As the world embarks on an energy transition journey, the upcoming UN climate change conference in the UAE, or COP28, is expected to deliver transformational climate outcomes for the Middle East and North Africa region and the entire world, according to a UAE minister.

Speaking at the MENA Climate Week in Riyadh on Oct. 8, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Al-Jaber said that the UN climate summit is crucial for the world.

“A critical pillar of the COP28 agenda is focused on people, lives, and livelihoods. We must make the fund for the loss and damage that was promised in Sharm El-Sheikh a reality in Dubai,” he said.

Al-Jaber added: “Let us rise above the noise. Climate change does not recognize political divisions or national boundaries. It affects everyone, everywhere. Let us respect the signs.”

He further noted that the MENA region has sufficient resources and technologies to spearhead the energy transition. 

“This region (MENA) has the resources, the leadership and the experience to create a climate-positive future of new industries,” Al-Jaber said.

He said the adaptation must be “front and center” of the climate agenda as the UAE will host the COP28 this winter. 

“We live in a region of extreme heat, water scarcity and food insecurity. We are also suffering harsh climate impacts, from droughts to the devastating floods of Derna,” Al-Jaber said. 

The minister added: “To deliver for our region, we must put adaptation front and center of the climate agenda.” 

Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said that the Kingdom is pleased to host the second edition of the MENA Climate Week. 

“MENA Climate Week will explore advancing climate action and inclusive approaches, including the Circular Carbon Economy approach, which promotes the use of all available technologies, forms of energy and mitigation opportunities that would contribute to achieving climate goals,” said Prince Abdulaziz. 

For his part, Simon Stiell, executive secretary of UN Climate Change, said that the event will seek to find solutions for resolving climate-related issues as the world aims to reach the goals set in the Paris Agreement. 

“The MENA region is at a crossroads, facing not only the devastating impacts of climate change but also the challenge of transitioning their economies to ensure prosperity in a 1.5 degrees Celsius aligned world,” said Stiell.

He added: “MENA Climate Week provides a platform to spotlight regional solutions and innovations, paving the way for strengthened collaboration across borders, sectors and disciplines.”