
Study Period | 2021 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Historical Data Period | 2021 - 2023 |
CAGR | 1.00 % |
Market Concentration | High |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market Analysis
The United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market is expected to register a CAGR of greater than 1% during the forecast period.
The United Arab Emirates' oil and gas downstream sector plays a vital role in the nation's economy, contributing significantly to its economic diversification efforts. As of 2022, the petroleum downstream sector directly contributed to 30% of the UAE's GDP and 13% of its exports, highlighting its crucial role in the country's economic framework. The sector has witnessed substantial modernization efforts, with major players focusing on technological advancement and operational efficiency improvements. The integration of digital technologies and smart solutions across refineries and petrochemical facilities has become a key trend, aimed at optimizing production processes and reducing operational costs.
The UAE's oil and gas downstream sector is undergoing significant transformation through strategic infrastructure developments and capacity enhancement projects. In June 2023, Infinite Mining & Energy announced plans to establish a multifunctional oil refining facility within the Hamriyah Free Zone in Sharjah, with a production capacity of 10,000 barrels per day and an annual refining capability of 3.6 million barrels. This development aligns with the nation's broader strategy to enhance its refining capabilities and meet growing regional demand. Additionally, the Ruwais Derivatives Park, also known as TA'ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone, is emerging as a significant project with Phase I alone projected to cost more than USD 5 billion.
The industry is witnessing a strong push towards sustainability and cleaner fuel production. In December 2023, Vitol completed its inaugural biofuel deliveries in Fujairah, demonstrating the sector's commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative represents a significant step towards developing the UAE's alternative fuel capabilities and aligns with global environmental standards. The trend towards sustainable practices is further evidenced by ADNOC's continuous USD 45 billion initiative to enhance and modernize its downstream operations, focusing on both existing assets and new investments.
The UAE's oil and gas downstream sector is experiencing notable consolidation and strategic partnerships. In November 2023, ADNOC approved the USD 3.5 billion Ruwais Crude Flexibility Project, aimed at enhancing the facility's capability to process heavier grades of crude oil. This development showcases the industry's focus on operational flexibility and market adaptability. The sector has maintained stable operational metrics, with a refinery throughput of 950 thousand barrels per day in 2022, demonstrating the industry's resilience and operational efficiency despite global market fluctuations. The focus on refined petroleum products and downstream processing continues to drive innovation and efficiency.
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market Trends
Increasing Investments in Refining Facilities and Petrochemical Plants
The United Arab Emirates has demonstrated a strong commitment to expanding its downstream sector through substantial investments in refining facilities and petrochemical plants. ADNOC's 2030 Integrated Strategy exemplifies this commitment through a continuous USD 45 billion initiative aimed at enhancing and modernizing its downstream processing operations, utilizing both existing assets and new investments. This strategic approach has materialized in several significant developments, including the June 2023 announcement by Infinite Mining & Energy to establish a multifunctional oil refining facility within the Hamriyah Free Zone in Sharjah, with a production capacity of 10,000 barrels per day and an annual refining capability of 3.6 million barrels. Additionally, the November 2023 approval of the USD 3.5 billion Ruwais Crude Flexibility Project by ADNOC demonstrates the country's ongoing commitment to enhancing its refining capabilities.
The investment momentum extends to the petrochemical sector, with several major projects underway. The Ruwais Derivatives Park, also known as the TA'ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone, is positioned to become the world's largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex, with Phase I alone projected to cost more than USD 5 billion. In January 2023, TA'ZIZ entered a significant shareholder agreement with Fertiglobe, GS Energy Corporation, and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. to develop a 1 million tons per annum low-carbon ammonia production facility at the TA'ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone. Furthermore, in December 2023, Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (ADNOC) engaged in discussions with Austria's OMV to create a chemicals powerhouse valued at over USD 30 billion through the consolidation of their joint ventures, Borealis and Borouge, demonstrating the continued expansion of the UAE's petrochemical capabilities.
Segment Analysis: Refineries
Petrochemical Plants Segment in UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market
The petrochemical plants segment dominates the United Arab Emirates oil and gas downstream market, holding approximately 69% of the market share in 2024. This significant market position is reinforced by major developments like the TA'ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone in Ruwais, which is anticipated to evolve into the world's largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by strategic investments such as the USD 2 billion petrochemical complex development agreement between Reliance Industries and ADNOC in the Ta'ziz industrial complex, and Borouge's expansion of its integrated 5-million-tonnes-per-year polyolefins complex. The UAE government's commitment to doubling petrochemical production capacity, coupled with ADNOC's continuous USD 45 billion initiative to enhance downstream processing operations, demonstrates the strategic importance of this segment in the country's industrial landscape.

Refineries Segment in UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market
The refineries segment maintains a steady presence in the UAE's downstream market, with the country's total oil refining capacity projected to remain stable at 1,227 thousand barrels per day during 2024-2029. This segment is characterized by strategic upgrades and modernization efforts, as evidenced by ADNOC's USD 3.5 billion Ruwais Crude Flexibility Project, which aims to enhance the capability of processing different crude oil grades. The segment's development is supported by major operational facilities including the Ruwais Refinery (817 thousand barrels per day), Jebel Ali Refinery (210 thousand barrels per day), and Fujairah Refinery (120 thousand barrels per day). Recent developments include Infinite Mining & Energy's plans to establish a multifunctional oil refinery within the Hamriyah Free Zone in Sharjah, with a production capacity of 10,000 barrels per day. These initiatives highlight the importance of refinery technology in sustaining the segment's competitiveness in the production of refined petroleum and other petroleum products.
Segment Analysis: Petrochemical Plants
Petrochemical Plants Segment in UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market
The petrochemical plants segment dominates the United Arab Emirates oil and gas downstream market, accounting for approximately 69% of the market share in 2024. This dominance is primarily driven by significant investments in expanding petrochemical production capabilities across the country. The segment's strong position is reinforced by major developments like ADNOC's continuous USD 45 billion initiative to enhance its downstream processing operations, utilizing both existing assets and new investments in the petrochemical sector. The Ta'ziz Industrial Chemicals Zone, situated in the Abu Dhabi Emirate, has emerged as a key industrial center for the chemical derivatives sector, positioned to become the world's largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex. Strategic partnerships and joint ventures, such as the collaboration between ADNOC and ADQ, have created robust investment platforms to fund and oversee the development of chemical projects within the TA'ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone, further solidifying the segment's market leadership.
Growth Dynamics in UAE Petrochemical Plants Segment
The petrochemical plants segment is experiencing robust growth driven by several strategic initiatives and market developments. The expansion is supported by significant projects such as Borouge's integrated 5-million-tonnes-per-year polyolefins complex in Ruwais and the development of new production facilities at the Ta'ziz Industrial Chemicals Zone. The growth trajectory is further strengthened by international collaborations, exemplified by recent partnerships like Reliance Industries and ADNOC's joint development of a USD 2 billion petrochemical complex in Ruwais. The segment's expansion is also bolstered by the UAE's focus on diversifying its petrochemical portfolio, exploring new product lines, and adopting advanced technologies. The government's commitment to doubling petrochemical production capacity, coupled with increasing global demand for petroleum products, positions this segment for sustained growth through 2029.
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Industry Overview
Top Companies in United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market
The UAE's oil and gas downstream market is characterized by continuous innovation and strategic development among key players like ADNOC, TotalEnergies, ExxonMobil, and Shell. Companies are increasingly focusing on technological advancement, particularly in areas of artificial intelligence and automation, to optimize downstream processing and enhance operational efficiency. Strategic partnerships and joint ventures have become a cornerstone of market expansion, with companies collaborating to leverage complementary strengths and share technological expertise. The industry has witnessed significant investment in petrochemical facilities and refining capacity expansion, demonstrating a strong commitment to vertical integration. Market leaders are also prioritizing sustainability initiatives, including carbon capture and storage projects, while simultaneously developing capabilities in renewable energy integration and clean fuel production. These companies are actively pursuing digitalization strategies to improve asset performance and maintain competitive advantages in the evolving energy landscape.
State-owned Enterprise Dominates Downstream Operations Market
The UAE's downstream sector exhibits a unique market structure dominated by ADNOC, the state-owned enterprise, which maintains significant control over the country's oil and gas infrastructure and operations. This market concentration is balanced by strategic partnerships with international oil companies that bring global expertise and technological capabilities to the region. The landscape is characterized by a mix of long-term concession agreements and joint venture arrangements, allowing international players to participate while maintaining national control over strategic assets. The market has witnessed a gradual evolution from purely state-controlled operations to a more collaborative model, though still firmly anchored by ADNOC's central role.
The industry demonstrates a measured approach to market consolidation, with carefully structured partnerships rather than outright mergers and acquisitions. International oil companies maintain their presence through strategic alliances and technical service agreements, contributing to knowledge transfer and operational excellence. The market structure promotes stability while allowing for technological advancement and operational efficiency improvements through collaborative arrangements. This balanced approach has created a robust ecosystem where both state interests and international expertise coexist, fostering sustainable growth and development in the downstream sector.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the UAE's oil and gas downstream market increasingly depends on companies' ability to balance technological innovation with sustainable practices while maintaining operational excellence. Market incumbents must focus on developing advanced refining capabilities, implementing digital solutions, and expanding their petrochemical portfolios to maintain their competitive edge. The ability to integrate renewable energy solutions and develop low-carbon technologies while optimizing existing operations has become crucial for maintaining market position. Companies must also strengthen their research and development capabilities, foster strategic partnerships, and develop robust supply chain networks to enhance their market presence.
For new entrants and expanding players, success hinges on their ability to offer specialized technological solutions and demonstrate strong sustainability credentials while navigating the established market structure. Companies must develop clear value propositions that align with national development goals and energy transition objectives. The regulatory environment continues to evolve, particularly concerning environmental standards and sustainability requirements, making compliance capabilities increasingly important for market success. End-user demands are shifting toward cleaner products and sustainable solutions, requiring companies to adapt their product portfolios and operational strategies accordingly. The ability to form strategic alliances and demonstrate technological expertise in specific niches will be crucial for gaining market share. Additionally, the focus on petroleum products and petroleum distribution is becoming increasingly relevant as companies aim to meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory standards.
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market Leaders
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Emirates National Oil Co
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Abu Dhabi National Oil Co
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Total SA
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Royal Dutch Shell Plc
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Exxon Mobil Corporation
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market News
- In March 2022, Proman signed an agreement with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company ('ADNOC') to construct the UAE's first world-scale methanol production facility at the TA'ZIZ Industrial Chemicals Zone in Ruwais, Abu Dhabi. This agreement is under the terms of Abu Dhabi Chemicals Derivatives Company RSC Ltd. In collaboration with Proman, TA'ZIZ will construct a facility to convert natural gas into methanol with an anticipated annual capacity of up to 1.8 million ton.
- In December 2021, Technip Energies and TARGET Engineering were awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction contract by Abu Dhabi Polymers Co. Ltd, a joint venture between ADNOC and Borealis. Under this contract, the companies will construct a new Ethane Cracker Unit, which will be integrated into the Borouge 4 petrochemical complex in Ruwais, United Arab Emirates. The plant is expected to have a production capacity of more than 1,500 KTA.
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Scope of the Study
- 1.2 Market Definition
- 1.3 Study Assumptions
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET OVERVIEW
- 4.1 Introduction
- 4.2 Refining Capacity and Forecast in million barrels per day, till 2027
- 4.3 Recent Trends and Developments
- 4.4 Government Policies and Regulations
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4.5 Market Dynamics
- 4.5.1 Drivers
- 4.5.2 Restraints
- 4.6 Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.7 PESTLE Analysis
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION - BY PROCESS TYPE
- 5.1 Refining
- 5.2 Petrochemicals
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Mergers and Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Collaborations, and Agreements
- 6.2 Strategies Adopted by Leading Players
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6.3 Company Profiles
- 6.3.1 Emirates National Oil Co.
- 6.3.2 Abu Dhabi National Oil Co.
- 6.3.3 TotalEnergies SA
- 6.3.4 Royal Dutch Shell PLC
- 6.3.5 Exxon Mobil Corporation
- 6.3.6 Sunrise Petroleum FZC
- 6.3.7 Abu Dhabi Polymers Company Ltd
- 6.3.8 Proman AG
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Industry Segmentation
In the downstream sector, crude oil is refined, natural gas is processed and purified, and products derived from crude oil and natural gas are marketed and distributed.
The UAE oil and gas downstream market is segmented by type. By type, the market is segmented into refineries and petrochemical plants. For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts have been done based on refining capacity (million barrels per day).
UAE Oil and Gas Downstream Market Research FAQs
What is the current United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market size?
The United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market is projected to register a CAGR of greater than 1% during the forecast period (2025-2030)
Who are the key players in United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market?
Emirates National Oil Co, Abu Dhabi National Oil Co, Total SA, Royal Dutch Shell Plc and Exxon Mobil Corporation are the major companies operating in the United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market.
What years does this United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market cover?
The report covers the United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market historical market size for years: 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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United Arab Emirates Oil and Gas Downstream Market Research
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