Middle East

• Date: 15 September, 2025
• Year: 2025

The US$1mn Human Energy Health and Wellbeing Award has opened for submissions, recognising outstanding achievements in advancing workforce health and wellbeing in the global energy sector.

Presented by Response Plus Holding PJSC, the Middle East’s leading pre-hospital care and emergency medical services provider, and Burjeel Holdings, a major super-specialty healthcare group in MENA, the award is supported by Prometheus Medical International, a UK-based defence medicine training company.

Organisations worldwide operating in the energy sector are invited to apply before the 30 September 2025 deadline. The initiative is closely aligned with the UAE’s National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 and the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which aims to position the country as a global leader in quality of life by promoting healthy lifestyles, mental wellness, and positive workplace cultures.

The award will honour one organisation demonstrating the most innovative and measurable impact on workforce wellbeing, with particular emphasis on scalable solutions and inclusive participation, including from small and medium-sized enterprises.

The inaugural winner will be announced in November during ADIPEC 2025, further highlighting the UAE’s role as a global hub for energy innovation and sustainable development.

For participation and submission guidelines, organisations can visit the Human Energy Health and Wellbeing Award website.

Dr Rohil Raghavan, CEO of Response Plus Holding PJSC, said, “The Human Energy Awards are more than a recognition platform. They are a catalyst for change. By aligning with the UAE’s national agenda, we are reinforcing the international importance of health and wellbeing as strategic imperatives for economic resilience and global competitiveness.”

 Steven Wines, CEO of Prometheus Medical International and Head of the Award Steering Committee, added, “The US$1mn Human Energy Award is designed to recognise and inspire organisations who think differently about health and wellbeing. In line with its commitment to transparency, credibility, and global relevance, the Award has announced a distinguished international panel of jury. We want to encourage innovative solutions that make a tangible difference to people across the Energy sector.”

• Date: 12 September, 2025
• Year: 2025

The UAE has achieved a score of 98.86% in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme, placing it among the world’s top performers in aviation safety, according to a new report from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

The GCAA credited this result to strong regulatory oversight, significant investment in human capital, the adoption of advanced technologies, and alignment with global best practices. The findings were shared in a Wam news agency report, underscoring the UAE’s determination to position its aviation sector at the forefront of international safety standards.

As part of its broader efforts to document and share progress, the authority has launched a new series of analytical reports titled A Closer Look: Civil Aviation in the UAE. The most recent edition, Building One of the World’s Safest Skies, highlights milestones in aviation safety and outlines the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

At the core of these achievements is the UAE’s National Aviation Safety Plan (2023–2026). Implemented under the State Safety Programme and aligned with ICAO’s Global Safety Plan, it focuses on reducing operational risks, strengthening oversight, and embedding a safety-first culture across the sector. In 2024 alone, the GCAA carried out more than 900 safety oversight activities, including inspections, licensing, infrastructure checks, and airspace reviews.

Technology has been a major enabler of progress. The authority has rolled out an AI-powered, risk-based oversight system that provides real-time risk dashboards, automated audit prioritisation, and operator self-assessment portals. This system enhances efficiency and regulatory reach without increasing staff numbers, reflecting the UAE’s We the UAE 2031 vision of combining innovation with effective governance.

Other notable initiatives include the Voluntary Reporting System (VORSY), which encourages pilots and operators to report potential hazards, and the Communicable Disease Management Protocol (CAR-CDMP), developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Prevention. This protocol—recognised by both ICAO and the World Health Organization—sets new standards for preventing and managing disease transmission within aviation operations.

The UAE has also assumed a leadership role on the global stage by hosting and organising several high-profile aviation gatherings. These have included the ICAO Conference on Aviation & Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) in 2023, the ICAO RASG-MID meetings in 2024, the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium in 2025, and the Global Sustainable Aviation Market (GSAM) 2025, alongside its annual UAE Aviation Safety Conference.

The GCAA emphasised that safety in the UAE is not treated as a procedural requirement, but as the foundation of aviation operations. It underpins passenger trust, ensures the continuity of air travel, and safeguards lives. The authority stressed that these principles drive every initiative undertaken in the sector, reinforcing the UAE’s position as one of the safest and most trusted aviation hubs in the world.

• Topic: Training
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 11 September 2025
• Year: 2025

3t, a leading provider of safety-critical training and blended learning solutions for high-hazard industries, has received accreditation by Saudi Arabia's Transport General Authority (TGA) enabling it to run its maritime training programmes at its Dammam training centre

The accreditation means that 3t’s maritime training meets internationally recognised standards, ensuring Saudi Arabia’s maritime workforce is equipped with world-class skills, safety protocols, and operational readiness. It underlines 3t’s commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, particularly in workforce localisation and the development of safety-critical capabilities.

“We are extremely proud to receive TGA accreditation,” said Hani Sagr, managing director MENA at 3t. “This recognition affirms the exceptional quality of our training programmes and our strategic commitment to Saudi Arabia’s maritime future. It enables us to deliver industry-aligned training that supports local talent development and meets the evolving needs of our clients and partners across the region.”

Dr. Atiyah Alatiyah, director of Maritime Accreditation and Qualification at the TGA added, “The Transport General Authority has accredited 3t’s maritime training centre in Saudi Arabia for delivery of basic STCW courses. This recognition reflects our commitment to raising safety and operational standards across the Kingdom. By endorsing high-quality, internationally aligned training providers, we are helping to build a skilled, future-ready workforce that supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and strengthens the Kingdom’s position as a global maritime leader.”

This achievement complements 3t’s wider strategic initiatives in the Kingdom, including the recent rebranding of its GTSC training centre in Dammam and the launch of a pioneering programme aimed at empowering women in Saudi Arabia’s energy sector.

• Date: 9 September, 2025
• Year: 2025

Health and safety will be a central theme at WETEX 2025, reflecting Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA) commitment to promoting global standards of workplace well-being.

Hosted at Za’abeel Hall 6 across the three-day exhibition, the dedicated Health & Safety Hub offers an extensive programme designed to raise awareness, share best practices, and explore the latest innovations in occupational health and safety management.

Running from 30 September to 2 October 2025, the sessions will provide a platform for industry leaders, safety practitioners, and policymakers to address key aspects of workplace health. Discussions will span occupational health and safety standards, emergency preparedness, workplace well-being, stress management, and resilience building. This comprehensive agenda ensures that delegates gain both practical and strategic insights into safeguarding workers in high-risk industries such as energy, water, construction, and manufacturing.

The brochure emphasises WETEX’s goal of aligning with international benchmarks in health and safety, while also tailoring solutions to the region’s evolving industrial and environmental context. By focusing on prevention, preparedness, and mental health alongside physical safety, the Health & Safety Hub represents a progressive approach to risk management.

Health and safety will also be integrated into other areas of the event programme. On the second day of the Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) agenda, DEWA will deliver a dedicated session on “Health and Safety Overview”. This engagement underlines the authority’s proactive role in ensuring that suppliers and contractors maintain compliance with its rigorous safety framework. The session will highlight best practices for safe operations, while also exploring how DEWA collaborates with its partners to build safer supply chains.

The inclusion of well-being, stress management, and resilience highlights a broader recognition that workplace safety goes beyond compliance. WETEX 2025 will showcase strategies that support not only accident prevention but also workforce sustainability and productivity. By providing a dedicated platform, the event ensures that health and safety remain integral to the conversation about energy transition, sustainability, and innovation.

Through its Health & Safety Hub and supporting sessions, WETEX 2025 reinforces the importance of embedding safety at every level of organisational practice. Visitors can expect actionable insights, exposure to global standards, and opportunities to engage with experts committed to shaping safer, healthier, and more resilient workplaces across the region.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 3 September 2025
• Year: 2025

Reports have confirmed that the Saudi Water Partnership Company's Al-Rayes-Rabigh pipeline project has surpassed two million safe work hours

Upon completion, currently estimated in Q2 2026, the 150km-long pipeline will process up to half a million cubic metres of water daily.

TradeArabia has reported comments from Khaled Al-Quraishi, the chief executive of the Saudi Water Partnership Company. "The project has achieved more than two million safe work hours... with work in full swing, the project is on track for commercial operations by the end of the second quarter of 2026."

The project is the first pipeline connecting water desalination sources in Makkah and Madinah, estimated to cost around 2.5 billion Saudi Riyals. Finance was secured in March 2024.

Announcing the financial close of the project last year, Al-Quraishi said, "Rayis-Rabigh IWTP consortium managed to successfully complete the financial closure... despite the floating global market conditions.

"This demonstrates SWPC’s commitment to fully support investment projects and to increase private sector participation by giving local and foreign investors the opportunity to participate in the implementation of these projects. As a result, these projects will create job opportunities and support local content to complement the strategic objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030."

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 2 September 2025
• Year: 2025

Newly-released figures from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) show an improving picture in workplace health and safety in the Kingdom

According to the Health and Safety at Workplace Statistics publication 2024, 95% of workers have coverage for basic healthcare, 39% of workers received training in health and safety measures, 40.4% have access to a dedicated occupational health and safety department at their workplace, and 38.8% have an occupational health and safety representative at their workplace. 32.2% of workers received periodic medical examinations provided at their workplace.

The rate of work injuries among workers aged 15 and above reached 245.7 non-fatal injuries and 1.1 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers, excluding road traffic injuries. The non-fatal injuries rate has shown a significant improvement in recent years, dropping by 30% compared with 416 per 100,000 reported a few years ago. Regarding risks at workplace, the results highlighted that 5.4% of workers were required to work on hazardous machines, 2.1% were required to deal with chemicals, and 1% are exposed to heavy metals.

The results also showed that over the past 12 months, 79.5% of workers reported that they had not experienced any work-related health problems. The most common work-related health problems were "work-related stress" at 2.1%, followed by "eye and vision problems" at 2%.

The estimates of Health and Safety at Workplace Statistics are based on self-reported data from participants through field visits conducted in the 2024 National Health Survey (NHS), except for the work-related injury rate, which was calculated from the register-based data from the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, and the 2024 population estimates from the General Authority for Statistics. 

Updated systems and regulations

In line with Vision 2030 objectives aiming to minimise workplace injuries, diseases, and fatalities across all sectors, the systems and regulations related to occupational safety and health have been developed and updated in recent years, aligned with the needs of the Saudi labour market and international standards.

Key legislative measures passed in the last couple of years have included quotas for HSE practitioners for a certain numbers of workers, along with Saudization quotas for HSE practitioners; and regulations prohibiting outdoor work in the middle of the day, in common with other Gulf states. Initiatives launched by the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (NCOSH) have included the creation of a national platform for reporting and investigating work-related accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases to identify root causes of accidents, establish appropriates rules to reduce them and prevent their recurrence. It is also conducting training and awareness initiatives, establishing OSH research and development centres, developing a system to verify OSH practitioners, improving the knowledge and capabilities of OSH practitioners to implement mandatory health and safety regulations, and running programmes to enhance companies’ compliance with OSH requirements and regulate high-risk occupations.

These policies and initiatives are achieving results, with a significant reduction in the Kingdom's work-related injury rate.

At the Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference held in Riyadh in May, H.E. Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, announced landmark initiatives aimed at enhancing the occupational safety and health system in both Saudi Arabia and across the region. These included the launch of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the creation of an Occupational Safety and Health Standards Guide in collaboration with the General Organization for Social Insurance, as well as the introduction of the National Incentive Program for Compliance and Excellence, among others.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 1 September 2025
• Year: 2025

Workers in Oman's energy and minerals sector must meet mandatory licensing requirements implemented by the Sultanate's Ministry of Labour

Effective from September 1^st, 2025, the licensing rule change aims to regulate the labour market and improve workplace efficiency and safety.

43 professions, including HSE advisor, excavator operator, and machinist, among others, are subject to mandatory licensing under the new rules.

Licenses can be obtained via the Oman Energy Association, and are (as of September 2025) a prerequisite for the renewal or issue of work permits. Work permits will not be granted without the professional practice licenses. The Ministry of Labour has urged organisations to take measures to ensure their workforces adhere to the new regulations.

Similar regulation has been introduced to the logistics sector, including refrigerated truck drivers and waste transport truck drivers.

• Date: 28 August, 2025
• Year: 2025

OQ Exploration and Production (OQEP) has successfully commissioned the Bisat-C Expansion Facilities in Block 60, raising total oil processing capacity to 67,000 barrels per day, according to the Oman News Agency.

The project, described as a major milestone in OQEP’s upstream growth strategy, was delivered in record time, from contract award in January 2024 to first crude in less than 18 months. The early completion reflects what the company called “high levels of coordination, planning, and technical execution.”

The expansion enables an additional gross fluids handling capacity of 447,000 barrels per day, including 37,000 bpd of oil and 410,000 bpd of Produced Water treatment. OQEP said this strengthens the maturation of production growth from its flagship Block 60 asset.

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards were a central pillar of the project’s delivery. At its peak, Bisat-C hosted 1,200 personnel, achieving three million safe man-hours without a single Lost Time Injury (LTI). The project also recorded two million kilometres driven without any Road Traffic Accidents (RTA), underscoring OQEP’s commitment to safe operations.

Oman’s localisation agenda also benefited from the development. OQEP reported an In-Country Value (ICV) spend of RO 24.6mn directed to SMEs, Made in Oman goods, and local service providers. In addition, 23 Omani graduates were trained and employed through the project.

On the technical side, the expansion required 486 piles (each 12 metres deep) to support new tanks and processing infrastructure. The Produced Water tank, the largest installed, has a storage capacity of 27,784 cubic metres (174,700 barrels). Other key units include a Gas Flotation Tank (15 metres high), a Gross Inlet Separator weighing 145 tonnes, and a Heater Treater and Desalter package with a combined capacity of 40,400 bpd.

OQEP added that the new water injection pumps, powered by a 4 MW system, will enhance reservoir management by re-injecting 1,130 cubic metres per hour at 90 Barg.

• Topic: ESG
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 25 August 2025
• Year: 2025

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has signed an MoU with Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) to advance Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives in support of Bahrain’s sustainability goals

The MoU covers co-operation to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and balance economic and environmental priorities. Key initiatives include a specialised research study to identify the optimal energy mix for Alba’s operations, and the development of a unified ESG framework. A joint task force of experts from both organisations will lead these efforts. This collaboration, aligned with Bahrain’s net-zero 2060 commitment reinforces the value of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable industrial growth, advancing research, and delivering long-term benefits to the local community.

Alba’s CEO Ali Al Baqali stated, “This MoU with Derasat is a testament to Alba’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. By combining our industrial expertise with Derasat’s research capabilities, we are laying the groundwork for transformative ESG initiatives that will not only benefit Alba but also contribute to Bahrain’s national goals. Together, we aim to pioneer solutions in renewable energy and carbon reduction that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible.”

Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat)’s chief executive officer, Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, added, "This memorandum reflects our shared vision to strengthen research partnerships in energy and sustainability. Through advanced mathematical modelling and scenario analysis conducted by our Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy Lab (AIRE Lab), we aim to deliver practical, data-driven solutions that support Bahrain’s long-term economic competitiveness and environmental goals.”

Since its inception, Alba has invested in numerous environment, sustainable and socio-economic development projects that have had a positive impact on society, launching a comprehensive ESG roadmap with six target areas in 2022. Alba’s recent projects such as the first-of-its-kind US$37.5 million zero-waste Spent Pot Lining Treatment Plant, the Power Station 5 Block 4 Project, and the upcoming +6 MW Solar Farm Project align with the goals of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 as well as the Kingdom’s Net Zero Carbon targets. In May 2024 Alba launched EternAl, its low carbon aluminium product line with two initial variants: EternAl-30 and EternAl-15 with a 30% and 15% recycled content, respectively. This advances its commitment to a circular economy and secondary aluminium, while addressing the growing global demand for low carbon aluminium.

Alba has been recognised for its initiatives to produce aluminium responsibly through awards such as Top ESG performer in Bahrain by ESG Invest, Safeguard Label from Bureau Veritas and Best Corporate Governance Award by Ethical Boardroom.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 20 August 2025
• Year: 2025

Compliance rates reached 96% across the Dubai Municipality's 25,000 site inspections in the first half of 2025

That figure represents a 36% increase against H1 2024, with over 18,800 construction sites inspected.

1,669 completion certificates were issued, up 30% on 2024. Those permits represented around two million square metres of residential, commercial and industrial space.

CEO of the Dubai Municipality's buildings regulation and permits agency, Eng. Maryam Al Muhairi, said the organisation "places great emphasis on precise engineering oversight of construction activities, considering it a key tool to regulate the sector and elevate its standards, in line with our unwavering commitment to developing it into the world’s smartest and most sustainable.

"Today, Dubai is not just a rapidly developing city — it is a global platform offering a sustainable model for future urban development. We remain committed to pursuing this ambitious vision, working hand in hand with our partners in the construction sector to drive sustainability, excellence, and innovation."

• Topic: Fire Safety
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 20 August 2025
• Year: 2025

Oman-based Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy (FEC) has appointed Sam Alcock as chief executive officer, as it targets 30% growth this year

Alcock joined the specialist fire and life safety consultancy in 2011 as a fire consultant and was appointed Dubai director in 2016. He has been instrumental in positioning Tenable FEC as a trusted fire engineering partner across the GCC and internationally, expanding the consultancy’s footprint in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Africa and India while maintaining strong profitability and client relationships. In his new role he will have a strong focus on scaling operations in existing markets and developing new regional and international opportunities.

In 2024, Tenable FEC recorded a 25% increase in revenue, delivering over 540 projects valued at US$6mn, spanning mixed-use and hospitality developments and pre- and post-contract fire engineering services for high-end projects such as those along the Dubai Water Canal. So far in 2025, the consultancy has been awarded projects worth US$4.2mn. With Tenable FEC now Salamah-approved in Saudi Arabia and the local office fully operational, the consultancy is targeting 30% growth this year, driven by large-scale infrastructure and masterplanning projects.

Alcock said, “It’s a privilege to be awarded the role of CEO at such a pivotal time for the business. Our team has built a strong foundation for growth and I look forward to continuing this momentum. My focus will be on expanding our capabilities, enhancing service delivery and strengthening our reputation as a leader in fire and life safety consultancy.”

Founded in Oman in 2010, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy provides a comprehensive range of high-quality, fire and life safety services, including code consulting, fire system design, performance-based fire design and third-party verification within the built environment. With offices in Muscat, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and London, the company executes regional and international projects of any size in the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia. The team approach projects with leading talent and innovative technologies while adhering to international best practices, design codes and standards.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: August 18th
• Year: 2025

The Saudi Gazette has reported several health and safety regulation changes to group housing height, space, location, and noise levels amongst other criteria

Saudi's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing deems housing units with capacity between 500 and 10,000 people as 'group housing', with residential buildings capped at 500.

Reports suggest the new regulation will require a dedicated operational supervisor at each group residential facility, bedrooms constructed at least four square meters per person occupying it, and two kitchens, toilets and bathrooms per eight residents.

One parking space must now be included per 100 residents at each residential project.

No more than 40% of the site's land plot can be developed moving forward.

Boundary walls on commercial streets, barriers above fences, and air-conditioning units or satellite dishes on balconies have reportedly all been prohibited under the new regulation.