HVACR Next Generation Congress in Riyadh Highlights Industry Firsts and Market Growth
The second edition of the Middle East Industry Congress – HVACR Next Generation: Sustainability in Extreme Conditions was successfully held on 28 October 2025 at the InterContinental Durrat Al Riyadh Resort & Spa. Organised by Eurovent Middle East in cooperation with the Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA), the event brought together government officials, manufacturers, and industry stakeholders to discuss the region’s most pressing HVACR challenges and emerging opportunities.
The congress took place amid strong growth in the Gulf’s construction sector. According to Research and Markets, the GCC construction market—valued at SAR 666.76 billion in 2025—is projected to reach SAR 850.96 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR exceeding 5%. This surge is set to significantly increase demand for HVACR systems, particularly in a region where cooling consumes up to 80% of building energy and more than half of national energy use.
Focus on Sustainability and High-Ambient Performance
Delegates explored key topics including sustainability, energy efficiency, indoor air quality (IAQ), and the ongoing refrigerant transition. Markus Lattner, Managing Director of Eurovent Middle East, underscored the sector’s pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while addressing the region’s extreme climatic conditions. He noted that as temperatures continue to rise, the HVACR industry is increasingly central to balancing environmental goals with economic development.
Hassan Abou Jawhar, Director Europe and Middle East at AMCA, highlighted ongoing efforts to advance technical regulations and energy performance standards. He emphasised that collaboration between policymakers and industry players will accelerate the adoption of innovative cooling and ventilation technologies across the region.
Regional First: Launch of Desert Certification
One of the event’s major milestones was the unveiling of Desert Certification, the Middle East’s first high-ambient testing and performance certification tailored specifically to the region’s environmental challenges. The certification ensures HVACR products are validated under realistic, extreme-temperature conditions—addressing a long-standing gap in performance assessment.
The congress programme featured keynote presentations from global experts, along with panel discussions involving representatives from regulatory bodies and major organisations. Afternoon sessions focused on practical applications, showcasing next-generation technologies and case studies centred on IAQ improvements, energy efficiency, and the refrigerant transition in high-ambient markets.
