Advancing sustainability through VRF

The 9th edition of the Middle East Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Conference, held on 7 May 2025 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, underscored the significant role of VRF technology in the Kingdom’s ambitious sustainability drive, highlighting its integration with AI and the burgeoning field of autonomous buildings

Produced and organised by CPI Industry, publishers of Climate Control Middle East magazine since 2006, the 9th Edition highlighted crucial advancements and innovations in VRF systems, and explored their critical role in meeting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability objectives.

Surendar Balakrishnan, Editorial Director and Co-founder, CPI Industry, giving the Welcome Address, recalled one of the earlier VRF conferences, humorously noting how inadequate air conditioning at the venue ironically turned a discussion on VRFs into one on thermal comfort and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). In contrast to the earlier edition, Balakrishnan said, the 9th Edition advertently sought to emphasise the growing importance of IEQ, particularly Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and its integration with modern VRF technology.

Hassan Younes, Co-founder & Co-CEO, grfn global and Chairperson of the event, set the stage by highlighting the prominence VRF technology has gained since 2007-2008. Younes stressed the growing significance of refrigerant selection, noting ongoing debates about low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, such as R-32, and their implementation. He drew attention to critical considerations in safety, design, construction and regulatory frameworks necessary for the successful adoption of advanced VRF systems.

“VRF systems are at the heart of sustainable cooling strategies, providing precision, adaptability and energy efficiency essential to Saudi Arabia’s climatic challenges,” Younes said.

Ubaidullah Khaja Mohamed Siddiqui, Vice-Chairman, The Walk Investment Company, giving the Keynote Address, provided insights into the growing integration of AI and smart technologies in the built environment. Siddiqui highlighted the urgent need for sustainable cooling solutions to mitigate high energy consumption, especially as cooling demands are projected to triple. He emphasised Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goal of a 30% electricity cut by 2060, achievable through the adoption of smart building technologies, including VRF systems.

“AI-driven smart technologies are crucial for optimising energy use, enhancing operational efficiency and significantly reducing environmental impact,” Siddiqui said.

Subsequent to the address, Younes moderated a Plenary Discussion, featuring Anas Alfar of Hussain & Al Hassan G. Shaker Bros., Yazan Al Zyoud of Samsung Electronics and Markus Lattner of Eurovent Middle East. They discussed the regulatory landscape and its implications for VRF manufacturers. Alfar highlighted the transition from R-410A to R-32 refrigerants, driven by regulatory changes. Al Zyoud shared Samsung’s commitment to adopting AI-driven solutions for optimised VRF performance, emphasising real-time adjustments for increased efficiency. Lattner focused on upcoming regulatory changes across the GCC region, including the implications of the Kigali Amendment, stressing the importance of regional standards adapted to high-ambient conditions. He highlighted Eurovent’s efforts to develop training programmes to build local capacity and expertise, vital for the proper handling and installation of emerging refrigerant technologies.

Autonomous buildings constituted a major topic, championed by Salah Nezar of New Murabba, who underscored the synergy among VRF systems, AI and IoT for achieving zone-based cooling, real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance. Nezar emphasised Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in integrating these technologies, showcasing NEOM, The Red Sea Development and Qiddiya as pioneering examples.

“Integration of VRF technology with IoT and AI is not just futuristic – it’s already happening here in Saudi Arabia, shaping our smart cities,” Nezar remarked.

Bridging industry perspectives for collective growth

The conference notably catered to a diverse range of stakeholders. Regulators gained essential knowledge about the latest frameworks necessary for enforcing compliance and promoting energy efficiency. in alignment with Vision 2030. Contractors and consultants took away practical strategies for integrating advanced VRF systems with AI and IoT technologies, enhancing their project outcomes. Manufacturers received clarity on the evolving refrigerant landscape and insights into market-driven innovations, essential for product development. The event positioned itself by fostering targeted dialogues and actionable insights tailored specifically to the distinct needs of these key industry groups.

The 9th Middle East VRF Conference served as a vital platform, fostering dialogue among industry leaders, policymakers and technology experts, emphasizing the essential role of VRF technology in Saudi Arabia’s sustainable growth trajectory. As the Kingdom advances towards its Vision 2030 targets, VRF technology, bolstered by innovation and supportive regulations, is poised to play a central role in the region’s transformative journey towards a greener future.

“Saudi Arabia,” Younes said, “is not just adopting VRF technology; it is innovating and setting standards for global sustainability in HVAC solutions.”