Population growth, industrial expansion and demand for power has had a dramatic impact on the Middle East gas industry with many countries turning to imports to keep pace.

The region is focusing on exploring sustainable energy solutions and advancing gas production, acknowledging that this trend cannot continue.

The Gas Arabia Summit has been at the forefront of the gas debate for the past decade, acknowledging achievement, examining solutions to the challenges that have emerged, and the prospects for the next ten years and beyond.

The tenth edition will take place from January 13 to 15 next year in Dubai and bring together a new industry advisory board, said a statement.

Nikki Mackay, project director, The Energy Exchange, organiser of the summit, said: “According to a 2013 Chatham House report, GCC countries now consume more primary energy than the whole of Africa. The region recognises the risks in the current system and the economic potential from new sectors and is addressing these issues through sustainability initiatives and strategic partnerships.

“With the involvement of the advisory board the 10th anniversary of the summit covers the critical issues including a CEO symposium on advancing gas production and sustainability, an economist’s debate on the supply/ demand imbalance, plus sessions addressing gas pricing, technology, innovation, strategic partnerships and a regional project round up”.

Two staggered workshops - one that will cover gas flaring and the other unconventional plants - offering the participants the broadest coverage of gas issues in the region, will precede the conference.

“We are still inviting contributions from industry leaders who would like to participate in either the technical or strategic discussions at the 10th Gas Arabia Summit,” Mackay added. - TradeArabia News Service