industry to reduce emissions and meet rising demand for sustainable fuels. e-SAF is produced using renewable electricity, hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide.

Emerging fuel requirements in Europe and the UK are expected to drive demand and create investment opportunities in the sector.

Abdulaziz Al Obaidli, Director-General of Regulatory Affairs at the DoE, said: “Sustainable aviation fuel has the potential to play an important role in the future of aviation. This agreement gives us an opportunity to assess how Abu Dhabi’s energy resources and industrial capabilities can support the development of this market, while creating opportunities for investment and technology partnerships. Our focus is on building the right regulatory and commercial foundations, so that any future projects are competitive, practical and able to deliver long-term value.”

Horst Mahmoudi, CEO and Executive Chairman of Smartenergy, said: “Evolve Fuels is an investment platform that, starting in Europe, aggregates and accelerates e-SAF projects at a time when the market needs scale and speed. Through this agreement with the Department of Energy, we are opening our project pipeline to Abu Dhabi investors and partners, while jointly evaluating the potential for e-SAF production in Abu Dhabi, building on the Emirate’s renewable energy, PtX and carbon capture resources.”

He added: “Our goal is to position Abu Dhabi as a dominant global player in a market that is set to grow rapidly, as e-SAF quotas, starting in Europe and the UK, take effect.”

The next phase will focus on identifying priority opportunities and assessing the technical, commercial and regulatory requirements for potential projects.

Any future investments or production facilities will remain subject to further evaluation and separate agreements, ensuring decisions are based on market demand, commercial viability and Abu Dhabi’s long-term industrial priorities. -TradeArabia News Service