The U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council hosted and sponsored a topical lunch discussion on U.S. energy and shale gas production during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC 2014) on Tuesday, November 11, in Abu Dhabi. Taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the auspices of the broader conference, the ‘U.S. Unconventionals’ luncheon included a moderated panel comprised of two keynote speakers and focused on the recent and rapid commercialization of large-scale shale gas production to support the United States’ growing role as a gas exporter. A large group of international energy executives and industry thought leaders were in attendance at the luncheon to hear from the panel of experts, including Mr. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Director of Strategy & Coordination at the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC).

Following welcome remarks by U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council president Danny Sebright, guests in attendance heard opening remarks by the Honorable Michael H. Corbin, U.S. Ambassador to the U.A.E. During his comments, Ambassador Corbin stressed the importance of the historic relationship shared between the two countries in energy production and the benefits that have emerged, particularly thanks to the U.A.E.’s commitment to safeguarding vital global energy shipping routes. He also highlighted the recent establishment of the U.S.-U.A.E. Strategic Energy Dialogue in June.

The guests were then greeted by moderator Gamal Hassan, CEO of the ADH Energy, who introduced the panel duo of distinguished experts: Atul Arya, Senior Vice President and Business Leader for Energy Insight at IHS; and Jeff Spath, Vice President of Industry Affairs at Schlumberger Ltd. and 2014 President of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). Hassan guided the discussion, which focused on the rapid growth in unconventional shale gas extraction in the early 21st century and the effects this fundamental change in the production may have on global markets. The experts also touched on the rising industry investment trend in the U.S. and how global energy companies can leverage the opportunities presented by the shale gas boom. Following the end of the formal discussion, Hassan moderated questions posed to the panel by guests in attendance.

“The U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council was proud to support this important discussion, “ said Sebright. “ADIPEC is a truly global platform for energy sector leaders to examine groundbreaking new trends in global production and consumption. Taking part in this international gathering of businessmen and women, thought leaders, and policymakers is an absolute must for industry players looking to achieve an unparalleled level of access and understand the importance of the energy sector to global prosperity.”

ADIPEC 2014, which took place from November 10-13, celebrated its 30th anniversary this year under the theme, “Challenges and Opportunities for the Next 30 Years.”

For more information about ADIPEC 2014, click HERE.