Bahrain is not backing away from its net-zero by 2060 target, according to Oil and Environment Minister and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs Dr Mohammed Bin Daina.
Speaking at the Middle East Oil, Gas and Geoscience Show (MEOS GEO 2025), the minister stressed that nature-based solutions and mangrove afforestation are central to Bahrain’s national energy transition plan.
Dr Bin Daina also highlighted the global issue of energy poverty, noting that the world must help those without access to electricity, whether with renewables or fossil fuels. “We can’t just leave people behind while some are only thinking about climate change,” he said during a one-on-one session with World Economic Forum senior fellow John Defterios.
In a candid assessment of the global energy landscape, the minister called the current market a “total mess,” citing a mix of factors, including a global shortage of investment in new oil fields and high interest rates. He pointed to the growing demand for energy driven by artificial intelligence (AI), which he said will increase consumption while supply decreases.
Despite the challenges, Dr Bin Daina sees great opportunity in the intersection of energy, climate, and technology. He fully supports his dual portfolio as Oil and Environment Minister, arguing that the energy sector’s voice is essential in discussions about emissions and carbon capture. “AI can play a big role in optimising consumption, production, and even the processing in refineries,” he explained.
Dr Bin Daina expressed optimism about a new joint venture for unconventional, deep gas exploration, noting that the discovery would support the kingdom’s energy transition goals and reduce gas demand. He also provided an update on the ongoing modernisation of the Bapco Refinery, a massive $7 billion project and one of the largest in Bahrain’s history. The facility is nearing completion and will have a capacity of 400,000 barrels per day.
Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the three-day conference and exhibition was inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa at Exhibition World Bahrain.
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))