Adipec kicks off in Abu Dhabi with a record‑size showcase. The four‑day event runs from November 2 to 5 and brings together more than 239,000 visitors from over 170 nations. The gathering arrives amid heightened concerns over energy security and recent disruptions to global oil and gas markets, giving the exhibition added relevance for industry and policymakers.
Record‑breaking exhibition draws global energy leaders
Organisers expect a record 2,260 exhibiting companies, including 54 national and international energy firms and more than 40 government ministers. All 16 exhibition halls at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi are booked, prompting the construction of extra structures and a relocation of the opening ceremony to meet demand. This surge of participation reflects the sector’s response to supply challenges and the desire to showcase new projects and partnerships.
“The industry's commitment to Adipec is clear,” Christopher Hudson, President, dmg events, said. “We have a record-breaking 2,260 exhibiting companies, with the exhibition venue fully sold out and additional structures built to accommodate demand.”
Major oil majors such as BP, Shell, TotalEnergies, Eni, ExxonMobil, Chevron and Occidental Petroleum are on the roster, alongside technology groups Siemens, IBM and Microsoft. Their presence underscores the event’s role as a hub for industry dialogue and partnership, where traditional energy players meet digital innovators to explore joint solutions.
AI and sustainability take centre stage
Companies are using the platform to unveil AI‑driven tools aimed at boosting efficiency and cutting emissions. Halliburton will display advanced drilling and AI‑powered optimisation systems, while Emerson plans to showcase autonomous operations software. GE Vernova, Schneider Electric, SLB, Aveva and Honeywell are also set to demonstrate AI‑enabled hardware and digital twins, highlighting a shift toward smarter, greener operations across the value chain.
Research released ahead of the show found 76 % of surveyed Middle East energy leaders increased investment in autonomous technology over the past year, and a joint Adnoc‑Microsoft study reported 89 % of respondents raised AI spending. Energy security, electricity demand and financing new infrastructure dominate the agenda, reflecting the sector’s shift toward smarter, greener operations and the growing importance of AI in addressing future challenges.
