Saudi Arabia has been selected to host the World Energy Conference in 2026, as announced by the World Energy Council (WEC). The 27th edition of this influential global conference will take place from October 26 to 29 in Riyadh.
The Kingdom secured the hosting rights through a competitive bidding process involving all members of the National Committees of the Council. With over 70 members representing more than 3,000 organizations from the energy sector, the Council is a prominent player in the industry.
The World Energy Congress is recognized as the world’s leading and most comprehensive energy event, providing a platform for stakeholders from all over the world to connect and discuss energy transitions. It has been instrumental in shaping the industry for over a century.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, expressed his delight at hosting the 2026 World Energy Conference. He emphasized the significance of this event for the global energy sector, aligning it with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Dr. Mike Howard, Chairman of the Leaders Council at the World Energy Council, praised Saudi Arabia’s successful bid, highlighting the country’s strategic vision for the conference. The bid showcased strong institutional and governmental support, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to the event.
The 27th edition of the World Energy Conference aims to celebrate the legacy of the event while incorporating Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision. Dr. Howard expects the conference to bring together more than 150 executive speakers, 250 speakers, 70 ministers, and over 7,000 international energy stakeholders. The event will facilitate discussions and collaborations across sectors, geographies, and systems, promoting a more equitable energy transition.
The previous edition of the conference will be held in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in 2024. The World Energy Conference is held biennially, providing a platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas and insights.