Process for the preparation of alkylene glycol

The invention provides a process for the preparation of an alkylene glycol from an alkene. A gas composition from an alkylene oxide reactor is supplied to an alkylene oxide absorber comprising a column of vertically stacked trays or comprising a packed column. Lean absorbent comprising at least 20 wt % water is supplied to the alkylene oxide absorber and is contacted with the gas composition in the presence of one or more catalysts that promote carboxylation and hydrolysis. At least 50% of the alkylene oxide entering the alkylene oxide absorber is converted in the alkylene oxide absorber. Fat absorbent is withdrawn from the absorber, is optionally supplied to finishing reactors and/or a flash vessel or light ends stripper, and is subsequently subjected to dehydration and purification to provide a purified alkylene glycol product stream.