A team of innovators based at Dhahran Techno Valley Company (DTVC) and King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) has officially announced the validation of a scalable deep-tech solution designed to transform waste into fuel. BioEnergy Arabia, a startup led by a group of Indonesian PhD researchers, has developed a proprietary system that converts used cooking oil into high-quality biofuel, directly addressing environmental concerns regarding soil and water contamination while supporting the Kingdom’s circular economy goals.
Solar-Powered Microwave Reactors
The core of BioEnergy Arabia’s innovation lies in its unique processing method, which integrates solar energy to power a microwave reactor system. Developed under the supervision of the KFUPM Chemistry Department, specifically Prof. Abdulaziz Al-Saadi and Prof. Tawfik Saleh, the technology allows for a faster and more efficient conversion of waste oil into biodiesel compared to traditional methods. The founding team, comprising Nur Allif Fathurrahman, Listya Eka Anggraini, Anisa Helena Isma Putri, and Izzul Qudsi, designed the system to be technically advanced enough for industrial application yet simple enough to ensure widespread adoption across the GCC region.
Validating The Technology For Industry
Transitioning from academic research to tangible industrial application, the startup has successfully moved past the prototype phase. The team has subjected their biofuel product to rigorous field testing, successfully powering generators and concrete mixers. These tests have demonstrated the fuel’s consistent reliability and efficiency under operational conditions, signaling that the technology is ready for broader scaling. The development process involved extensive optimization of the processing unit to strengthen intellectual property and prepare for industrial pilot testing.
Strategic Growth And Ecosystem Recognition
The startup’s trajectory has been accelerated by a series of strategic wins within the Saudi entrepreneurial ecosystem. BioEnergy Arabia initially secured funding by placing third in the Renewable Energy Technical Incubator (RETI) competition. This success was followed by their selection as one of the Top-10 Innovators in the Deep Tech Ventures Program (DVP) by DTVC and KFUPM. Most recently, the team secured first place at the Engineering Shark Tank 2025, organized by the Center of Excellence in Energy Efficiency (CEEE). The startup also showcased its solution at Biban Global 2025, drawing interest from government agencies and investors, and receiving support from the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh for its contribution to cross-border educational and innovation synergy.
About BioEnergy Arabia
BioEnergy Arabia is a deep-tech startup incubated at Dhahran Techno Valley Company (DTVC) and affiliated with King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM). Founded by a team of researchers, the company specializes in waste-to-energy solutions, specifically focusing on technologies that convert used cooking oil into sustainable biofuel. The startup aims to provide practical, affordable renewable fuel solutions that align with national sustainability targets and the broader circular economy in the Middle East.
Source: Sharikat Mubasher
