MENA’s Economic Transition

Held in partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG), this roundtable gathered leaders from across the region to examine the economic potential that MENA holds as it pursues a green, low-carbon future. Experts highlighted the substantial opportunity for job creation, with studies projecting 10 million new jobs in MENA by 2050 through decarbonization and green industrial growth. Participants discussed the economic transformation required to meet ambitious climate targets, emphasizing the need for industrial diversification, climate-focused policies, and robust incentives.

Speakers focused on MENA’s unique assets, including a young, tech-savvy workforce and ample renewable energy resources, positioning the region to emerge as a leader in green industries. Investments in human capital, including reskilling and upskilling, were emphasized as crucial to support legacy industries transitioning to a green economy. The session also addressed gender policies, highlighting the need for inclusive growth that ensures women both contribute to and benefit from the region’s transition.

Speakers of the Roundtable

Alexander van Veldhoven

Group Chief Strategy Officer

Bapco Energies

Amer Buhussain

Associate Director – Business Development, Manufacturing & Logistics

Tamkeen

Amin Sultan

Chief Power Officer

Aluminium Bahrain

Dana Hamzah

Assistant Undersecretary for Sustainable Development

Ministry of Sustainable Development, Kingdom of Bahrain

Farooq Zuberi

Chief Financial Officer

APM Terminals Bahrain

Ian McCallum

Chief Sustainability Officer

Bank ABC

Dr. Mahmood Majdi

Sr. Engineer Energy Transition

Bahrain Steel

Pablo Avogadri

Partner and Director, Energy

Boston Consulting Group

Sael Al Waary

Group Chief Executive Officer

Bank ABC

Zeeba Askar

President

CFA Society Bahrain

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