China drives green transition in the Middle East

In the vast Arabian desert, where oil reigns unchallenged, a new source of power is taking shape: solar panels shine in the relentless sun, wind turbines slice the skies, and electric cars ply newly paved roads. This is not a fantasy, but a rapidly expanding reality, driven by the alliance between China and the Middle East.

By 2024, China and the Middle East had consolidated dynamic green energy cooperation, aligning regional aspirations for economic diversification with Chinese expertise in renewable technologies. The partnership spans solar, hydrogen production and electric vehicles, reshaping the region’s “power dynamics.” A notable example is the solar plant in Al Dhafra, built by China Machinery Engineering Corporation, which generates 2.1 GW of energy, lighting 200,000 homes in the UAE and reducing carbon emissions by 2.4 million tons annually.

In addition to solar energy, Chinese electric cars are becoming a reality on the streets of the Middle East. In the United Arab Emirates, Chinese manufacturer NIO, in partnership with CYVN Holdings, launched NIO MENA, which will introduce vehicle models and a research center focused on artificial intelligence and autonomous driving technologies. Saudi Arabia is also betting on the future of electric vehicles, with investments of US$50 billion and the production of the first Saudi electric vehicles scheduled for 2025.

The partnership between China and the Middle East goes further, covering the production of green hydrogen, wind farms and renewable hybrid systems. The collaboration, exemplified by ACWA Power’s project in Saudi Arabia with Chinese researchers in Shanghai, promises to advance green hydrogen production and energy storage solutions. This alliance not only benefits countries in the region, but also establishes a model for South-South cooperation, where emerging economies lead the green transition with innovation and ambition, shaping a more sustainable future for the planet.