The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) OzonAction Compliance Assistance Program (CAP) in West Asia and the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) held a joint workshop during HVACR World in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 24–27 November 2025. The event brought together National Ozone Unit (NOU) representatives, industry stakeholders, and international experts to discuss regional action on the refrigerant transition under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.
Titled “Navigating the Refrigerant Phase-Down: Codes, Compliance, and Roadmap for the GCC Region,” the workshop addressed policy alignment, safety standards, and technical readiness in advancing low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. It emphasized the need for coordinated regional strategies to support the transition to climate-friendly alternatives.
The workshop followed the AHRI Leadership Roundtable held on 24 November, where executives and stakeholders examined HVACR market trends, regulatory developments, and the role of standards and codes in supporting long-term alternative technologies. Insights from the roundtable guided the workshop’s technical sessions.
Participants discussed best practices for low-GWP refrigerants, industry readiness in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and the role of refrigerant recovery, recycling, and reclamation. AHRI and the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology Institute (AHRTI) also shared updates on research activities, including the 2026 Alternate Refrigerant Evaluation Program (AREP), which assesses safety and performance of next-generation refrigerants.
As part of the program, attendees joined the HVACR World Floor Tour to explore technologies and refrigerants showcased by leading manufacturers for the GCC market.
The workshop concluded with a commitment to enhancing regional cooperation, aligning national policies, and strengthening training and capacity-building to support the refrigerant transition across West Asia.