Estimating CCS Potential in the UAE

Abstract

This study assesses the potential for Carbon Capture and Storage deployment in the United Arab Emirates through an integrated consideration of emission sources, storage capacity, and economic feasibility. 44 industrial plants have been investigated, and the findings suggest overall capture potential of 82 MtCO₂/year, with power plants having the largest contribution. Storage analysis identified 22 oil and gas fields with 15,082 MtCO₂ cumulative CO₂ storage capacity in EOR cases. An additional 6,460 MtCO₂ capacity was identified in two dynamically simulated saline aquifers. Emission sources were aggregated into 10 clusters and 5 individual facilities and paired with the most suitable storage sinks according to spatial and economic considerations. A supply-cost curve was prepared to make comparisons of capture, transport, and injection costs and concluded that onshore sinks are cheaper but capacity-limited, especially at NEB and Sajaa fields. The R/P ratio for the country was computed as 184 years for oil fields, and 263 years when saline aquifers are included, indicating long-term feasibility. These findings provide important implications for strategic CCS infrastructure installation in the UAE, while highlighting the importance of capacity-aware routing and policy incentives such as carbon pricing in the future.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Pedro Rochedo (Supervisor)