The 16th Middle East Refining and Petrochemicals Tech Forum (ME-TECH 2026) concluded in Dubai after bringing together energy officials, engineers, scientists, executives and technology specialists to examine the future of the region’s downstream industries.

Held from September 14 to 16, under the theme, ‘Empowering the Future of the Downstream Sector’, the forum focused on improving existing refinery and petrochemical assets while supporting their longer-term transformation into integrated, low-carbon energy and chemicals hubs.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the event and highlighted the importance of innovation, investment in people and international cooperation in strengthening the sector. 

He said technology could transform refining and petrochemicals, but stressed that skilled and adaptable workforces would remain central to successful transformation.

The three-day programme examined artificial intelligence, digitalisation, advanced analytics, digital twins, predictive maintenance, process technologies and catalysts, energy efficiency, emissions reduction and closer refining-petrochemical integration. 

Discussions also covered carbon management and CCUS, hydrogen, ammonia, future fuels, circular economy solutions and sustainable materials.

A new ‘Collective Intelligence Networking Roundtables’ session provided participants with a platform for peer-to-peer discussions on operational challenges and best practices.

The forum brought together participants from the GCC, wider Middle East, Asia, Europe, North America and other international markets to exchange expertise and explore strategies for a more efficient, competitive and sustainable downstream sector.