ADIPEC 2026 concluded in Abu Dhabi with more than 50,000 deals valued at US$67 billion, a record 240,000 attendees from 170 countries, and major announcements in energy investment, artificial intelligence and global energy security.
ABU DHABI: ADIPEC 2026 concluded on November 5 with more than 50,000 deals worth an estimated US$67 billion recorded over four days, marking a 26.4% increase compared with 2025, according to organisers.
The record-breaking energy event welcomed 240,000 attendees from 170 countries, bringing together government leaders, energy executives, investors and technology companies to strengthen global energy security and accelerate investment.
Held under the patronage of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and hosted by ADNOC, the exhibition reinforced Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global energy hub.
Record participation highlights growing global energy investment
The largest edition of ADIPEC featured 2,260 exhibiting companies across 16 halls, 30 country pavilions and four specialised industry zones.
China, the United States and Italy led international exhibitor participation, while Asia recorded its strongest representation, with 353 companies, a 12% annual increase.
Six Asian country pavilions represented China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea, reflecting the region’s growing importance in global energy demand and investment.
More than 40 government ministers and policymakers attended, alongside over 1,800 speakers participating in 380 conference sessions.
Major ADNOC partnerships accelerate energy innovation
One of the major announcements at ADIPEC 2026 was ADNOC’s landmark partnership with OpenAI and G42 to integrate advanced artificial intelligence into energy operations.
The collaboration aims to improve operational efficiency, strengthen decision-making and support energy security through AI-powered technology.
Another significant agreement saw XRG announce a US$1.5 billion deal to acquire Shell’s stake in Australia’s North West Shelf LNG project, expanding its international natural gas portfolio.
Meanwhile, TA’ZIZ secured AED5.1 billion in financing for its Terminal and Ammonia projects in Ruwais, supporting Abu Dhabi’s industrial expansion.
The exhibition’s AI Zone also expanded by 20%, featuring global technology companies including Microsoft, NVIDIA, IBM, Huawei, Honeywell and Siemens.
UAE calls for stronger global energy resilience
Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, called for a fundamental rethink of how energy is built, protected and delivered.
He outlined five priorities, including expanding accessible energy supplies, securing trade routes, improving operational intelligence, strengthening investment frameworks and developing skilled talent.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman also highlighted the growing potential of artificial intelligence to address complex energy challenges.
Impact to expect
The record deal activity at ADIPEC 2026 is expected to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as an international energy investment hub. New partnerships could accelerate infrastructure development, expand AI adoption, attract global capital and support long-term energy security while creating opportunities for UAE businesses.
The event will return to Abu Dhabi from November 1 to 4, 2027.
