Dr. Tareq Abu
Hamed
Director of the Arava Institute & ENERGY Researcher
Related topics
Research center
Education
BSc Chemical Engineering
Gazi University (Türkiye)
MSc Chemical Engineering
Gazi University (Türkiye)
PhD Chemical Engineering
Ankara University (Türkiye)
Post Doctorate Environmental Sciences and Energy Researche
The Weizmann Institute of Science (Israel)
Post Doctorate Mechanical Engineering: Solar Energy Lab
University of Minnesota (USA)
MA Public Policy
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (Israel)
About
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed is a researcher, environmental diplomat, and renewable energy expert whose work focuses on advancing sustainable energy solutions and fostering regional cooperation across the Middle East. His research explores the intersection of clean energy innovation, environmental policy, and cross-border collaboration, with a particular emphasis on addressing shared environmental challenges in politically complex contexts.
Since joining the Arava Institute in 2008, Tareq has played a pivotal role in expanding the Institute’s research and regional impact. He founded the establishing it as a platform for applied research, technology development, and regional partnership around renewable energy and sustainability.
Tareq’s academic background is in chemical engineering, with research spanning solar energy technologies, hydrogen production, energy systems, and environmental sustainability. His work has contributed to the development of innovative renewable energy solutions for arid and resource-constrained environments, helping advance the transition toward more sustainable energy systems in the region.
Beyond his scientific contributions, Tareq is internationally recognized for his leadership in environmental diplomacy. He works to build partnerships between researchers, policymakers, and communities across political divides, using science and environmental cooperation as tools for dialogue, trust-building, and regional resilience.
His contributions have earned international recognition, including the 2008 Dan David Prize, the 2021 One World Award and the 2024 American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy. He also co-chairs the Regional Cooperation and Security Task Force of President Isaac Herzog’s Climate Forum and has been recognized as one of the individuals shaping Israel’s future through innovation and leadership.
Through his research, public engagement, and regional partnerships, Tareq advances practical pathways toward a more sustainable, cooperative, and climate-resilient future for the Middle East.
Research Projects
Solar Thermal Technologies
The study contributes to the development of sustainable, low-cost heating technologies suitable for arid and off-grid environments.
AgriPV Applied Research
The project investigates agrivoltaic (AgriPV) systems—integrating photovoltaic energy generation with agricultural production—to advance sustainable, off-grid farming solutions in arid environments.