Logo of Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project
Letter on hydrogen: Saudi lights torch as MENA trailblazes
NEOM helps encourage ambitious hydrogen strategies as region looks to decarbonise various sectors to help meet economic diversification targets
The scene is set and excitement permeates through the energy transition landscape. Major developments such as Saudi Arabia’s flagship 2.2GW green hydrogen project in NEOM, the first gigawatt-scale green hydrogen project to receive FID and begin construction, demonstrate how countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are vying to become global leaders in hydrogen development. Ambitious national hydrogen strategies have been announced by several countries in the region, driven by their wish to meet their economic diversification targets. This is aided by the abundance of renewable energy resources with the potential to power the production process. MENA has emerged as a leader in tod
Also in this section
6 November 2025
After years of pursuing ideologically driven climate leadership, Western powers are now stepping back under mounting political pressure and rising populist opposition—prompting concern essential climate action could be sidelined
5 November 2025
Policymakers launch €2.9b package aimed at driving investment to meet its aviation and maritime sustainable fuel targets
5 November 2025
German technology company collaborates with Sharjah National Oil Corporation and Decahydron on new initiative in northern emirate of Sharjah
29 October 2025
Europe urgently needs a dose of pragmatism to unlock its clean hydrogen potential, Hydrogen Council CEO Ivana Jemelkova tells Hydrogen Economist
