Report Overview
The inaugural ADIPEC Global Energy Report 2026, titled “Power Shift”, was released on 22 October 2026, less than two weeks before the ADIPEC 2026 exhibition in Abu Dhabi (2‑5 November 2026). The report draws on the views of more than 1,800 senior business and energy leaders across ten markets, including a global survey of 1,528 senior decision‑makers from energy, technology, AI, finance, investment and manufacturing, a dedicated survey of 304 senior oil‑and‑gas leaders, and in‑depth interviews.
Core Investment Sentiment
85% of respondents say the energy sector is more attractive to invest in than five years ago, while 64% believe the global energy system proved more resilient than expected during recent disruptions. Optimism about the decade ahead is expressed by 77% of participants.
Regional Shift and Demand Outlook
72% expect the Middle East to become important in energy over the decade, and 74% anticipate the region will play a larger role in building energy infrastructure. 93% state that meeting future energy demand will require growth across several energy sources rather than reliance on a single source.
Artificial Intelligence
71% view AI as an opportunity rather than a risk, 32% expect AI‑driven electricity demand to be higher than current forecasts, and 43% anticipate firms focused on technology and AI will gain the most influence over the global energy system during the next ten years.
Infrastructure Constraints
Respondents identify delays in building and connecting grids as one of the biggest barriers to meeting future demand, second only to geopolitics. Greater grid investment is highlighted as a priority.
ADIPEC Event Context
The ADIPEC 2026 exhibition will be hosted by ADNOC and organised by dmg events, featuring more than 1,800 speakers, 2,250 exhibiting companies and an expected 239,000 attendees. The event will serve as a platform for leaders from energy, technology, finance and government to discuss the report’s priorities and to mobilise capital, accelerate infrastructure development and forge new partnerships.
Quote from Organiser
Christopher Hudson, president of dmg events, said confidence has held up despite disruption, but “confidence alone won’t meet that demand; we need investment, infrastructure and new partnerships.”
Methodology
The research was conducted by Kekst CNC between August and October 2026. It combines a global survey of 1,528 senior decision‑makers, a dedicated survey of 304 senior oil‑and‑gas leaders across ten key markets, and in‑depth interviews, capturing the views of more than 1,800 senior business and energy leaders worldwide.
About ADIPEC
ADIPEC is the world’s largest energy conference and exhibition, organised by dmg events, a subsidiary of Daily Mail and General Trust plc. The 2026 edition will be held at ADNEC Centre, Abu Dhabi.