Riyadh:The 25th WPC Energy Congress concluded today in Riyadh, marking an unprecedented milestone with over 33,000 registrations. The event, hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from October 11-15, 2026, was part of the 'Energy Week in Riyadh.'
According to Saudi Press Agency, this congress recorded the highest number of registrations in its 93-year history, attracting participants from 135 countries and 489 media representatives. It was the first time Saudi Arabia hosted the congress, under the theme 'Pathways to an Energy Future for All.'
The event brought together prominent figures such as energy ministers, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and experts from across the globe. It focused on vital topics like energy security, resilience, investment, and innovation. The congress was officially inaugurated by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy, alongside WPC Energy President Pedro Miras.
Throughout the event, discussions covered a wide range of subjects, including artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and transport technologies. These forums provided opportunities for international partnerships and knowledge exchange within the global energy sector.
Significant dialogues explored the future of energy and the priorities guiding Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The congress also honored Vicki Hollub, the first woman to lead a major U.S. oil company, with the WPC Energy's Dewhurst Award.
The congress also featured the inaugural Energy Hackathon, recognizing innovative talent from Saudi Arabia. This competition, organized by the Ministry of Energy, saw over 6,700 participants from more than 40 Saudi cities.
In addition to the main event, Riyadh hosted the 16th session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Electricity, discussing regional energy cooperation and integration. The 'Energy Week in Riyadh' also included the 17th Clean Energy Ministerial and the 11th Mission Innovation Ministerial, emphasizing international energy collaboration.
The congress concluded with an official handover to Kazakhstan, set to host the next WPC Energy Congress in 2028 in Astana, marking the event's debut in Central Asia.