The Middle East is becoming increasingly interested in sustainability and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)

According to what Qirbi told media, there are many obstacles in the way of SAF's expansion in the Middle East. Since the area is so dry, there aren't many good places to grow food that could be used as feedstock.

Because "they don't grow anything," he continued, "the odds of taking plants and converting them into sustainable aviation fuel, this is a very restricted potential." In the few instances in which they do cultivate crops, it is to offset a negative contribution to their nation's food supply. All of these nations must rely on outside sources for their food supply. Qirbi said, "in terms of SAF being made in Africa and the Middle East, I think we are still some ways away from that happening," noting that there are regional variations.

However, according to World Fuel's vice president of European fuel supply for aviation and land, SAF is only a piece of the sustainability solution. There are multiple approaches that can be taken, and they need to complement one another.

One of World Fuel's specialists is speaking on a panel about the company's World Kinect sustainability product this week at MEBAA 2022.

Peter Stevens, vice president of global marketing for aviation and marine at the Miami-based fuel distributor, said, "Through our sustainability division, we truly take a comprehensive view of the carbon reduction challenge, of which SAF is a component of it." On the road to net-zero [carbon] emissions, a truly strong advising function is the first step, but we want, guide, and advise our clients to source renewable fuels.

Qirbi predicted that "carbon trading and offsets" would be the "initial stage" for the region. The conversation has begun, as we have already had talks with the various players involved.