# Decarbonizing the emirates: A roadmap to net-zero emissions by 2050 in the UAE

## TL;DR

The paper outlines a pathway for the UAE to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, focusing on sustainable energy practices in key sectors.

## Contribution

The study provides a novel roadmap for energy-exporting countries like the UAE to transition to carbon neutrality.

## Key findings

- Full adoption of road electric vehicles by 2050 could save £25 billion in additional costs.
- Decarbonization costs are estimated to be 9.4% higher than business-as-usual, or about 1.3% of UAE’s annual GVA.

## Abstract

Recognized as a major global energy exporter, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) faces the unique challenge of transitioning to more environmentally sustainable practices while maintaining its pivotal role in global energy supply. Despite an abundance of literature focusing on the transition of net-importer countries toward carbon neutrality, limited attention has been given to the socially and economically viable pathways of energy net-exporter countries. This study examines the UAE’s transition toward carbon neutrality across the power, industrial, and transport sectors. It highlights variations in technology deployment and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing domestic biomass and investing in technologies like direct air capture (DAC). The findings highlight the broader significance of collaborative efforts to advance sustainable energy practices not only in the UAE but also globally.

•Imported biomass enables BECCS; domestic biomass requires DAC and +25 GW•Electrified LNG and industrial CCS scale by 2035•Full road EV adoption by 2050 avoids £25bn in additional costs•Decarbonization costs +9.4% vs. BAU; ∼1.3% of UAE’s annual GVA

Imported biomass enables BECCS; domestic biomass requires DAC and +25 GW

Electrified LNG and industrial CCS scale by 2035

Full road EV adoption by 2050 avoids £25bn in additional costs

Decarbonization costs +9.4% vs. BAU; ∼1.3% of UAE’s annual GVA

Energy modeling; Energy policy; Energy resources; Energy sustainability; Energy systems