4 reasons to study renewable energy engineering in Saudi Arabia

Sponsored by University of Ha’il

The need for renewable energy resources and sustainable solutions has become a priority around the world.  

Universities are investing in teaching, training and equipping the next generation of engineering experts who want to work for a greener and more sustainable future. 

The Middle East is an attractive study destination if you are thinking of getting a degree in engineering and are interested in breaking into the renewable energy engineering field. 

Here are four reasons why you should consider studying renewable energy engineering in Saudi Arabia.  

Saudi Arabia aims to be a pioneer for renewable energy engineering in the Middle East  

Saudi Arabia and neighbouring GCC countries are rapidly moving towards renewable energy and are investing significantly in the field. By 2030, Saudi Arabia plans to generate 50 percent of its energy from renewables by reducing its dependency on oil and moving towards cleaner and more environmentally friendly energy resources. 

In fact, an innovative and strategic framework named Saudi Vision 2030, outlined by the Saudi government, aims to position the country as a global hub for international investments, renewable energy and the high-tech industry. 

Heavy investments in building revolutionary infrastructure designed to stimulate and foster innovation and growth are opening exciting opportunities for graduates across various industries including engineering.  

One prominent development is the NEOM futuristic city project in north-western Saudi Arabia which will be powered by renewable energy and become an international hub for cutting-edge science and technology research and applications.

Specialise in relevant renewable energy engineering issues  

The way the renewable energy works has become highly specialised. Energy companies are now having to find new renewable alternatives and change the way they operate while investing heavily in research and development in this area. 

Studying a relevant engineering degree can give you a significant advantage in the job market by allowing you to explore new subject areas that have evolved significantly in recent years. 

In the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2021, 21 Saudi universities ranked in the top 100 which sees the country emerging as a strong hub for higher education – especially in STEM subjects. 

The University of Ha’il which is located in northern Saudi Arabia is the only university in the country to offer a bachelor’s in renewable energy engineering and give students the chance to deep dive into the most crucial fields of renewable energy engineering.  

The renewable energy market is expected to generate almost 8,000 new graduate jobs by 2030 

Renewable energy companies are becoming big players in the energy market and are also becoming major employers for energy engineering graduates.  

From research and development to local and national government policy, finance to project management, to cater to this ever-growing energy engineering demand, both recruiters and employers in the sector are on the lookout for candidates who can deliver with the relevant skills, knowledge and expertise.  

Pursue a career that has a positive impact 

With the Middle East planning to expand its wind and solar renewables capacity 18-fold by 2025, the University of Ha’il has recognised the importance of preparing the next generation of renewable energy engineering experts who have the knowledge and skills required to work in such a fast-moving and dynamic field. 

With the increasing prospect of fossil fuels predicted to run out within the next 40-50 years, energy companies are having to branch out into renewable alternatives such as wind and solar energy.  

A career as a renewable energy engineer will put you at the forefront of this vital sector where you could find yourself collaborating with other engineers and scientists to develop efficient and functional energy systems which harness energy sustainably, efficiently and effectively.