The project was announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a visit to the Gulf. 

Initially, Newcastle, Northumbria, Teesside, Durham and Cranfield universities will work with universities and research institutes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and industrial partners from both nations to accelerate progress towards Net Zero.

The initiative aims to educate the next generation of engineers, to develop research and create new businesses that will be key for achieving the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy resources.

A delegation from the universities is set to travel to Saudi in the coming months to progress the project.

The University partners said: “We welcome the government’s announcement of our intention to collaborate with partners in Saudi Arabia to create the Joint International Institute for Clean Hydrogen. 

“By working together to strengthen our international partnerships, our universities are providing the foundation for a research and innovation ecosystem that will put the UK at the forefront of the green energy agenda. This will benefit local communities, create jobs, provide a pipeline of skilled graduates and amplify the global reach of our research.”

A spokesperson for Newcastle University said: “This renewed government focus on sustainable energy aligns with our commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The opportunity to partner with Saudi universities builds on the success of their investment in Newcastle United, and our existing relationship with Princess Nourah University, which is based on the development of women in sport.”

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: "The North East is an academic and an engineering powerhouse which I am determined should become the home of the green energy revolution. I have worked alongside the Prime Minister to bring together universities in Saudi Arabia and the North East as we build the New Joint International Institute for Clean Hydrogen and I look forward and seek further green energy investment and opportunities for our region."