Abu Dhabi DoE and Evolve Fuels sign e-SAF exploration agreement

The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE) and Evolve Fuels AG, a Smartenergy Group company, have signed a strategic collaboration agreement at ADIPEC 2026 to explore investment opportunities and the potential for producing synthetic sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement covers three areas of cooperation: connecting potential Abu Dhabi investors and partners with Evolve Fuels’ international project pipeline, supporting the development of policy and regulatory frameworks for e-SAF, and exploring a strategy and roadmap for e-SAF production in the Emirate.

The collaboration will examine the technical and commercial feasibility of producing e-SAF in Abu Dhabi, drawing on the Emirate’s renewable energy, hydrogen and carbon capture resources. This will include assessing infrastructure and technology requirements, potential industry partners and future customers, alongside opportunities for investment, knowledge and technology transfer and the development of local capabilities. A joint steering committee will be established to oversee the assessment of potential initiatives and projects.

e-SAF is a type of aviation fuel that can be made using renewable electricity, hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide. New fuel requirements in Europe and the UK are expected to increase demand for these fuels over the coming years, creating opportunities for investment and the development of new production capabilities.

The next phase of cooperation will focus on identifying priority opportunities and assessing the technical, commercial and regulatory requirements for potential projects. Any future investments or production facilities would be subject to further evaluation and separate agreements.