The 2024 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), a premier oil and gas industry event, kicked off on Monday, highlighting the themes of artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable energy transition.

In his keynote address, United Arab Emirates (UAE)'s Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Sultan Al Jaber, emphasized the transformative impact of AI, describing it as an "era-defining innovation" reshaping productivity and accelerating energy transition.

The ADIPEC 2024 has introduced a new "AI Zone" featuring top tech companies, including Microsoft and Accenture, to showcase solutions for sustainable energy management.

Sharif Al Olama, undersecretary for energy and petroleum affairs at UAE's Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, added that despite the growth of renewable energy, traditional oil resources continue to play a critical role in ensuring global energy stability.

"Even as renewables grow, oil remains the largest fuel source," Al Olama said, highlighting UAE's approach to maintaining a balanced energy mix.

The four-day event is anticipated to attract 184,000 participants from 164 countries, including ministers, more than 200 industry leaders, and over 2,200 exhibitors representing key energy players.

Hundreds of Chinese companies, including PetroChina, China National Offshore Oil Corporation, are participating the exhibition, showcasing technological advancements in digitalization, decarbonization, and renewables in the evolving landscape of the global energy industry.

Key topics at the ADIPEC this year also cover decarbonization, digital innovation, and mobilizing capital for clean energy projects, with an emphasis on bridging financing gaps in emerging markets to support a sustainable and equitable energy future.