Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia ranks 67th in this year’s CCPI, making it the lowest ranking country of all those surveyed.

It scores very low in all four CCPI index categories: Energy Use, Climate Policy, Renewable Energy, and GHG Emissions.

Saudi Arabia’s per capita greenhouse gas emissions are rising steadily. Its share of renewable energy in total primary energy supply (TPES) is close to zero and its target is too low, but the country is clearly starting to promote renewable energy projects. Saudi Arabia also has high energy consumption. It has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by around 2050.

Fossil fuel production is responsible for the majority of emissions

The Saudi Green Initiative adopted in 2021 includes a target of planting 10 billion trees by 2030. Thus far, the country has not addressed the fact that fossil fuel production is responsible for the majority of its emissions. In addition to investing in carbon capture and storage technologies, Saudi Arabia should seek to reduce its emissions by, for example, using its high potential for renewable energy production.

At the last COP in Egypt, Saudi Arabia played a notably unconstructive role in the negotiations. Its delegation included many fossil fuel lobbyists. It also tried to water down the language used in the COP’s umbrella decision.

Overall, the country’s policies, actions, and climate targets are not in line with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C limit.

Key Outcomes

  • Saudi Arabia ranks 67th in this year’s CCPI, making it the lowest ranking country of all those surveyed
  • The Saudi Green Initiative adopted in 2021 includes a target of planting 10 billion trees by 2030
  • Saudi Arabia should seek to reduce its emissions by, for example, using its high potential for renewable energy production

CCPI experts

National experts that contributed to the policy evaluation of this year’s CCPI chose to remain anonymous.

Key Indicators

CCPI 2024: Target comparison