Cairo Watch 12 10 2026 Dr Mohamed Attalla

Summary

The program interviewed energy expert Dr. Mohamed Attalla about the International Energy Forum, scheduled to take place in Riyadh from October 11–15. Attalla described the forum as especially important amid tensions in the Middle East and Gulf. He said it offered an opportunity to highlight Saudi Arabia’s role in energy security and express Egypt’s support for Saudi Arabia.

Attalla argued that international dialogue could help address disruptions to oil and gas supplies and reduce price volatility, particularly as Europe’s winter demand for gas rises. He expected the forum to produce recommendations on oil, gas, and renewable energy.

Areas of cooperation

Attalla outlined two areas for Egyptian-Saudi and broader international cooperation:

• Oil and gas: Cooperation on transporting crude oil and petroleum products, including routes that could support exports to Europe. He also cited a memorandum of understanding covering the sharing of Egyptian experience in petroleum-product transportation and Saudi experience in exploration, including gas exploration.
• Renewable energy: Cooperation with Saudi Arabia and other participating countries to develop renewable-energy generation. Attalla said Egypt aims to reach 30 gigawatts of renewable-energy capacity by 2029.

Attalla said Egypt’s participation signaled its commitment to energy partnerships and to meeting its obligations to suppliers. He said Egypt imports more than 40% of its oil and petroleum-product needs and estimated that imports account for 40–50% of its gas demand.

The program also reported that Egyptian chemical and fertilizer exports to Saudi Arabia rose 98% year on year in the first eight months of 2026, reaching about $356 million, compared with $180 million in the same period of 2025. It identified Saudi Arabia as one of the leading markets for these Egyptian exports.

Presenters and contributors

• Program presenter: Unnamed host
• Dr. Mohamed (Muhammad) Attalla: Energy expert and interview guest