Transforming technological innovation into harmonious policy and sustainable impact
Long fascinated by technology and how it can transform lives, Ameena Al-Sumaiti leads the Smart Operations Lab at Khalifa University. A recognized thought leader in sustainable energy systems, she focuses on research that translates into actionable policy and commercially viable sustainable energy solutions for a cleaner and more resilient United Arab Emirates.
How did you join Khalifa University?
I began my academic journey as a research fellow at the University of Waterloo, in Canada, in 2008. In 2016, I joined the Masdar Institute as an assistant professor, focusing on sustainable energy planning and management, and continued this mission at Khalifa University following the institutional merger.
Why did you choose this field?
Since childhood, I have been fascinated by how things work and how every small detail connects to a greater purpose. I used to collect watches, mesmerized by how precisely each part moved in harmony to measure time; a reminder that progress depends on coordination, precision, and purpose. This early curiosity about mechanisms grew into a deeper fascination with how humans, technology and systems are interconnected; and how access to technology can transform lives.
What is the focus of the Smart Operation Lab that you lead?
We design intelligent and sustainable solutions for the cities and systems of the future; spanning intelligent transport, hydrogen, energy and water, smart homes and renewable energy. We also explore virtual power plants, electricity markets, carbon capture, carbon credits, techno-economic assessments of renewable energy, and policy and regulatory frameworks, ensuring that technology and governance evolve in harmony.
“We’re on the brink of redefining the integration of artificial intelligence, sustainable energy systems and digital infrastructure; moving beyond optimization toward full autonomous coordination across sectors.”
Ameena Al-Sumaiti
What do you find most exciting about your research?
Every challenge brings the satisfaction of discovery and sparks new ideas that emerge from each solution, keeping my work dynamic and focused on the future. I believe the impact of my research can extend beyond labs and publications; it can inform strategies, empower people, and inspire more inclusive and sustainable ways of thinking about tomorrow.
Describe your most significant findings.
My research shows that integrated, intelligent systems combined with innovative planning approaches can accelerate sustainable development and improve energy efficiency. By linking sectors such as energy, water, hydrogen and transport, within coordinated frameworks, I’ve shown how efficiency, resilience and decarbonization can be advanced; driving the transition toward cleaner and more secure resource networks.
One of the most meaningful outcomes of my work has been enhancing and enabling electricity access in developing countries and bridging the power gap. Access to reliable electricity is not only a technological goal but a foundation for social and economic empowerment.
What breakthroughs do you anticipate in the next decade?
The coming decade could be transformative for how societies produce, manage and utilize resources. We’re on the brink of redefining the integration of artificial intelligence, sustainable energy systems and digital infrastructure; moving beyond optimization toward full autonomous coordination across sectors.
AI-driven, self-learning systems could soon optimize operations across cities, industries, and supply chains with minimal human intervention. All the while, hydrogen technologies are maturing rapidly, with new methods for storage, distribution and use.
In parallel, smart homes, buildings and transport could evolve into self-regulating, interconnected ecosystems, where data from millions of devices informs real-time policy, market behavior and resource planning.
