Manama: The International Downstream Conference and Exhibition 2025 (IDCE 2025) commenced under the patronage of His Royal Highness Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, featuring the theme "Innovating Energy, Creating Sustainable Value". The event gathered over 5,000 senior officials, experts, academics, and industry stakeholders.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Bin Dainah, Minister of Oil and Environment and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, highlighted the robust support provided by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the government, led by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for initiatives aimed at enhancing the vital oil and gas sector. He praised His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa for promoting strategic initiatives and innovations that have strengthened Bahrain's position in the downstream and energy sectors.
The Oil Minister emphasized the commitment to fostering successful industry events aligned with national development goals. He noted that regional oil, gas, and petrochemical conferences serve as premier platforms for knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations, and promoting industry sustainability. The conference facilitates expert networking, project presentations, and discussions on advancing manufacturing and operational excellence to add value to regional downstream industries.
Dr. Bin Dainah stressed that downstream industries are integral to Gulf Cooperation Council economic strategies, driving investment, supporting diversification, and enhancing global competitiveness through advanced technology and sustainable practices. He also underscored the importance of empowering national talent in sector development, investing in training young Bahrainis to ensure a knowledgeable base and sustainable industry growth.
He concluded by acknowledging the Gulf Downstream Association's pivotal role in organizing the event and expressed gratitude to sponsors, participants, and speakers who contribute to advancing the sector, aligning with future aspirations, and boosting the region's global industrial standing.
At the exhibition, the latest innovations and technologies were showcased, with wide participation from leading regional and international downstream companies. Sessions addressed key topics including refining industry growth challenges, resilience, decarbonization, sustainability, and the role of modern technology in improving refinery efficiency and sustainability, while exploring future impacts on downstream and energy industries globally and regionally.
The conference also included a youth program that presented innovative solutions, discussed industrial performance improvements, and enhanced the sector's ability to face challenges sustainably.