Latest news with #LootahBiofuels
Mid East Info
21-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
SMEs and Startups Take Centre Stage at the Largest-Ever Edition of Make it in the Emirates - Middle East Business News and Information
Over 720 exhibitors and 4,800 new products make this the biggest edition of the event to date. High level of SMEs and startups participating, highlighting a bold future for homegrown industrial innovation. UAE-based companies are leading the way, demonstrating the global potential of high-performance products made locally. Abu Dhabi, May 2025: The fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates has seen an unprecedented turnout from hundreds of new exhibitors from across the globe. Reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as the region's leading industrial platform, the event is drawing global and regional industry leaders alongside a growing number of startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs eager to invest, scale, and connect within the UAE's rapidly growing industrial and manufacturing ecosystem. Organised by ADNEC Group and hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and ADNOC, this edition marks a significant leap in scale and ambition. Spanning over 68,000 square metres—five times larger than last year—and featuring more than 720 exhibitors, a sixteen-fold increase from 2024, the event is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors. SMEs and entrepreneurs are at the heart of this transformation, offering bold ideas and specialised expertise that are helping to drive the local economy forward. Over 140 SMEs are taking part in this year's edition, reflecting a broader national direction to empower innovators and small businesses as key drivers of job creation, industrial growth, and economic diversification. Many are exhibiting for the first time, drawn by the UAE's rapid industrial advancement and the unique opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, investors, and procurement leaders. Among the standout startups this year is W.O.N Technologies, an Emirati company specialising in industrial communications networks, computing, and IoT solutions. With a highly skilled technical team and a strong track record of innovation, the company is using the platform to expand its presence across the region. As a technology provider, W.O.N Technologies aims to unlock new growth and investment opportunities, confident that the event will help accelerate its ambition to lead the MENA region in industrial tech innovation. Lootah Biofuels is another example of homegrown ingenuity, investing in waste-to-fuel innovation. Yousif Lootah, CEO of Lootah Biofuels, commented: 'Lootah Biofuels was founded on the belief that waste can become a valuable resource—and Make it in the Emirates proves that such innovation can be built here at home. Our first factory was entirely based on German technology, but our latest facility is now 90% locally developed. As a small company, this platform allows us to show the impact we can make when we combine sustainability with local expertise.' Meanwhile, Younes Al Jalam, Sales Manager at KYMA, said their participation aims to highlight the company's commitment to sustainability through its plant-based, biodegradable products. 'All our products are free from harmful substances such as parabens, phosphates, ammonia, VOCs, and phthalates. KYMA innovations are driven by the belief that sustainability starts with daily household choices—and using the right cleaning products is a vital first step.' Abdulla Albanna Meat Products Manufacturing, represented by Sales Manager Hussein Ali Younsu, is showcasing its range of healthy, preservative-free food products. 'Our goal is to meet growing demand for nutritious, high-quality foods. We're forming new partnerships locally and globally, and this exhibition provides a unique opportunity for consumers to experience our products and their health benefits.' Jawaher Alnuaimi, Deputy Director at Union Chlorine, added that the company is seeking strategic partnerships while showcasing its innovations in chlorine and alkali production. 'Although we were only founded in 2017, our use of advanced membrane technology and distributed control systems ensures not only high product quality but also environmental sustainability—with no harmful by-products or liquid waste.' These examples underscore the tremendous potential of the startups participating in this year's edition of Make it in the Emirates—a platform that provides visionary entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase what they can achieve. Across the four-day event, exhibitors are unveiling over 4,800 new products and introducing innovations aligned with the UAE's strategic industrial priorities, from sustainable manufacturing and clean energy to food security and advanced healthcare technologies. The event is also supported by 31 strategic partners of the National In-Country Value (ICV) Programme, who are working closely with new and returning participants to deepen local supply chains, foster industrial growth, and enable knowledge transfer across sectors. Held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, Make it in the Emirates plays a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, bringing together public and private sector leaders to shape the future of national industry.
Zawya
14-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Lootah Biofuels CEO highlighted strategic role of used cooking oil in MENA's Low-Carbon Fuels Summit
DUBAI, UAE: Mr. Yousuf Saeed Lootah, Founder and CEO of Lootah Biofuels, the first Biofuels factory in the Middle East, participated as a key speaker at the Low Carbon Fuels MENA Summit, which took place from 13 to 14 May 2025 at the Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers in Dubai, UAE. Organized by CMT, the summit focused on the critical theme of "MENA—Global Supply Hub Potential: Market, Technology & Economic Opportunities." Mr. Lootah delivered a presentation titled "Availability / Sustainability of Feedstocks Supply for Low Carbon Fuels Production in the Middle East." And delved into crucial aspects concerning feedstocks for low-carbon fuel production. He covered the feedstocks / UCO market outlook, highlighting how Used Cooking Oil (UCO), previously seen as a waste stream, is now recognised as a strategically significant feedstock for producing low-carbon biofuels like biodiesel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This recognition is driving the region's low-carbon fuel ambitions and supporting its potential to position MENA as a key global player. The Middle East and Africa (MEA) used cooking oil market currently holds a valuation of $349.46 million in 2024, with projections rising to $364.07 million in 2025 and reaching $503.91 million by the end of the forecast period in 2033, reflecting a steady 4.15% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). Key drivers for this market growth were highlighted, including the surging global market for sustainable fuels, the economic advantage UCO offers with 60-80% cost savings compared to virgin vegetable oils for biodiesel production, the rapid growth of the HORECA sector across MENA generating increasing UCO volumes, strategic government initiatives like UAE Net Zero 2050 and Saudi Vision 2030, and increasing public consciousness regarding environmental awareness. Mr. Lootah also addressed the bottlenecks and challenges currently faced in feedstock supply. These challenges include underdeveloped collection infrastructure, with collection rates in the UAE remaining relatively low (<50%), logistical complexities stemming from scattered sources and transportation costs, evolving regulatory frameworks that may lack clear mandates and enforcement, variability in UCO quality necessitating robust pre-treatment, and insufficient market awareness among potential UCO generators. Mr. Lootah focused on unlocking household UCO potential, identifying it as an untapped reservoir. While collecting from individual households is logistically complex and costly, it represents significant volumes generated daily. Solutions discussed may include implementing designated collection points, leveraging technology such as Smart Apps (with Lootah Biofuels pioneering home collection services), and launching essential awareness campaigns to educate households on proper disposal. Scalability in household collection requires dense and accessible networks, potentially leveraging technology and integrating with existing waste management systems, supported by effective incentive structures which could include financial rewards (like Lootah's app), convenience (home pickup, accessible drop-offs), and environmental awareness. MENA is at a crucial juncture in its energy transition, actively pursuing economic diversification and addressing global decarbonisation mandates. Enhancing feedstock availability and sustainability, particularly through leveraging UCO, is crucial for positioning the region as a significant player in the bio-economy and contributing to a sustainable future. About Lootah Biofuels Lootah Biofuels is a leading sustainable fuel producer based in the UAE and the first Biofuels factory launched in the Middle East back in 2010. The company produces over 6 million litres of biofuel annually, utilising feedstocks such as Used Cooking Oil. Operating three production plants and seven biofuel filling stations within the UAE, Lootah Biofuels is also engaged in UCO collection and exports its products internationally to markets including the Netherlands, Germany, the UK, and India. For media inquiries and more information, please contact: Khaled Estef Mobile: 0509929002 Email: khaled@
Zawya
19-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Yousif bin Saeed Lootah's Ramadan Majlis discusses sustainability and the circular economy in the UAE
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Yousif bin Saeed Lootah hosted a distinguished gathering of high-ranking government officials, business leaders, academics, and media representatives to discuss key topics related to sustainability, the circular economy, and renewable energy. The Ramadan Majlis was held on March 17 2025 at Yousif Bin Saeed Lootah's Residence in Dubai. The Majlis featured the participation of H.E. Eng. Saif Ghubash, Assistant Undersecretary for Petroleum, Gas, and Mineral Resources Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure; H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Director General of Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat); Eng. Amal Al Ali, Director of Petroleum and Gas Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure; Eng. Safa Bani Rashid, Head of Sustainability at Dubai Municipality; Eng. Saeed Amiri and Eng. Faisal Al Qahtani from Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC); and Eng. Ahmed Zangerli and Eng. Kim Benfield from RAK Gas. The discussions focused on the latest advancements and initiatives in these fields, with a strong emphasis on innovative solutions that contribute to climate neutrality and reinforce the UAE's circular economy. A key highlight of the gathering was the Lootah Biofuels UCO collection Initiative, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The initiative aims to collect and recycle used cooking oils (UCO), transforming them into sustainable biofuels. Discussions underscored the initiative's importance in advancing the shift toward clean energy and mitigating the environmental impact of improperly discarded cooking oils, which can damage sewage systems and the environment. As a part of the initiative, designated collection containers will be installed across the UAE to facilitate the collection of used cooking oils, which are then transported to specialized processing facilities and converted into clean and sustainable biofuels. This process not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhances energy efficiency but also enables safer disposal of UCO, which usually causes blockages and contamination of sewerages and soil. Additionally, attendees explored the role of the smart application launched by Lootah Biofuels, which enables individuals and families to request oil collection services directly from their homes. The app also incentivizes participation by offering financial rewards credited to users' digital wallets. During the session, Yousifbin Saeed Lootah emphasized that the Ramadan Majlis provides a platform for open dialogue on the future of sustainability in the UAE. He stated that the circular economy is no longer a choice but a necessity to ensure a more sustainable future for upcoming generations. Lootah also noted the increasing awareness and engagement in renewable energy and recycling initiatives, expressing optimism about public-private partnerships that will drive these efforts forward. H.E. Eng. Saif Ghubash highlighted the government's commitment to sustainability through strategic policies and regulations. He reaffirmed the government's role in simplifying procedures, facilitating services, and supporting the private sector in implementing national sustainability strategies. He also praised the Ramadan Majlis for fostering constructive discussions that align with the "Year of the Community" initiative and drive progress toward clean and sustainable energy. Regarding the Lootah Biofuels Initiative, H.E. Ghubash stressed that it reflects the UAE's dedication to accelerating the transition to clean energy. He confirmed that the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure strongly supports such initiatives, which blend innovation with community engagement to achieve the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy. H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Director General of Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat), described the private sector as the primary driver of the UAE's national sustainability strategy. He emphasized that public-private partnerships are key to the UAE's global leadership in sustainability and that raising awareness and encouraging community participation are fundamental to building a circular economy and achieving clean energy goals. The National Biofuel Policy plays a vital role in diversifying energy sources and providing sustainable fuel alternatives. Studies indicate that switching entirely to biodiesel can reduce the carbon footprint of diesel-powered vehicles by 75%. As part of its expansion strategy, Lootah Biofuels recently launched its smart application (Lootah Biofuels App) on Android and iOS. This app encourages individuals, businesses, and institutions in the UAE to contribute to recycling used cooking oils into clean energy instead of improper disposal, which poses environmental and public health risks. The bilingual application, available in Arabic and English, allows users to request oil collection services directly from their homes, receive financial incentives credited to their digital wallet, and use a built-in calculator to track the amount of oil they have contributed, fostering environmental awareness. The Majlis concluded with a Ramadan Suhoor banquet, offering guests the opportunity to exchange ideas and explore collaborative efforts that support sustainability and the circular economy in the UAE. About Lootah Biofuels Lootah Biofuels aims to increase the recycling rate of used cooking oils in the UAE to over 80% in the coming years, compared to the current rate of less than 50%. Since its establishment in 2010, the company has expanded its supplier network, partnering with numerous businesses in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. The top 10 partners alone contribute more than 300,000 liters of used cooking oil per month. For media inquiries and more information, please contact: Khaled Estef Email: khaled@
Zawya
24-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure launches initiative in collaboration with 'Lootah Biofuels' to collect used cooking oil and convert it into clean fuel
Dubai – United Arab Emirates: The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, in collaboration with Lootah Biofuels, a leader in the circular economy, has launched an initiative to collect used cooking oil in designated containers for conversion into biofuel. This initiative aligns with the Ministry's efforts to accelerate the transition towards renewable and clean energy sources and achieve the UAE's net-zero carbon goals. The initiative provides a strong push for encouraging sustainable practices by distributing specialized collection containers in various locations, facilitating the collection, transportation, and conversion of used cooking oil into biofuel. This process helps reduce the harmful environmental impact of disposing of used oils as waste while also minimizing its negative effects on sewage networks and public health. Additionally, the initiative raises community awareness about the importance of waste reduction, recycling, and the conversion of used cooking oil into clean and cost-effective biofuel. H.E. Eng. Sharif Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, stated: 'The UAE continues to launch innovative initiatives to achieve sustainable development goals and its Net-Zero 2050 Strategy. Our partnerships with the private sector stimulate innovation and employ advanced technology to accelerate the transition to sustainable solutions. The launch of this initiative to collect used cooking oil in designated containers and convert it into biofuel encourages greater participation from individuals and businesses in supporting clean energy initiatives.' H.E. also praised Lootah Biofuels for its pioneering efforts in producing biofuel from used cooking oil, which aligns with the UAE's vision. He highlighted the country's commitment to climate action through various strategies and policies, such as the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, the National Biofuel Policy, and the Circular Economy Policy, which aim to balance economic needs with environmental goals while enhancing institutional and individual energy efficiency. These efforts significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability. This initiative aligns with the latest global best practices in encouraging individuals, families, and businesses to participate in sustainable activities by providing them with accessible means to contribute. Used cooking oil makes up a significant portion of wasted food that is often discarded, releasing methane gas, which has a more severe impact on global warming than carbon dioxide. Mr. Yousif Bin Saeed Lootah, Founder and CEO of Lootah Biofuels, emphasized: 'This new initiative by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure marks a significant step in advancing sustainability efforts, promoting the circular economy, and fostering innovation. It underscores the UAE's leadership in supporting sustainable solutions and raising awareness about the importance of preserving and utilizing available resources efficiently.' He added that the initiative expands the collection network for used cooking oil, ensuring it is repurposed for environmentally friendly and sustainable biofuel production. He urged individuals and organizations to take advantage of this initiative to support sustainable solutions. Additionally, he noted that this initiative serves as a strong motivator for Lootah Biofuels to accelerate and expand its efforts to achieve the objectives of the UAE's National Biofuel Policy, which was developed and supervised by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure to ensure the availability of clean and sustainable energy sources. The National Biofuel Policy aims to provide sustainable fuel alternatives and diversify energy sources within the energy mix, with a focus on increasing the share of biodiesel to 20% by 2050. It is worth noting that complete reliance on 100% biodiesel can reduce the carbon footprint of diesel-powered vehicles by up to 75%. As part of Lootah Biofuels' efforts to expand its network of cooking oil suppliers and encourage public participation in innovative green solutions and the circular economy, the company recently launched its smart application (Lootah Biofuels) on Android and iOS platforms. The app encourages individuals, businesses, and institutions in the UAE to contribute to disposing of used cooking oil responsibly and transforming it into a clean energy source, thereby reducing environmental and public health hazards. The smart app, available in both Arabic and English, allows users to request home collection services for used cooking oil, making it easy and safe for families and individuals to dispose of it. Additionally, participants in the collection program receive monetary rewards, which are credited to a digital wallet integrated within the app. The app also features a calculator, enabling users to track and monitor the amount of oil they have contributed, increasing awareness of their positive environmental impact. Lootah Biofuels aims to increase the recycling rate of used cooking oil in the UAE to over 80% in the coming years, compared to the current rate of less than 50%. Since its establishment in 2010, Lootah Biofuels has expanded its supplier network, which includes numerous entities, especially within the hospitality and restaurant sectors. The top 10 suppliers contribute a total of more than 300,000 liters of used cooking oil per month, which is then converted into sustainable biofuel.
Web Release
31-01-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Lootah Biofuels Launches Smart App to Expand UCO Collection Network in Converting Waste into Clean Energy
Lootah Biofuels, a pioneer in the circular economy through the production of biofuel from used cooking oil, has launched its smart app (Lootah Biofuels) for both Android and iOS platforms with an aim to encourage individuals, businesses, and institutions across the UAE to responsibly dispose of used cooking oil (UCO). The move will divert disposal of UCO to the ground and sewerage, which poses environmental and public health risks, converting it into clean energy. The launch of the smart app is part of Lootah Biofuels' ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices by expanding its network of used cooking oil suppliers and facilitating community participation in innovative initiatives to develop green solutions and drive the circular economy. Since its inception in 2010, the company has been expanding its supplier network, which includes numerous institutions, particularly in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. The top 10 partners alone contribute more than 300,000 litres of used cooking oil per month. The smart app, available in Arabic and English, allows users to request home collection services for used cooking oil, making it easier for families and individuals to dispose of oil safely without causing environmental damage, burdening the sewage system, or incurring the cost of transporting it to distant collection points. Additionally, the app features an interactive map showing the locations of biodiesel fuel stations and centres for easy access. To encourage participation in this initiative, which aligns with the UAE's strategic sustainability goals, users providing used cooking oil for collection will receive financial incentives added to a built-in digital wallet within the app. The app also includes calculator that enables users to accurately track and monitor the amount of oil they have collected, enhancing awareness of their positive environmental impact. Yousif Bin Saeed Lootah, Founder and CEO of Lootah Biofuels, stated: 'We are committed to employing the latest technologies and solutions across all stages of our operations to accelerate the adoption of innovative and sustainable practices. Our initiatives encourage individuals and institutions to contribute to sustainability and the circular economy by leveraging available channels to collect used cooking oil and convert it into environmentally friendly and sustainable biofuel.' He emphasized that this initiative benefits everyone by reducing the negative environmental impact of disposing of used oil as waste. Additionally, biofuel extracted from used oil is a more cost-effective alternative, and its increasing use in commercial transportation fleet is expected to help lower the cost of goods and products in the long run. Yousif Bin Saeed Lootah also highlighted that the smart app plays a key role in raising awareness about the importance of biofuels in reducing harmful emissions and greenhouse gases, combating climate change, and educating communities about waste reduction and recycling. Moreover, it will create job opportunities in fields such as oil collection, recycling, and biodiesel distribution. 'We will continue our efforts to facilitate community participation in the collection and transformation of used cooking oil into clean and cost-effective biofuel,' he added. Lootah Biofuels aims to the support increasing the recycling rate of used cooking oil in the UAE to over 80% in the coming years, amid growing awareness and a shift toward sustainable solutions. Currently, less than 50% of used cooking oil is recycled, with most of it coming from restaurants and the hospitality sector. Biodiesel produced by Lootah Biofuels from used cooking oil has the highest carbon reduction rate among all available feedstocks for biodiesel production.
