Desert-Proof Air Conditioning: How LG Is Transforming the Middle East’s HVAC Market

LG Electronics’ Bold Move in the Desert HVAC Market

Did you know that LG Electronics is making waves in the Middle East by developing air conditioning systems that can withstand even the harshest desert climates? In June 2025, LG announced a groundbreaking partnership with King Saud University, Pusan National University, and Saudi Arabia’s Shaker Group to jointly research and develop HVAC technologies optimized for extreme heat and humidity. This collaboration is not just about selling more air conditioners—it’s about redefining what’s possible in environmental comfort and energy efficiency for regions where temperatures often soar above 50°C.
LG’s strategic vision is clear: by investing in real-world testing and academic partnerships, they aim to set new standards for both performance and sustainability in one of the world’s most challenging climates.

Inside the Collaboration: Who’s Who and What’s Happening

The partnership brings together some of the brightest minds and most influential organizations in HVAC innovation. LG Electronics leads the development of both commercial and residential air conditioning products. Shaker Group, a major player in the Saudi market, is responsible for installing and operating these systems in real-world settings. King Saud University and Pusan National University are tasked with creating rigorous test environments and analyzing operational data to verify the technologies’ effectiveness.
This isn’t just a one-off project. LG has a history of climate-specific R&D, having previously tackled cold-climate heat pump challenges in Alaska, Oslo, and Harbin. Now, the focus is on the unique demands of the Middle East, where both dry desert and humid tropical conditions test the limits of conventional HVAC systems.

AI at the Heart: The Multi V i and Its Smart Engine

At the core of LG’s latest push is the Multi V i, a Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system equipped with a cutting-edge AI engine. What makes this system stand out? The AI engine continuously analyzes factors like occupancy, humidity, and indoor/outdoor temperatures to optimize cooling and heating in real time. Features like AI Smart Care and AI Indoor Space Care ensure that only occupied areas are cooled, saving energy without sacrificing comfort. The system can even switch to power-saving mode when it detects no one is present.
According to internal tests, these innovations can reduce energy consumption by up to 24.7%. For regions where energy costs are high and environmental sustainability is a growing concern, this is a game-changer.

Real-World Testing: From the Lab to the Saudi Desert

How do you prove that an air conditioner can handle the Saudi desert? By putting it to the test—literally. LG’s approach involves installing their latest HVAC products in actual buildings across Saudi Arabia and collecting operational data under real-world conditions. Shaker Group manages installation and ongoing operation, while university researchers monitor and analyze performance. This data-driven approach allows for rapid improvements and customization, ensuring that each product is truly fit for purpose.
The Saudi test facility is the first of its kind for LG, dedicated exclusively to tropical and desert climates. The findings will be shared with regional academic societies and used to inform future product development, not just for the Middle East but for other hot regions worldwide.

Community Buzz: What Are Koreans Saying Online?

Curious about how people in Korea are reacting? Online communities like Theqoo, DC Inside, and Naver Cafe are buzzing with mixed opinions. Some users express pride in seeing a Korean company lead innovation in the Middle East, emphasizing the global competitiveness of LG’s technology. Others question whether such high-tech solutions will be affordable or accessible for ordinary consumers in the region. A few skeptics point out that local climate adaptation is key, and only time will tell if LG’s AI-powered systems can truly handle the extremes.
On Tistory and Naver blogs, tech enthusiasts are sharing deep dives into the Multi V i’s features, with many praising the potential for energy savings and smart automation. There’s also growing interest from overseas fans, especially those living in similarly hot climates, who are eager to see if these innovations will become available globally.

Cultural Context: Why the Middle East Matters for HVAC Innovation

For international readers, it’s important to understand why the Middle East is such a crucial market for HVAC companies. With rapid urbanization, population growth, and some of the world’s most extreme temperatures, the demand for reliable, efficient cooling is skyrocketing. Energy consumption for air conditioning is a major concern, both for economic and environmental reasons. Saudi Arabia, in particular, is investing heavily in sustainable infrastructure and climate resilience.
LG’s move is not just about business—it’s about contributing to broader goals of energy efficiency and climate adaptation. By partnering with local universities and companies, LG is also helping to build regional expertise and foster innovation ecosystems that could benefit the entire industry.

Looking Ahead: LG’s Vision for Global HVAC Leadership

LG isn’t stopping at the Middle East. The company’s broader strategy includes expanding its HVAC business to $14.6 billion in annual sales by 2030, with a focus on AI-driven solutions for both residential and industrial applications. Their ambitions extend to data centers, smart buildings, and even AI infrastructure, positioning LG as a global leader in next-generation climate control.
As the world faces rising temperatures and growing energy demands, innovations like the Multi V i and its AI engine could set the standard for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. For fans of Korean technology and anyone interested in the future of smart living, this is a story worth following.