Hydrocarbon Processing Refining Databook 2025: Middle East & Africa
The Middle East is focusing on modernisation and expansion projects, while Africa is seeking to reduce its imports of refined products
Middle Eastern refining capacity has increased by nearly 3m b/d over the past decade, reaching more than 11.6m b/d, according to the Energy Institute. Most refining investments over the past ten years were made to diversify domestic product portfolios and move away from relying on oil export revenues. The region continues to invest heavily in refining operations, focusing on additional refining capacity, modernisation and expansion projects and upgrades. The region will add nearly 1.2m b/d of new CDU capacity and 2m b/d of secondary unit capacity by 2030, according to OPEC. At the time of publication, the GEI database was tracking nearly 70 active refining projects in the region, totallin
Also in this section
28 April 2026
The key energy player faces balancing regional routes, political complexities, and creating a clear strategic vision for energy security
24 April 2026
The European Commission’s response to the Middle East crisis is to double down on its transition strategy, with plans for a new target on electrification
24 April 2026
A major new discovery by Eni and BP that can likely be fast-tracked to production is welcome news for Egypt as it scrambles to plug a widening supply gap and deal with rising import risks
24 April 2026
Countries in the region are turning to the cleaner-burning fuel for power generation, driving demand for imports






