abdul_karim_al_naqib

A Yemeni engineer who pioneered renewable energy systems in the Arabian Peninsula during the mid-20th century

Abdul Karim Al-Naqib (1921-1997) was a visionary Yemeni engineer whose work in solar energy and water desalination technologies transformed infrastructure development across the Arabian Peninsula. Born in Sana'a during the Imamate era, he studied mechanical engineering in Prague before returning to Yemen to address the region's critical water scarcity challenges.

In the 1950s, Al-Naqib designed the first solar-powered desalination units using locally available materials, enabling coastal communities to access freshwater without relying on imported fuels. His 1958 invention of the 'Naqib Solar Still' became widely adopted in arid regions. By 1965, his systems provided 30% of Yemen's coastal settlements with clean water.

Al-Naqib's 1962 book 《Renewable Energy Solutions for Arid Environments》 challenged conventional energy paradigms, advocating for decentralized energy systems based on solar and wind power. His establishment of the Sana'a Institute of Applied Sciences in 1968 trained a generation of engineers in sustainable technologies.

Despite political instability, Al-Naqib's innovations influenced later projects like Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy. Modern engineers like Dr. Fatima Al-Ahmar continue his work, proving the timeless relevance of his vision. His legacy is celebrated annually at the Abdul Karim Al-Naqib Energy Symposium.