The United Arab Emirates has announced a major investment of USD 1 billion to support the development of UAE Yemen Energy Investment, following directives from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This significant commitment aims to transform Yemen’s electricity infrastructure and deliver clean, reliable, and sustainable energy to millions of homes and facilities.
Strategic Investment for Sustainable Growth
The investment will be carried out by Global South Utilities (GSU) in Abu Dhabi and will focus on:
- Solar energy projects
- Wind energy projects
- Distribution network upgrades
- Storage capacity improvements
This initiative is part of the UAE Yemen Energy Investment broader efforts to promote sustainable development in Yemen and support a dignified life for its people after years of conflict and infrastructure decline.
Mohamed Hamad Al Zaabi, UAE Yemen Energy Investment Ambassador to Yemen, announced the investment at the Yemen National Energy Conference (YFNEC 2025). The event included international stakeholders such as the United Nations, highlighting a global commitment to rebuilding Yemen’s energy sector.
Impact on Yemen’s Energy Landscape
Ali Alshimmari, Managing Director and CEO of GSU, emphasized that the investment will provide clean energy to 2–3 million homes. Key projects include:
- Shabwa Solar Plant – Ready to supply electricity to 330,000 homes
- Aden Solar Plant – Expected to serve 687,000 homes by 2026
Together, these projects will deliver stable, clean electricity to over one million homes and facilities—marking the largest transformation in Yemen’s energy sector to date.
Additional plans include:
- Further solar expansion
- Increased storage capacity
- Upgraded distribution networks
These improvements are expected to reduce hundreds of thousands of tonnes of emissions annually and decrease Yemen’s reliance on expensive fuel imports.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Regional Stability
Salem bin Braik, Yemen’s Prime Minister, praised the UAE Yemen Energy Investment longstanding support and its role in advancing Yemen’s energy sector. The investment strengthens bilateral relations and supports Yemen’s shift toward renewable energy—an essential step for long-term economic resilience and environmental sustainability.
The initiative also promotes:
- Public-private partnerships
- Development of local capabilities
- Increased private-sector participation
These elements create a sustainable foundation for economic growth, reduced production costs, and improved stability in essential services.
A Milestone for Yemen’s Recovery
The UAE’s USD 1 billion investment marks a historic milestone in Yemen’s energy transformation. By focusing on renewable energy adoption, grid modernization, and low-carbon infrastructure, the initiative lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Through this commitment, the UAE advances:
- Humanitarian goals
- Developmental progress
- Regional stability
- Leadership in sustainable energy initiatives
As Yemen rebuilds after years of devastation, this investment offers hope, stability, and a long-term path toward sustainable growth.
