More than $10 billion in deals were facilitated at the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (Adipec) 2024, underscoring its significance in the energy sector.

This year Adipe celebrated 40 years of energy leadership, reinforcing its status as a pivotal global energy event.

Under the theme "Connecting Minds. Transforming Energy," from November 4-7, this year’s conference broke attendance records, attracting over 205,139 participants from 172 countries.

This iteration of ADIPEC marked the most successful to date, with over 2,250 exhibitors showcasing innovations across 16 halls.

Key transactions included Adnoc Drilling’s $223 million acquisition of Deep Well Services and a $490 million contract with BGP Inc. for seismic survey expansion.

The event featured four new conferences and over 370 sessions, highlighting the diverse challenges and opportunities in the energy transition. A focal point of ADIPEC 2024 was the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the energy sector.

The ENACT Majlis, hosted by UAE Minister Dr Sultan Al Jaber, convened global leaders to discuss leveraging AI for accelerated energy transformation.

Dr Al Jaber emphasised three megatrends shaping the future: the rise of emerging markets, energy system transformation, and AI growth. He called for integrated investments and policies to support sustainable progress.

The event also introduced an AI Zone, showcasing cutting-edge AI solutions aimed at decarbonisation. The AI Conference gathered leaders from various sectors to chart a roadmap for incorporating AI into energy strategies.

Creating synergies across sectors was a key theme, with more than 1,800 speakers, including over 40 international ministers, addressing strategies for investment and climate progress. Ministerial sessions provided a platform for leaders from Egypt, India, and the UAE to discuss energy priorities and the role of AI in driving solutions.

Investment in new energy projects was a critical discussion point. The inaugural Finance and Investment Conference highlighted funding disparities between developed and developing nations. Julian Mylchreest from Bank of America emphasised the need to leverage large balance sheets for scaling projects. The conference brought together stakeholders to explore innovative finance structures necessary for an inclusive energy future.

Sessions focused on addressing the financial gap between the Global North and South, with discussions revolving around energy access and investment challenges in emerging markets. UAE Minister Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to investing in diverse energy resources. The importance of a just energy transition was echoed by participants, emphasising inclusivity in discussions about the global energy landscape.

The Hydrogen Conference at ADIPEC 2024 showcased critical advancements and challenges in hydrogen development. Stakeholders discussed the transition from proof of concept to widespread adoption of low-carbon hydrogen solutions, emphasising the need for long-term commitments and viable business models.

As ADIPEC concluded, the energy sector reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources of Egypt, commended Adipec for fostering collaboration over the past four decades.

Adipec 2025 is scheduled for November 3-6, 2025, aiming to build on this year's successes and continue promoting transformative partnerships for a sustainable energy future.