Dubai: Emirates and ENOC Group have announced a groundbreaking collaboration with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at exploring and developing joint initiatives for the supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Emirates' hub in Dubai. The MoU was formalized during the Dubai Airshow by key representatives from both organizations, Adel Al Redha, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, and Hussain Sultan Lootah, Acting CEO of ENOC Group.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement lays the groundwork for conducting feasibility studies to assess SAF supply opportunities in Dubai. These studies will focus on evaluating supply chain infrastructure, production capabilities, and the commercial viability of SAF. The collaboration is set to investigate possible pathways for developing economically feasible SAF production and supply infrastructure within the region. ENOC Group will play a pivotal role in evaluating its potential contribution to local production. To steer these efforts, a joint committee will be established to guide the evaluation process.
Adel Al Redha highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating that Emirates is committed to integrating sustainable aviation fuel into its operations, with the establishment of a reliable SAF supply in Dubai being a key priority. This collaboration with ENOC is seen as a crucial step in identifying the most viable pathways for SAF integration.
Hussain Sultan Lootah of ENOC emphasized the importance of SAF in reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector. He noted that the MoU reflects a shared commitment to developing local SAF production and necessary infrastructure, aligning with the UAE's goal of supplying 1 percent of jet fuel to national airlines from locally produced SAF by 2031. Lootah expressed confidence that this collaboration brings the UAE closer to achieving low-carbon aviation.
SAF is recognized as a safe and fully certified drop-in fuel that is compatible with existing aircraft fleets and airport infrastructure. It can be blended with conventional jet fuel at a ratio of up to 50 percent, offering significant reductions in lifecycle carbon emissions. In its pure form, SAF has the potential to reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80 percent compared to conventional jet fuel.