sustainability in uae essay

Sustainability in the United Arab Emirates

The UAE has a proven track record in sustainable action underpinned by concrete targets and pioneering projects that are deeply rooted in the values of conservation, community and tradition.

The UAE Government has been implementing policies and practices to strengthen sustainable development at a local and global level.

Building on decades of progress, the country is taking collective action towards a sustainable future through a multitude of initiatives and achievements across a broad range of areas, from achieving net zero, to conservation efforts on land and at sea.

Founding Father’s Legacy

Building on the sustainable legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed.

Green Architecture

Some of the UAE’s most iconic buildings are also some of its most sustainable. Find out how.

Climate Makers

Meet members of the UAE community who are undertaking innovative climate and environmental initiatives to build a sustainable future.

Made Sustainable

Discover the homegrown businesses and products contributing to our sustainable future.

Sustainable Tourism

Operating a sustainable tourism model is crucial to the country’s future vision – and it benefits everyone.

The Reserve

Through collaborative initiatives and innovative solutions, the UAE is protecting its delicate and unique natural ecosystems.

Sustainability initiatives in the UAE are having a positive impact across areas ranging from the environment and clean energy to conservation and urban planning.

Road to Zero

The UAE is working across multiple fields to achieve net zero in line with its national targets.

With a coastline of approximately 1,320km, the UAE’s sustainable practices to protect its coastal and marine ecosystems are vital for its future.

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The year of sustainability: how uae is walking the talk, effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will. the uae’s leadership and efforts will, no doubt, inspire others all over the world to take effective action towards sustainability, by abdulla mohammed alriyami.

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Earlier this year, the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, had said, “Effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will”, and declared 2023 as the Year of Sustainability. The UAE, which is committed to achieving net zero by 2050, will host the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change — COP28 — in November this year, which will be a significant milestone in the UAE’s roadmap to building a more sustainable future.

This is also a good time to note that the UAE’s commitment to sustainability is not new but has been ingrained in its history and in the vision of its leadership for a long time. It was driven by UAE’s founding father, late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and this commitment remains a top goal for the current leadership.

Today, Abu Dhabi is home to several companies transitioning towards sustainable energy, including some of the world’s leading energy companies. We take a look at a few of them that are spearheading the change:

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has set out an ambitious sustainability and decarbonisation programme, which includes a target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 25 per cent by 2030. In March, Adnoc Gas IPO reflects its latest stock series to fund a transition from fossil fuels and bring more international investors and innovation towards reaching its 2030 target. Adnoc has also committed Dh55 billion to advance an array of projects across its diversified value chain by 2030. These projects will include investments in clean power, carbon capture and storage (CCS), further electrification of its operations, energy efficiency, and new measures to build on the company’s long-standing policy of zero routine gas flaring. Additionally, Adnoc has launched the Abu Dhabi Hydrogen Alliance, which aims to establish Abu Dhabi as a leader in the emerging hydrogen economy.

Masdar is a renewable energy company that has developed several large-scale projects in the UAE and abroad — including the Noor Abu Dhabi solar project. The company also develops innovative renewable energy technologies and invests in sustainable transportation solutions. Masdar is playing a role in endorsing the UAE’s hosting of the COP28; plus, it has inaugurated the Baynouna Solar Park in Jordan, which will produce enough energy annually to power 160,000 homes, making it Jordan’s largest clean energy project, displacing 360,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and supporting the global energy transition. One of the major focus areas of the upcoming COP28 is providing practical energy security solutions while reducing emissions; in February, Masdar demonstrated its continuing commitment to energy transition and support by entering the geothermal energy sector through a strategic investment in Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE), one of the world’s most prominent geothermal players.

On 2 March 2023, Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) announced it had met 80 per cent of its total power demand using renewable and clean energy from its solar and nuclear plants. As a result, EWEC forecasts a 50 per cent reduction inof carbon emissions — from more than 40 million tonnes in 2020 to approximately 20 million tonnes by 2025.

Abu Dhabi Power Corporation (ADPower) aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its generation mix to 50 per cent by 2030. The company is developing large-scale solar and wind energy projects in the UAE and has signed agreements to establish several renewable energy projects nationwide. Additionally, these companies demonstrate Abu Dhabi’s commitment to transitioning towards sustainable energy and reducing the country’s carbon footprint.

Ahead of COP28, the UAE’s significant commitment to achieving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions is impressive. Investing in clean power, carbon capture and storage, and energy efficiency will contribute to a more sustainable future. And the commitment to reducing gas flaring and using renewable energy sources — like solar and geothermal power — are significant steps in the right direction. It’s also inspiring to see that the UAE is actively supporting and promoting the hosting of COP28, which will provide a platform for world leaders to discuss practical energy security solutions and reduce global emissions. I agree with His Highness that effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will. The UAE’s leadership and efforts will, no doubt, inspire others all over the world to take effective action towards sustainability.

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The UAE has been a first mover on sustainability

Although the term didn't enter our discourse until the 1980s, it has always been at the heart of the country's development plans.

The Cop28 UAE logo during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in January. The Emirates is well-placed to drive consensus on finding practical solutions to slash emissions. Reuters

In the late 1790s, the English scholar and economist Thomas Malthus published an essay warning that population and economic growth will outstrip the resources available to humankind, leaving us vulnerable to a resource-strapped future where quality of life will be compromised due to rising commodity costs and fewer resources.

It’s one of the first written instances of the importance of sustainable economic development. But it wasn’t until the 1980s that the term “sustainability” entered the discourse of business. This was the same decade that former Norwegian prime minister, and 2016 Zayed Sustainability Prize Lifetime Award winner, Gro Harlem Brundtland helped elevate societal awareness of sustainable development through her report, Our Common Future . It was another decade before sustainability became entrenched in the tenets of corporate social responsibility.

It wasn’t until 2015 that the UN Sustainable Development Goals were adopted, with language reminiscent of that seminal 1798 Malthusian essay, to “provide a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future”.

In 2023, thanks to the trailblazing work of those who set the course to mainstream sustainability, the concept has become integral to everyday life. From an ever-more conscious civil society to governments responsible for planning the long-term prosperity of their citizens, we are all thinking of ways we can meet the needs of today, without compromising the capacities of future generations to thrive.

The UAE has always put sustainability at the heart of its development plans . It is fitting then, that with Cop28 to be hosted in the Emirates later this year, the country’s leadership announced 2023 as the Year of Sustainability.

A first mover on bold climate action and sustainability, the UAE has always been, and continues to be optimistic about the opportunity we have to build a better, more secure and more prosperous world. In the words of UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan : “The preservation of our planet is not only a moral duty, but also an economic necessity.”

The significance of hosting Cop28 in the UAE, in the Year of Sustainability, cannot be overstated. As a responsible and trusted international partner to countries across the world, the UAE is well-placed to drive consensus on delivering practical solutions to slash emissions and ensure 1.5°C remains within reach by 2030.

Announcing the theme for 2023, President Sheikh Mohamed said: “Effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will. As host of Cop28, we are committed to fulfilling our role as a global convener and will continue to support action and innovation in the field of sustainability.”

As the first country in the Middle East to sign and ratify the Paris Agreement, and the first in the region to announce a Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, the UAE is in an ideal position to deliver on Sheikh Mohamed’s vision for an innovative, collaborative approach to sustainable development.

That includes overseeing an inclusive, transparent and accountable Cop process that engages the public and private sectors, NGOs, young people and civil society. It also requires the scaling of climate finance and driving international financial reform.

By showcasing our success stories, and facilitating knowledge and technology transfers, the UAE is working to deliver an effective Cop process that builds trust in multilateral systems, drives meaningful outcomes and delivers realistic solutions that support the transition to net zero emissions by the middle of the century.

Hosting Cop28 at the Expo 2020 Dubai site will also build on the event’s sustainable legacy. The buildings and facilities used to “connect minds and create the future”, will now be repurposed to house the world’s most important annual climate change meeting, once again highlighting the guiding principles of sustainability that the UAE prioritises.

Driving a just and inclusive energy transition remains an integral aspect of the UAE’s sustainability drive – this year and beyond. On this point, the UAE’s long-standing collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency will remain crucial.

The UAE’s investments in renewable energy projects, both domestically and across the world, speak for themselves.

Building on a track record of almost two decades of climate innovation to drive sustainable economic growth, the UAE is now home to three of the largest and lowest-cost solar plants in the world, the first country in the region to deploy industrial-scale carbon capture technology, the first to deploy zero emission nuclear energy and a pioneer in new zero-carbon energies such as hydrogen.

Further, the UAE’s role as a global bridge-builder between nations, has led to investments of more than $50 billion in clean energy projects in six continents, including 70 nations – 27 of which are climate-vulnerable island nations.

Beyond renewables, the UAE is actively involved in key sustainability initiatives with Irena that span education, decarbonising industry and clean cooking. The wide range of projects and initiatives we are working upon hand-in-hand with the international community to deliver to all communities, especially those in climate hotspots, demonstrates the holistic, whole-of-society approach the UAE takes to sustainability.

It’s an approach that we will see on full display throughout 2023, and beyond, as we help the world transition to a cleaner, greener, more sustainable future.

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UAE President announces 2023 as ‘Year of Sustainability'

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced that 2023 will be the “Year of Sustainability”.

The "Year of Sustainability" will include several initiatives, activities and events that draw upon the UAE's deep-rooted values of sustainability and the legacy of its founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It will also focus on environmental sustainability by inspiring collective action through a nationwide commitment towards sustainable practices, in line with the UAE’s national strategy, bringing together everyone who calls the UAE home to work towards a prosperous future.

The year also aims to showcase the UAE’s commitment towards fostering a global collaboration in seeking innovative solutions to challenges, such as energy, climate change and other pressing issues related to sustainability.

The year-long initiatives are overseen by H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; and H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said, “Sustainability has been a fundamental principle in the United Arab Emirates since its unification. The nation continues to serve as an exceptional model for environmental conservation and resource management. The late Sheikh Zayed was a global leader in environmental and climate action, leaving behind a legacy that we continue to follow today.”

His Highness added, "Today for Tomorrow embodies the UAE's approach and commitment to sustainability and its responsibility to protect the future. By working, making efforts and initiating actions today, we are ensuring that we leave behind a legacy of stewardship for future generations, just as our ancestors did for us.”

His Highness also emphasised that the Year of Sustainability has particular significance as the UAE prepares to host the 28th United Nations climate change summit, Conference of Parties (COP28). He stated that the UAE is determined for COP28 to set a precedent in the collective global efforts to address climate change.

His Highness also invited community members and institutions to engage with the initiatives and activities of the Year of Sustainability and come together in collective efforts that lead the nation towards a more sustainable future.

The "Year of Sustainability" solidifies the UAE's commitment in addressing current challenges and promoting sustainable practices at an individual and community level. Notable examples include the "Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative", which details the country's commitment to promote environmental protection, and its efforts to create thriving communities ideal for living and working.

The announcement comes following the successful conclusion of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023, which saw the participation of numerous state leaders and officials worldwide. This further cements the UAE's position as a leader in promoting sustainability awareness both domestically and internationally and reinforces its commitment to tackling the challenges associated with it.

The UAE has long been a leader in promoting clean energy and building effective partnerships for the benefit of the global community. One notable partnership is The UAE-US Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE), which will catalyse US$100 billion in financing and other support in addition to deploying 100 new gigawatts (GW) of clean energy in the US, UAE and emerging economies around the world by 2035.

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1 Introduction

2 buildings are the key, 3 the uae vision 2021, 4 improving the air quality, 5 preserving water resources, 6 energy management and contribution of clean energy, 7 implementing green growth plans, 8 strategic objectives for uae regulations, 9 smart cities, 10 building efficiency, 11 detailed regulations and frameworks, 12 implementations, 13 conclusion.

• List of figures

Review Article

Dubai, the sustainable, smart city

Riadh AL-Dabbagh *

Ajman University, Ajman, UAE

* e-mail: [email protected]

Received: 15 July 2021 Received in final form: 21 October 2021 Accepted: 21 October 2021

Over the years, Dubai − UAE has achieved undoubtedly fascinating development in city styles and construction. The desert has been transferred to an advanced modern city with the tallest buildings in a considerable time. It has always encouraged achieving healthy and sustainable development in all sectors, explicitly building construction. It has and still working towards maintaining the balance between socio-economic development and environmental protection. It has been announced and put within the national vision that it is of priority for the Government to transform Dubai into a smart city with an eco-friendly economy. This is under the aim to make it the most sustainable city in the world by 2021. The other Emirates are also trying to build their own fully sustainable cities. A sustainable plan is “a building that reduces its environmental impact by decreasing energy and water use and reducing the waste production. Dubai's Green Building Regulations and Specifications encourage all contractors to build toward an eco-friendlier tomorrow, maintaining the future cohorts without negatively impacting the resident's health. It covers a wide range of topics related to green building design, including ecology planning, building vitality, resource efficiency in energy, water, materials, and waste management. Dubai has made the environment a part of its overall strategic plan, including many sub-plans, initiatives, and projects to improve the emirate's environmental conditions and reduce energy use. Dubai's strategic plan to become a green metropolis includes green buildings and green building materials. The difficulties that sustainable urban development presents are considerable. They are working on various techniques to lead today's urbanisation toward sustainability, including urban planning, transportation infrastructure, quality of life, and renewable energy use, to name a few. Green construction and green towns are part of a long-term national drive in the UAE to promote a green economy with the tagline “A green economy for sustainable development”. This paper is highlighting the advanced initiatives, technologies, materials, strategies, difficulties and challenges that Dubai has been through to achieve sustainable smart city goals.

© R. AL-Dabbagh, Published by EDP Sciences, 2021

The Green Buildings Regulations and Specification were declared required for governmental buildings in January 2011 and voluntary for private ones. The municipality made the standards mandatory for all new buildings in Dubai in March 2014, after 44 green governmental buildings had been built. The green buildings regulations and specifications address different aspects of green building design, such as ecology and planning, building vitality, energy, water, materials and waste [ 1 ].

By looking at end-use categories for energy, cleaner buildings and vehicle technologies must be focused on. In both cases, it is, of course, a choice between systems using carbon fuels and systems using clean electricity. Very simply, we need clean tech buildings, clean tech vehicles and clean electricity generation. Promoting these three should be seen as most important when we ask, What should we do? [ 2 ].

The most proven non-carbon ways to generate electricity are solar energy, hydro generation and wind turbines. Equally important is conservation, using less energy while still heating and cooling buildings and keeping the lights on. As the world population grows, it may seem impossible to conserve energy, but we can adopt green building technologies [ 3 ].

This study is to explore the main factors that have contributed to the initiatives and practices implemented by Dubai for their journey toward a Sustainable and smart city.

Buildings produce more emissions than any other source, accounting for over half of our total energy consumption. They also have the potential to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of change daily. Our ability to overcome the challenges that our world faces. The only human shelter will contribute more than any other project to the psychosocial impetus now required to change our collective direction toward a better tomorrow. Figure 1 shows the type of buildings developed in Dubai [ 4 ].

Improving the air quality

Preserving water resources

Increasing the contribution of clean energy

Implementing green growth plans.

In cooperation with the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Dubai, Dubai Municipality released the Dubai Air Quality Strategy 2017–2021. The approach aims to meet the National Agenda and Dubai Plan 2021 air quality targets ( Fig. 2 ) [ 1 ].

Creating a national air emissions inventory will give meaningful, current, and comprehensive data on pollutant emissions. Maintaining an accurate, trustworthy, and extensive list is critical for informing future air quality control programmes. One of the aims of the vision 2021 of the UAE is to improve air quality, with the National Agenda aiming to raise air quality in the UAE to 90% by 2021.

The project will be implemented in two phases in conjunction with the Global Green Growth Institute, GGGI. In the first phase, best practices and stakeholder consensus will be used to build a framework for an air emissions inventory for the UAE. The second phase will focus on developing a comprehensive national list that covers all central point, line, and area sources. Air Quality Index (AQI) is an artificial intelligence-based tool that monitors and analyses air quality in the UAE. The National Air Quality Platform uses the (AQI) platform to show information on air pollution.

Water is necessary for all life forms and is utilised for various functions in daily life and drinking. DEWA works relentlessly to increase its overall water production capacity, foresee future requirements and needs, and assure long-term sustainability to realise the wise leadership's vision. DEWA has established six focal areas in its water management strategy to increase the efficiency of water operations, correctly monitor water supplies, and reduce water losses [ 2 ], as in Figure 3 .

An indicator monitors freshwater usage (including surface water, renewable water, and fossil water) as a percentage of overall renewable water in the UAE to assess water overuse. Desalination and wastewater treatment are weighted in the final result. Water Sustainability indicators were initiated. DEWA is committed to the efficient, effective, and cost-effective management of water resources through a set of rules and regulations as a leading sustainable creative global water corporation. The policies and regulations aim to promote sustainability concepts throughout the business performance, including water generation, transmission, and distribution. Continue to monitor and manage the most efficient use of its water resources by maintaining an innovative DEWA that adheres to a set of policies and regulations, which include, but are not limited to, the W&C Asset Management Mechanism, the Electricity and Water Supply Policy, the Jebel Ali Power Station (JAPS) potable water specification, the GSO 149/2014 drinking water guidelines (Standardization Organization for GCC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) [ 2 ].

The UAE government aspires to strike a perfect balance between economic and social development by ensuring sustainable development while protecting the environment. DEWA's management strategy includes a commitment to guaranteeing the consistency of its electrical supply throughout Dubai. DEWA is investing in new technology, using international best practices, and continually enhancing its electricity generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure to ensure this [ 2 ]. Energy issues are among the most serious and complex concerns that the world faces today. As part of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, the UN has designated them “cheap and clean energy”. To accomplish Dubai's sustainable growth, the UAE is trying to enhance the renewable and clean energy industry, reduce natural resource use, and identify alternate energy sources to traditional energy sources. This is why, in conjunction with the UAE Centennial 2071, UAE Vision 2021, and UAE Green Agenda, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 was launched to provide 75% of Dubai's total power output from clean energy by 2050 and make Dubai the city with the lowest carbon footprint in the world [ 2 ]. Diversifying the energy mix minimises reliance on a single energy source, improving energy security while increasing the overall amount of power generated from clean energy sources to meet the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, as shown in Figure 4 [ 2 ].

The UAE aspires to become a worldwide centre and a successful model of the new green economy in order to improve the country's competitiveness and long-term development while also protecting the environment for future generations. The UAE Vision 2021 and the Federal Government's strategic plans have placed a strong emphasis on the economy as a major tool for achieving the aim of becoming one of the world's best places to live by 2021.

UAE aims to showcase the country's major achievements and approach in transforming into a green economy, diversifying economy and energy sources and integrating environmental aspects within all development plans. Green buildings, Figures 5 and 6 are the major approach.

Dubai's Government is aiming to make it the happiest city in the world and UAE has installed computerised “happy metres” to evaluate citizens', residents', and visitors' moods, mainly when they interact with Dubai government services as shown in Figure 7 [ 6 ].

8.1 Reduce the UAE's environmental footprint

The UAE's ecological footprint decreased to 7.75 hectares per person last year, down from 11.68 hectares in 2006. The fall was due to the country's acceptance of the Ecological Footprint project, which increased environmental sustainability. After Switzerland and Japan, the UAE is the third country in the world to do so. Five countries — China, the United States, India, Brazil, and Russia − account for 47.2 percent of the world's ecological footprint, according to the 2014 Living Planet Report. Even though UAE urbanisation results in increased carbon emissions and a larger ecological footprint, initiatives to promote a greener economy and environmental policies have helped to improve the situation. The UAE has established requirements to ensure that lighting products imported into the country are energy-efficient, particularly for the housing sector, accounting for 57% of the country's environmental imprint. The Government also intends to set fuel and vehicle standards in order to cut carbon emissions. Figure 8 shows the UAE ecological footprint.

8.2 Electrical consumption to be reduced by 20%

The UAE is aiming to reduce energy consumption by 20% by 2020 as part of an energy-efficient building project. “Buildings use 70% of the energy that the country produces”, says the UAE. “To get the country green, that needs to target the biggest consumer − the buildings, whether residential or commercial”. The Supreme Council of Energy, Electricity, and Water Authority began an initiative in 2008 dubbed the green building project to improve the programme's efficiency. All government buildings were required to follow the programme starting in 2011. However, it expanded this year, requiring all new structures to be energy-efficient [ 7 ]. A holistic approach for energy efficiency in buildings is shown in Figure 9 [ 8 ].

The total electricity consumption and residential percentage of total consumption is shown in Figure 10 [ 9 ].

8.3 Water consumption to be reduced by 18%

Last year, the Federal Electricity and Water Authority (Fewa) saved 53.44 million gallons of water. The 18% drop in consumption compared to 2014 resulted from a statewide conservation contest that saw homemakers, schools, and mosques compete for the prize. Schools led the way, saving up to 35.34 million gallons of water, or a 25% reduction compared to 2014 use. Mosques came in second, saving 10.04 million gallons of water, or an 18% reduction compared to 2014 usage. “Housewives came in third place with 8.1 million gallons of water saved, representing a 9% reduction in consumption compared to 2014”. “The Eastern region (B) led the country in rationing with 13.42 million gallons of water saved, representing a 30% reduction in consumption than 2014”. However, the Western area (A) was able to save 16.71 million gallons of water, which was a 22 percent reduction compared to 2014. The Ministry of Justice in Sharjah, represented by Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Diba Al Hisn, saved 584,186 gallons of water, while the Ministry of Interior in Fujairah saved 188,380 gallons. The Emirates Conservation Award aims to promote water and electricity conservation and instil rationing ideals in future generations. It is available to people of all nationalities. The list is extensive. The Emirates Conservation Award aims to promote water and electricity conservation and instil rationing ideals in future generations. It is available to people of all nationalities. Emiratis, Arabs, and Asians were among the winners. “The aim for conservation was 12%, but some families were able to reduce consumption by up to 60% and even 80%”. Fewa had already deployed 25,000 water-saving devices in partnership with strategic partners. The honour, There were 2810 residential participants in the first edition of the Emirates Conservation Award, comprising 506 Emiratis and 2304 expats, but only 1124 were certified. There were 18 homemakers on the list of top winners, three from each of the six regions engaged in the competition [ 7 ]. Strategies, policies and activities were enabled, Figure 11 [ 10 ].

In 2014, 85 percent of the UAE's population lived in urban areas, making it one of the world's most urbanised countries. According to the United Nations, the UAE's urban population will continue to expand and account for 91 percent of the country's population by 2050. As a result, any urban master plan in the UAE must include integrated infrastructure planning. Smart cities allow city planners to improve efficiency at the intersection of different infrastructure sectors [ 9 ].

In 2014, 85 percent of the UAE's population resided in urban regions, making it one of the world's most urbanised countries. The urban population is expected to increase further, reaching 91 million people by 2050. The so-called smart city method may be the greatest way to do this, as it takes advantage of digitalisation and the Big Data generated by metropolitan populations. Although there is no legal definition for the phrase “smart city”, it usually refers to integrated infrastructure planning that incorporates digital technologies to improve services and, more importantly for the UAE, cut energy usage.

The transition to smart cities is still in its infancy. The overall relationship between better urban design and the overall sustainability benefit of those projects has yet to be determined. In order to make the shift to smart cities, it is necessary to overcome inertia caused by ingrained habits, whether in terms of urban planning or citizen behaviour. It also necessitates creating and implementing consistent government policies to address the complex changes that smart cities bring about. Despite this, there is widespread agreement that smart cities will increase energy efficiency [ 9 ].

Smart cities enable city planners and managers to increase efficiency at the junction of many infrastructure sectors, such as energy, water, transportation, telecommunications, cooling, and waste, by taking a more holistic approach. Because of these benefits, the number of smart cities is expected to treble globally by 2025 [ 9 ].

The number of smart cities will more than treble over the next decade (forecast totals) Figure 12 .

Smarter urban electricity networks provide the advantage of monitoring usage over time and so encouraging more efficient consumption patterns that result in large reductions in use. For example, in Abu Dhabi, electricity demand has been increasing at a rate of more than 10% per year, well outpacing the emirate's extraordinary annual population growth rate of 9%.

As a result, the Abu Dhabi government has implemented an advanced metering system with various features and tariffs to encourage users to cut their consumption or transfer it to off-peak hours. Similarly, Dubai has implemented several related projects to significantly reduce electricity use, including smart metering, demand-side management, and distributed generation to encourage energy customers to consume more effectively (which involves generating energy on-site to reduce transmission losses).

These methods saved about 1,100 gigawatt-hours of electricity and 5.4 billion gallons of water between 2009 and 2014 and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 536,000 tonnes.

Another key part of smart cities is transportation, which has seen significant technological advancements. The UAE is promoting the usage of electric vehicles and developing the infrastructure needed to support them. The country now has 16 electric vehicle charging stations in situ, with more than 100 expected by the end of 2015. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, are only a minor part of the solution.

To fulfil the transportation needs of a growing urban population, the UAE must address more significant issues such as improving the fuel efficiency and emissions of imported automobiles, persuading citizens that they may not need a car, and reducing reliance on cheap gasoline.

As a result, public awareness initiatives should be included as part of a smart city programme, as they are a gentler way of influencing citizens' behaviour. Budgets for such efforts have already been set up in the UAE. The Emirates Energy Award, for example, was established by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and offered monetary prizes for outstanding work in public and private sector projects of various kinds.

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has also sponsored customer awareness programmes, which have convinced households and businesses to turn up the temperature on their air conditioners. Since 2009, DEWA's campaign has saved a total of more than 600 million AED (US$163 million) [ 9 ].

Building efficiency, sometimes known as “green” or “sustainable” building, refers to structures designed and constructed with energy efficiency as a primary design constraint. Buildings have a considerable contribution to CO 2 emissions, Figure 13 . The idea is to lessen buildings' environmental effects while also improving the well-being of their tenants.

A variety of building efficiency measures are already in place in the UAE. For example, in Abu Dhabi, a programme called Estidama (the Arabic word for sustainability) oversees building design, construction, and operation through a series of approvals. Estidama also has a rating system known as the “Pearl Rating System”, which assesses the sustainability of villas, buildings, and communities. The Government of Dubai has created green building standards and criteria that address planning, resource use, material selection, and waste disposal.

The standards, in particular, are designed to improve the sustainability performance of buildings across their entire life cycles, from design to construction, operation, and eventual demolition.

More specific policies and procedures governing energy efficiency in buildings will need to be developed by government bodies across the UAE.

More specific norms and procedures governing energy efficiency in buildings, particularly during construction, will need to be developed by government bodies across the UAE. These regulations can take a variety of forms, including requiring advanced modelling and simulations to predict the energy consumption footprint before construction (a tool known as building information modelling); requires advanced modelling and simulations to anticipate the energy consumption footprint prior to construction; and mandating procurement methods that consider the entire life-cycle cost rather than simply the initial construction cost [ 11 ]. (a tool known as building information modelling). Furthermore, district cooling has the potential to improve the energy efficiency of UAE urban areas significantly. 4 Building cooling currently accounts for over 70% of the GCC's peak electricity demand. District cooling is a network-based technology that employs centralised infrastructure to cool numerous buildings at the same time. This method is substantially more efficient than the current approach to air conditioning because it pools the demand for colder air. Increased utilisation of district cooling would alleviate the cooling load's impact on overall energy consumption. Various regulatory authorities in the United Arab Emirates are looking into ways to mandate and control district cooling, and the technology should be addressed in any new urban design idea [ 12 ]. Points that drive energy efficiency in buildings are shown in Figure 14 .

Improved marketing and awareness efforts are also required to urge real estate developers to increase the energy efficiency of their projects without the need for legislation. Such campaigns can, for example, highlight the efficiency benefits of new technologies, designs, and materials, evaluate building performance among similar buildings and grant energy performance certificates with incentives for builders [ 9 ].

Finally, the Government should promote the adoption of cutting-edge building materials, technologies, and systems. Advanced concrete mixes, wall insulation, glass glazing, and coatings tailored to the region's needs would significantly increase building efficiency. These materials are already in use in other markets because they improve building efficiency immediately after installation. During the design and construction of new projects, the UAE government should ensure that certain materials are considered — or required — by the Government. Even after construction is completed, projects can still benefit from increased energy efficiency thanks to tools like advanced building automation, integrated applications, and monitoring and reporting, which raise energy awareness among occupants and facility managers while drastically reducing consumption. Figure 15 presents the footprint demand by sector. In 2019, about 14 million tonnes of emissions were removed, reducing 22% compared to the previous year. The results attained exceeded the goals set forth in the Dubai Carbon Abatement Strategy, which calls for a 16 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2021 [ 13 ].

Although BIM has been used in the UAE for many years, its use in municipal projects is still quite limited. There are initiatives in place, such as the Dubai Municipality's mandate to use BIM for high-capacity projects. However, adoption remains low in projects, particularly at the municipal level. The study shows that stakeholders are aware of BIM, but that adoption is restricted. The survey also revealed that the perceived BIM use occurs primarily during the design stage. Furthermore, it is noted that while technological preparedness exists in the study environment, people and processes do not [ 14 ]. Moreover, District Cooling, which was first used in Dubai in 1999, provides several advantages over traditional cooling systems, including being more ecologically friendly and efficient. District cooling decreases the temperature of the air entering through the air-conditioning unit by pumping chilled water from a central facility to buildings and villa complexes through underground insulated pipes. District cooling in Dubai seeks to cut power usage and be more energy-efficient through this procedure [ 15 ]. Expo 2020 will be held in Dubai's South District. Expo 2020 has several topics, one of which is sustainability. Expo will consume half of its electricity during the event from 100% renewable sources, half of which will be generated on-site. The great majority of the materials used in permanent site development will be re-used in infrastructure projects [ 16 ].

This paper explores the facts on how Dubai has always encouraged achieving healthy and sustainable development in all sectors, explicitly building construction. It has worked to preserve a balance between socioeconomic development and environmental protection, and it continues to do so. Initiatives have been announced and included in the national vision, which states that the government's top aim is to develop Dubai into a smart city with an environmentally friendly economy. This is part of a plan to make it the world's most sustainable metropolis by 2021. The innovative initiatives, technologies, materials, tactics, obstacles, and challenges that Dubai has faced in achieving sustainable smart city goals are also highlighted in this article. Green buildings and renewable energy systems are two examples of options that could significantly reduce carbon emissions. Building energy efficiency assessments are an essential tool for ensuring that proposed strategies have the intended consequences. It has been determined that the UAE is working on a good programme to reduce its carbon footprint. Energy efficiency was not a pressing concern in the UAE for decades due to the abundance of widely accessible hydrocarbon resources. However, opinions have shifted as a result of sustained population and economic expansion. Sustainability is a vital issue today, and it is becoming more serious by the year. The moment has come for the UAE government to step in and help the country build a more sustainable future. The UAE can ensure that it serves the demands of its inhabitants while also conserving the environment for future generations by using other countries' experiences and focusing on the priorities highlighted in this paper.

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Cite this article as : Riadh AL-Dabbagh, Dubai, the sustainable, smart city, Renew. Energy Environ. Sustain. 7 , 3 (2022)

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Countries Around the World Have Adopted…

Sustainable development goals (sdgs).

The United Nations General Assembly adopted the sustainable development goals agenda in 2015, to be achieved by the year 2030. It constitutes a roadmap for achieving a better and more sustainable future, with the goals comprising 17 interconnected SDGs representing an integral part of a UN resolution entitled the “International Agenda 2030”. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals include four major themes -- environmental, social, economic and partnerships.  The unique facet of this agenda is that it is the very first agreement of 193 member countries of the UN, together with hundreds of thousands of stakeholders to achieve one long-term vision for the future. The SDGs serve as an extensive road map and a large-scale agenda requiring close collaboration of the public and private sectors, including the entire community to develop and implement strategies that enhance the quality of life in a sustainable approach. It also provides specific targets and indicators for all member states to incorporate in their national action plans while giving emphasis on the environmental challenges that the world is experiencing. The UAE has made these goals a fundamental part of its vision and future ambitions, making them an essential element of its 2030 agenda. The country has committed itself to “not leaving anyone behind.” The sustainable development goals have been incorporated in the development strategies of the UAE. The National Committee on SDGs was established in 2017, with the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and 15 government entities at the federal level as its members. They share responsibility for implementing the sustainable development goals at the national level, monitoring progress on the goals, engaging relevant stakeholders, and submitting periodic reports on the country’s achievements, in addition to building a comprehensive action plan and ensuring that these goals are aligned with the UAE’s national development priorities and the UAE Vision 2021.

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The role of the ministry of economy in achieving the uae’s strategic development goals.

In the face of challenges that the world encounters, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic recession, and climate change, the Ministry of Economy recognises the need to achieve sustainable development and develop integrated measures to fulfil economic, social and environmental objectives. The Ministry has focused its efforts to effectively implement its sustainable development strategies, leveraging all possible mechanisms to make sure that its policies and initiatives are aligned with the UAE’s vision to achieve SDGs. The roles of the Ministry of Economy in this context are based on formulating visions and operational plans, and launching programmes, activities and initiatives that support the process of implementing the sustainable development goals and take them forward. The Ministry of Economy constantly highlights the significance of building a fruitful partnership with the private sector in shaping the future of the national economy and maximising its role in the development process. MoE is keen on establishing cooperation with relevant authorities to establish sustainable development partnership between the public and private sectors.

Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women and Girls

Eradicating all forms of discrimination against women and girls does not only constitute a fundamental human right but is also a critical factor in accelerating sustainable development. In the UAE, the Gender Balance Council was established to enhance the leading role of Emirati women in the country’s development, and ensure that best practices are being implemented by federal institutions to meet their gender equality goals.  The country has also introduced laws and initiatives to protect the rights of women, provide equal job opportunities, ensure their decent living and foster their creativity in sustainable and developmental domains.

Decent Work and Inclusive Economic Growth

Goal 8 focuses on promoting comprehensive economic development as well as boosting productivity levels and creating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. Within the Ministry of Economy’s framework, a flourishing international trade is considered a driver of comprehensive economic growth, and constitutes an important means for fulfilling Goal 8. Economic growth, catalysed by the high level of national income, influences the progress and expansion of international trade. At the same time, fluctuations in the condition of international trade have a direct impact on the country’s national income.

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

The UAE is a regional leader in terms of building infrastructure, developing industries and enhancing innovation, which are crucial factors that impact economic growth and development. Globally, it has cemented its leading position in various indicators, including ease of doing business, competitive capacity, entrepreneurship, investment, innovation and tourism. The Ministry of Economy focuses its efforts on meeting the social and environmental sustainability requirements in all economic activities of the UAE to achieve Goal 9, with its core vision that aims to achieve a sustainable economic growth based on knowledge and innovation.

Reduced Inequalities

The UAE has played a significant role in reducing inequalities, which is a crucial factor in achieving stability and sustainability. This commitment serves as a catalyst in making continuous efforts to develop and implement policies and initiatives for sustainable development that improve the standard of living of its people and promote equality in opportunities for different sectors.

Responsible Consumption and Production

With the UAE’s commitment to achieve sustainable development, the government established the Circular Economy Policy, a comprehensive framework that defines the country’s strategy to attain sustainable governance and the right utilisation of natural resources, by adopting consumption and production methods that enhance the quality of life of the present and future generations. The Circular Economy Policy, which offers a significant contribution to the achievement of Goal 12, aims to promote environmental health, support the private sector in the adoption of clean production methods, reduce the strain on the environment, and achieve the UAE’s vision to be a world leader in green development.

Partnerships for the Goals

The Ministry of Economy’s role in achieving Goal 17 involves building and strengthening the UAE’s local, regional and global partnerships to boost opportunities for economic productivity and growth that contribute to sustainable development. It aims to uphold solidarity among nations and developing a collaborative relationship that is based on mutual trust to leverage future opportunities that will help build a stronger and more resilient economy. Moreover, the Ministry constantly works on bolstering ties with the public and private sector and developing a supportive and innovative environment to serve various industries.

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The Sustainable City in Dubai: from dream to reality

Ismail radwan.

If the world is to reach its ambitious climate change commitments and avoid catastrophic global warming, green buildings and sustainable cities will be an important part of the solution. It is estimated that the construction sector accounts for approximately 17% of GHG emissions in the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC).  

Adopting best-practice building techniques can have a tremendous impact on global warming. Developers can make improvements in two areas: upstream construction and downstream operation. Using lightweight facades in construction can limit the energy required and therefore also the emissions released linked to the manufacturing and transport of building materials to the site. Sustainable design can also reduce building impacts on human health and the environment. For example, well-insulated buildings can minimize heating costs in colder countries and reduce cooling costs in warmer countries. 

The World Bank’s GCC management team visited one such site to find out more – The Sustainable City in Dubai, constructed by Diamond Developers, a private sector real estate company that is spearheading the sustainable building movement. 

With a community-based and strong sustainability ethos, the developers set about building a 500-unit community in the heart of Dubai, including a school and an autism rehabilitation center, as well as recreational facilities like an equestrian center.   

For a city that regularly experiences temperatures in excess of 40o centigrade for 4 to 5 months of the year, climate is a challenge. Developers must be able to cool indoor spaces. But Dubai’s climate is also an opportunity, as it has the potential to generate significant amounts of solar energy, not only for their own use but also to export back to the grid.  

In the compound, solar panels top almost all the buildings and car parking spaces, generating enough energy to meet most of the community’s needs. South-facing facades are closed to block the sun while well-insulated windows are placed on the northern frontages. All surfaces are light-colored to reflect the sun and reduce air-conditioning loads.  

A "green spine" runs down the middle of the community providing green, lush landscapes and, more importantly, space for several biodomes housing sustainable kitchen garden plants and vegetables for local consumption.  Management reports the ability to grow up to 4 tons of strawberries in a single container-sized vertical farming facility. Residents are also encouraged to grow their own food in allotments adjacent to their properties using organic practices. 

Photo credit: Diamond Developers 

The community also promotes soft mobility such as shaded walking (more than 80% of the development is car-free) and cycling. Shared electric buggies are the chief mode of motorized transport within the community and a growing number of residents are choosing to benefit from on-site charging points with the purchase of electric vehicles. The developer has deliberately targeted local businesses rather than global franchises to their central marketplace, thus creating jobs for residents and promoting local products.  

Diamond Developers is a privately owned company which means it relies entirely on a commercially profitable real estate model that must make commercial sense to the company and to end-users. The community proves the adage that "green is green," with no inherent tradeoff between sustainable practices and financial rewards.  

At the World Bank, we promote urban development that builds sustainable cities and communities through an urbanization process that is inclusive, resilient, low-carbon, productive, and livable, in order to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 11. The Bank invests an average of US$6 billion in urban development and resilience projects every year.  

This is why we were interested to visit this site to learn about best-practices in the field and within the private sector community that can be emulated not only across Middles East and North Africa (MENA), but across the World. 

The results are remarkable. In 2021, this community in Dubai avoided more than 8,000 tons of CO2e roughly equivalent to removing 853 cars from the roads for a year. Average daily water consumption stands at 162 liters/capita compared to Dubai’s average of 278. And more than 80% of household waste is sorted and recycled. 

With such an emphatic proof of concept, this shows that governments can indeed adopt stricter and greener building codes to promote sustainable materials, better insulation, and energy efficiency. The UAE has taken steps in this direction. Abu Dhabi introduced the Pearl Rating System in 2010 – a framework for sustainable design, construction, and operation of all new construction, specifically tailored to the hot climate and arid environment. In 2016, Dubai adopted the Al Sa’fat green rating system. Structures that do not meet the minimum bronze rating are not given permits. However, higher ratings are optional in both systems and standards vary across the country. To achieve deep emissions reduction in the construction sector, governments and regulators could introduce incentives that will encourage developers and builders to adopt lower carbon construction materials and methods.  

Governments around the world can disseminate such practices through construction industry associations and related stakeholder institutions. Our future depends on it. 

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Sustainable Development Goals in the UAE

Introduction, summary of the story, significance of this story in achievement of sdgs.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) refer to the global initiatives aimed at ending poverty, protecting the earth, and ensuring that all global citizens have peace and prosperity. They are also known as the Global Goals that focus on building on the achievements of Millennium Development Goals. These goals cover areas such as climate change, financial inequalities, consuming sustainably, acquisition of justice, and living peacefully among others (United Nations Development Program, n.d.a). The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a leading UN development agency that assists in the implementation of these initiatives in about 170 nations. It helps governments to assimilate the SDGs in their plans and policies. The agency also focuses on various social issues such as alleviating poverty, climate change, and economic inequality (United Nations Development program, n.d.a). This report discusses a feature story in the UAE that is concerned with a significant social issue aimed at achieving SDGs.

This is a news story by UNDP on how the UAE Government has made a diversification of energy and climate change its strategic priority. The nation’s economy is mainly energy and carbon-intensive than that of other countries in the region such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. The nation has a population of more than 8 million that is predominantly urban-based. It also has a high population growth rate that is the third highest in the world at 3.6 percent. For this reason, the need for contemporary energy is expected to continue increasing. This implies that the emission of greenhouse gasses (GHG) will continue growing at a high rate if the future governments fail to intervene. The objective of UNDP’s new project in Dubai is enhancing the nation’s capabilities of joining global carbon markets and at the same time reducing its carbon emissions (United Nations Development program, n.d.b).

Several important factors have contributed to the success of the project. First, UNDP innovatively sought for required investments in renewable energy projects by providing crucial evidence, projections, and assistance. Secondly, close collaborations between the government, UAE UNDP County Office, MDG Carbon Office as well as the Environment and Energy Group contributed to the project’s success. The project also has high profile supporters such as by the UN Secretary-General and UAE Prime Minister. Third, consultations between various stakeholders ensured proper program assessments, enabling the project team members to design and run the project’s implementation plan. Fourth, UNDP has successfully registered five projects under the Clean Development Mechanism in the country. These projects are both in the industrial and commercial sectors and provide creative solutions for renewable energy and energy efficiency. They also act as an inspiration to the UAE Government as it seeks to implement its new and increasingly ambitious strategy in low-carbon development (United Nations Development program, n.d.b)

Climate change is a significant social issue that is part of the SDGs. The initiative to promote low carbon emissions by the UAE Government in collaboration with UNDP helps in combating and adapting to climate change. The increasing focus on the production and promotion of clean energy in the UAE demonstrates its unwavering commitment to sustainable development. The UAE Government has taken this initiative as an obligation that helps in ensuring the world will be in a position to sustain future generations (Todorova, 2013). It is also aware of the fact that the achievement of global environmental sustainability is only possible if fundamental changes are made at the grass-root level. To become a driving force in making this global initiative a success, the UAE has undertaken projects that promote a green economy. It has also collaborated with other stakeholders in attaining these goals of a green economy.

Promoting investments in renewable energy projects helps in improving the economy’s environmental performance by reducing carbon emissions that can affect the existence of future generations. The projects ensure that the economy consumes resources available in an efficient manner and reduces the environmental impacts of the society in the UAE (Khan, 2015). Reduced emissions have the potential of improving the environment in which current and future generations live. They also inspire organizations conducting businesses in the UAE to come up with CSR projects that support sustainable development. For instance, Dubai Properties Group (DPG) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Dubai Centre of Excellence (DCCE) to advance environmental awareness and resource efficiency through its CSR program (Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence, 2014). UAE also participates in other initiatives that are concerned with climate change. For example, it has signed the Paris Agreement that requires its signatories to present a climate action plan every five years beginning 2020 illustrating various national circumstances.

The UAE Government with the support of UNDP has been a driving force to achieving low carbon emissions that will enable efficient use of energy and attainment of green objectives. The nation has been at the forefront of promoting global efforts of sustaining the environment of future generations through the reduction of carbon emissions. These efforts have led to investments in renewable energy as well as encouraging firms within the economy to adopt similar initiatives.

Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence. (2014). Low carbon developments made by DPG & Dubai Carbon . Web.

Khan, T. (2015). UAE hails landmark sustainable development goals. The National . Web.

Todorova, V. (2013). UAE a contructive and progressive partner in race to lower carbon emissions. The National. Web.

United Nations Development programme. (n.d.a) S ustainable development goals . Web.

United Nations Development programme. (n.d.b). The UAE promotes low-carbon emissions in Dubai. Web.

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Sustainable Urbanism in the UAE

Urban development in the United Arab Emirates has rapidly changed over time. UAE is renowned for its architectural wonders like Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and rapid development. As the severity of the climate crisis is increasing day by day, the countries need to incorporate sustainable design principles. To address the pressing issues brought on by climate change, the UAE, a country well-known for its iconic skyscrapers and ambitious urban projects, has adopted sustainable design principles which would find a balance between social, economic, and environmental factors. The goal of this essay is to investigate the difficulties and efforts associated with incorporating sustainable design principles into urban development initiatives throughout the UAE.

Dubai Plan 2021

Dubai Plan 2021 was introduced to illustrate Dubai’s future through a holistic lens starting from the people and society that would shape the city. The plan talks about the city’s urban development, including the built and natural environments, and how these affect people’s lives. Its primary goal is to make Dubai a better destination for travel, residence, and employment. The plan also gives the city’s economy, which fuels its growth, a lot of attention. Finally, it discusses how the government governs the expansion of the city. Each of the six themes that make up these points of view highlights significant goals for Dubai’s vision for the year 2021.The themes include the wellness of people, the society, experience, place, economy and lastly the government.

Urban Planning Vision

When it comes to sustainable urban planning strategies, UAE has made significant progress. This strategy focuses on combining smart city infrastructures with sustainable design and principles. Masdar City in Abu Dhabi , which aims to be the world’s first carbon-neutral city, is one such well-known example. Renewable energy sources are essential to the city’s energy ecosystem. Solar panels are affixed to building facades and roofs to make use of the region’s abundant sunlight. By generating electricity, these solar panels help the city achieve carbon neutrality and significantly reduce its carbon footprint.  

As part of its mission to establish Dubai as a global leader in smart cities, the Smart Dubai initiative also seeks to enhance energy efficiency, urban mobility, and connectivity. The use of smart grids and intelligent transport systems reduces energy use and carbon emissions.

Green Building Initiatives

The UAE places a lot of emphasis on green building practises to decrease energy use and enhance quality. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is highly desired for the construction of sustainable buildings. For instance, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), which demonstrates the integration of energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials, received a Platinum LEED certification.

When designing sustainable cities, the UAE gives the use of environmentally friendly building materials top priority. By utilising sustainable wood, green roofs, and recycled materials, the Dubai Sustainable City project lessens the environmental impact of construction. Furthermore, it is preferred to use architectural designs that maximise the use of natural lighting and ventilation while reducing the need for artificial energy use.

Transportation Systems

Sustainable transportation systems are aimed at a better living in UAE where they are promoting Electronic Vehicles (EVs) to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels and would cause less carbon emissions. In support of EVs, Dubai launched the Electric vehicle “Green Charger” initiative. Through this initiative, public charging infrastructure for electronic vehicles was developed and 100 EV green chargers to encourage the use of Electric Vehicles among the public in 2015. Since then, the initiative expanded to over 350 chargers across the city.

Renewable Energy Systems

The UAE’s dedication to renewable energy represents a significant step towards a sustainable and environmentally conscious future. An example of this effort is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai. If the country could generate a massive 5,000 megawatts of renewable energy by the year 2030, its dependence on fossil fuels would be reduced, improving the country’s energy security and resilience. The UAE can ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future by making investments in renewable energy.

Integration of Green Spaces

The emphasis on green spaces is one of the notable efforts in sustainable urban development. The importance of establishing easily accessible parks, gardens, and recreational areas in urban settings has been acknowledged by the UAE. Al Safa Park in Dubai and Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi. The development of urban parks and ecological paths is one of the noteworthy initiatives in this regard. These green areas offer residents and visitors a break from the busy urban environment and a chance to reconnect with nature amidst the city’s skyscrapers.

While contributing significantly to Dubai’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the construction and real estate industries are among the most resource-intensive sectors. As a result, developing cities like Dubai must plan according to sustainable principles to minimize their negative environmental effects and depletion of natural resources. Cities can strive to be magnets for long-term environmental sustainability by promoting sustainable lifestyles, more environmentally friendly manufacturing, renewable energy, water resource management, decrease in solid waste and sewage treatment, recycling and reuse of materials, sustainable urban design and construction, public wellness, cultural expression, and social responsibility of residents. The UAE’s path to sustainable urban development is marked by admirable efforts and various challenges. Using a multidisciplinary approach, architects, urban planners, policymakers, and the public work together to create cities that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally conscious and socially inclusive.

(No date a) Sustainable Urban Development in the UAE . Available at: https://www.globalurban.org/GUDMag06Vol2Iss1/Al%20Marashi.htm (Accessed: 05 September 2023). 

(No date) Dubai Plan 2021 . Available at: https://www.dubaiplan2021.ae/ (Accessed: 05 September 2023). 

Dubai’s ‘Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’ 5,000MW Solar Park aims to save 6.5 million tco2e annually (2022) C40 Cities . Available at: https://www.c40.org/case-studies/dubai-s-mohammed-bin-rashid-al-maktoum-5-000mw-solar-park-aims-to-save-6-5-million-tco2e-annually/ (Accessed: 05 September 2023). 

Sustainable cities of the UAE: Pioneering the path to a Greener Future (2023a) Sheridan . Available at: https://www.sheridanuae.com/sustainable-cities-of-the-uae-pioneering-the-path-to-a-greener-future/#:~:text=Sustainable%20cities%20in%20the%20UAE,the%20environmental%20footprint%20of%20buildings. (Accessed: 05 September 2023). 

Online Sources

Image  1_ Dubai Plan 2021 _ © www.dubaiplan2021.ae :: Dubai Plan 2021

Image  2_ Masdar City _© Gallery – Discover – Masdar City

Image  3_ Mohammed bin rashid al maktoum solar park _ © Dubai’s ‘Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’ 5,000MW Solar Park Aims to Save 6.5 Million tCO2e Annually – C40 Cities

Image  4_ Al Safa Park _ © Safa Park Dubai: Ticket Price, How to Reach & More | Dubai City (dubaict.com)

Shreya Bhattacharya is a final year architecture student at Jindal School of Art and Architecture. With a keen interest in art and a curiosity for discovering and learning new things, Shreya is dedicated to unravelling the stories behind art and the lived spaces. Through her writings, she aims to capture and explore the intricate relationship between people and their built environments.

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Dubai faces sustainability challenges: Report

Environment.

New environment report provides an insight into emirate’s achievements and future challenges

Dubai: Despite making significant strides in transforming its environmental outlook over the last few years, Dubai is facing serious challenges in maintaining sustainable growth, a new report has suggested.

However, the government’s renewed commitment to build a smart and sustainable city by ensuring the availability of clean energy sources and protecting natural resources such as soil, water and air will help overcome the challenges.

The Dubai Environment Outlook study, carried out jointly by the General Secretariat for The Executive Council and Dubai Municipality, notes that the constantly rising population demographics and heightened economic activities are the main drivers of environmental change in Dubai.

Providing a comprehensive assessment of the current status of the environment, while also highlighting challenges the emirate will need to overcome in the coming years, the report takes a close look at seven themes: air, water, biodiversity, land, coastal zone, built environment, and waste.

Offering a rare insight into the environmental status of the emirate, the report responds to global calls for greater transparency and access to environmental data, as Dubai makes a conscious effort to adopt a sustainably clean and healthy environment.

While noting that there was widespread environmental degradation during the construction boom of the last decade when developers often showed little regard for the environment, the report points out that the evidence now suggests that Dubai is now witnessing a turning point.

According to the report, environmental improvement now prominently features in national plans like Dubai Plan 2021 and Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, as well as a number of corporate strategies in the country.

In addition, technological advances and multilateral environmental agreements have an increasingly large role to play. In Dubai, technological innovations by the likes of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) present powerful tools for mitigating some of the environmental impacts caused by human activities. And all of these efforts will be central to the UAE’s broader global obligations, noted the report.

Commenting on the report, Abdullah Al Shaibani, secretary-general of the Dubai Executive Council, said: “Ensuring a sustainable pathway for the future is vital, and Dubai has taken bold and swift steps in that direction of late. Economic growth and the resulting increase in construction activity have both necessitated the need for a deeper examination of the resulting environmental impact, providing us with the opportunity to develop a greener and more sustainable approach and this report has given us a basis to build on, in line with the objectives of Dubai Plan 2021.”

He added that the importance of sustainable solutions for future generations is of unquestionable importance, and directing more investment towards research and development, innovation and advanced technologies should be given special priority.

“We are seeing increasing momentum in this regard, to create systems that are resilient to climate change, and institutions that are building sustainable development into their core business strategy. This report is a welcome step in that regard,” he said.

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Sustainability in Dubai: The city’s efforts to become more environmentally friendly

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Dubai, famous for its opulence and grandeur, is also making significant strides toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. Read on to discover how this city is paving the way for a greener future.

Dubai has long been known for its ambitious and innovative construction projects, as well as its luxurious lifestyle. However, in recent years, the city has also become a leader in sustainability, recognizing the importance of preserving the environment and natural resources for future generations. In this article, we will review some of the city’s efforts to become more environmentally friendly.

Dubai Clean Energy Strategy

In 2015, the Dubai government launched the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy, which aims to make the city one of the world’s most sustainable cities by 2050. The strategy includes several ambitious targets and consists of five main pillars: infrastructure, legislation, funding, building capacities and skills, and environment-friendly energy mix.

The infrastructure pillar includes initiatives such as Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park , which is the largest generator of solar energy in the world from a single location with a capacity to produce 5,000 MW by 2030 and a total investment of AED 50 billion.

The legislation pillar focuses on the establishment of a legislative structure supporting clean energy policies. The funding pillar includes the establishment of the Dubai Green Fund worth AED 100 billion which will contribute through its financial resources easy loans for investors in the clean energy sector in the emirate at reduced interest rates.

The fourth pillar aims to build human resources capabilities through global training programs in the field of clean energy in cooperation with international organizations and institutes such as the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena) as well as international companies and R&D centers.

The fifth pillar is focused on creating an environment-friendly energy mix comprising solar energy (25 percent), nuclear power (7 percent), clean coal (7 percent), and gas (61 percent) by 2030. The mix will gradually increase the employment of clean energy sources to 75 percent by 2050, making Dubai the city with the least carbon footprint in the world.

Green Buildings

The concept of Green Building refers to the method of constructing a built environment that is efficient in terms of its use of resources such as energy, water, and materials. This is achieved by reducing building-related impacts on human health and the environment throughout the building’s life cycle, from the initial design and construction phases to its operation, maintenance, change of use, and eventual deconstruction. The key to achieving this goal is through the use of better siting, design, and construction practices that promote resource efficiency and environmental sustainability.

In January 2011, the Dubai Municipality implemented the Dubai Green Building Regulations and Specifications as the first step towards realizing the sustainable development strategy. These guidelines provide a framework for constructing sustainable buildings that use renewable energy sources, reduce water consumption, and minimize waste. The regulations were initially mandatory for governmental buildings and optional for private ones.

After the construction of 44 green governmental buildings, in March 2014, the Dubai Municipality took a second step by mandating green building regulations and specifications for all new buildings in the city. This means that all new buildings in Dubai are now required to follow sustainable construction practices to reduce their environmental impact.

Dubai has also been promoting the use of green building technologies to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. One notable example is the Dubai Frame , a landmark building in the city that uses innovative design to reduce energy consumption. The building is constructed in a way that maximizes natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning and artificial lighting.

Sustainable Tourism

As a popular tourist destination, Dubai has recognized the importance of sustainable tourism. According to the World Tourism Organization , sustainable tourism refers to a type of tourism that considers both current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, and aims to satisfy the needs of visitors, industry, the environment, and host communities. This approach seeks to balance meeting the present demands of tourists and host communities with preserving and improving opportunities for the future.

The Dubai Sustainable Tourism initiative is a public-private partnership that aims to support the broader clean energy and sustainable development goals of the city. The program is built on three core pillars: economic sustainability, social sustainability, and environmental sustainability.

The initiative seeks to reduce the environmental impact of tourism in Dubai, promote social inclusivity and cultural awareness, and support the local economy. The program involves a range of activities, including training and certification programs for tourism stakeholders, promoting sustainable tourism practices to visitors, and supporting the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure in the city. With this initiative, Dubai Tourism is committed to building a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry in Dubai, while preserving the city’s unique cultural and natural heritage.

Dubai is also home to several eco-tourism destinations, such as the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which is dedicated to the conservation of the Arabian Desert’s unique flora and fauna.

Sustainable Transportation

Dubai has made significant strides in promoting sustainable transportation, intending to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. The city has introduced a fleet of hybrid taxis and electric buses and plans to have 20% of all trips in Dubai made by autonomous vehicles by 2030.

Moreover, there are plans to enhance the infrastructure, expand the use of clean energy to cover buildings and facilities, and promote the recycling of the waste in support of a circular economy.

Additionally, the Dubai Metro, which was launched in 2009, is a fully automated and driverless metro system that runs on electricity, reducing carbon emissions and congestion on the roads. The system is also powered by a mix of clean energy sources, including solar power.

If you’re visiting Dubai and need to get around the city in style, while still respecting mother nature, it worths to  download the Blacklane app  to book a ride that produces zero emissions . Since 2017, all of our rides have been automatically carbon-offset and now we’re working on  offsetting all of our carbon emissions  back to our founding in 2011. Plus, electric vehicles are incorporated into our offerings. 

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Dubai, being a rapidly developing city with a high population density, generates a substantial amount of waste every day. The government of Dubai recognizes the importance of waste reduction and recycling to minimize the environmental impact of this waste. To that end, the Dubai Municipality has taken several measures to encourage waste reduction and recycling.

One of the main initiatives taken by the Dubai Municipality is the introduction of a comprehensive recycling program. The program is aimed at promoting the separation of recyclable waste at the source, and encouraging residents to recycle paper, plastics, and other materials. The municipality has installed recycling bins in various locations throughout the city, making it easier for residents to recycle. The recycling program has been successful in diverting a significant amount of waste from landfills and reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal.

In addition to the recycling program, Dubai has also established the Waste-to-Energy Project. This innovative project involves converting municipal solid waste into electricity, which helps to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. The Dubai Waste Management Centre (DWMC) will process 1.9 million tonnes of waste annually, making it the world’s largest operational capacity. Once completed, the project will generate enough renewable energy to power 135,000 homes. The project is on track to meet its timeline, with the first phase set to be completed by 2023 and the entire project by 2024. By contributing to Dubai Municipality’s strategic objective of diverting waste from landfills, the project is a significant step towards achieving the goal of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly city.

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Essay

Introduction, reference list.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the most economically successful urban areas in the United Arab Emirates. These emirates’ economic and social progress directly depends on the development of the oil industry.

In spite of the controversial aspects which are associated with the issues of economic and environmental sustainability, the planning and housing in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the important developed sectors which are promoted by the governments to satisfy the citizens’ needs with the help of the developed housing programmes and projects.

Although the housing policies and programmes developed and implemented in Abu Dhabi and Dubai differ in some conditions and aspects, the basic principles and norms on which the policies and programmes are based are similar and work to protect the citizens’ rights.

The projects worked out in Abu Dhabi and Dubai respond to the idea of social and environmental sustainability, and the housing programmes are developed to address the citizens’ needs and resolve the housing problems.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) consist of seven federal emirates, and the paper focuses on the discussion of the development of such emirates as Abu Dhabi and Dubai which economic and social progress is associated with the effective government policies implemented within the economic and social spheres. Several decades ago, the territories of Abu Dhabi and Dubai were deserts, and today they are prosperous urban regions.

The main purpose of this report is to examine the functioning of governmental housing policies and programmes, the main trends in the real estate markets of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and the property rights followed in the emirates which can influence the development of the housing policies; it is necessary to analyze the data on the housing programmes’ implementation and to compare the information on the functioning of the policies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The reason for writing the report is the necessity to examine the factors that shape the growth of Abu Dhabi and Dubai in relation to the accepted planning and housing policies. The results of this report can be used to work out the recommendations that can improve the economic and environmental sustainability of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The report is developed to address several significant assumptions. It is possible to assume that the rapid demographic and economic growth of Dubai and Abu Dhabi is based on the development of the oil industry in the country (Sayigh 2013, p. 131).

However, it is also important to pay attention to the fact that there are different visions of the rapid economic development of the UAE in relation to the impact on the environment (Norton 2005). The study is conducted to examine the economic and environmental sustainability of the hosing policies, projects, and programmes used in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (Hawkins 2004; Kazimee 2012, p. 179).

These assumptions are helpful for evaluating the development of these two emirates in relation to the efficiency of many housing programs implemented in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

This report contains a literature review in which the history of housing policies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is discussed, the discussion of the urban development in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the discussion of property rights and housing policies in the emirates, the discussion of the government housing policies and programmes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with the focus on their similarities and differences, and the results and discussion sections which provide the comparison and overview of the report findings.

Hawkins, R 2004, The Practical Guide to Waste Management Law: With a List of Abbreviations and Acronyms, Useful Websites and Relevant Legislation, Thomas Telford, London.

Kazimee, B 2012, Heritage and Sustainability in the Islamic Built Environment , WIT Press, Ashurst.

Norton, B 2005, Sustainability: A Philosophy of Adaptive Ecosystem Management, University of Chicago Press, Chicago.

Sayigh, A 2013, Sustainability, Energy and Architecture: Case Studies in Realizing Green Buildings, Academic Press, New York.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, December 2). The United Arab Emirates (UAE). https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-united-arab-emirates-uae-essay/

"The United Arab Emirates (UAE)." IvyPanda , 2 Dec. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/the-united-arab-emirates-uae-essay/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'The United Arab Emirates (UAE)'. 2 December.

IvyPanda . 2023. "The United Arab Emirates (UAE)." December 2, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-united-arab-emirates-uae-essay/.

1. IvyPanda . "The United Arab Emirates (UAE)." December 2, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-united-arab-emirates-uae-essay/.

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ENOC Group's sustainable growth strategy drives unprecedented profitability in FY 2023

08 May, 2024

ENOC Group, the leading integrated global energy player, has reported its highest ever profitability in FY 2023. This exceptional performance underscores the success of the new long-term growth strategy aimed at delivering world-class sustainable and integrated energy solutions further reinforcing the Group’s position as an innovative and forward-looking energy player. The growth strategy, launched early last year and founded on five strategic pillars, aims to meet the growing demands for reliable, secure, and sustainable energy, locally and internationally, through a continued focus on operational efficiencies, collaboration, and implementation of digital technologies. His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO, ENOC, said: “Anchored on the action-oriented goals of our five-pillar growth strategy, ENOC Group is steadfastly executing its long-term sustainable vision as it leads the transition to a lower emissions and green energy future. The Group’s exceptional business performance in 2023 demonstrates its commitment to innovation and reflects our continued momentum towards driving sustainable value in the energy sector. In 2024 and beyond, we will continue to build on the key goals of this strategy to meet the expectations of our stakeholders, and in line with the broader strategic ambitions of Dubai and the UAE.” ENOC Group's profitability soared across the value chain in 2023, as ENOC remained committed to enhancing competitiveness and creating long-term value for the economy under the goals of the newly implemented strategy’s first pillar of ‘Proactive Improvement’. In 2023, the Group has successfully completed a significant milestone in its technological transformation by implementing SAP over a five-year period. This strategic move was designed to leverage the latest technological advancements, aiming to achieve process excellence and enhance operational efficiencies. Following the successful SAP rollout, the Group initiated a comprehensive digital strategy, signalling the beginning of a continuous digital journey. This strategy is not just an extension of the SAP implementation but a broad, ongoing commitment to adapt and evolve with emerging technologies and market demands. By doing so, the Group ensures it remains competitive and well-positioned to capitalise on future technological innovations. Through the pillar of ‘Asset Optimisation’, ENOC Group maximised capacity utilisation across processing units and terminals and capitalised on market opportunities. Terminals capacity utilisation reached a five-year high of 98% in FY2023, reflecting strong storage demand. The Group expanded its retail station network by commissioning 14 additional sites, including a successful expansion into the Abu Dhabi market with 4 stations in line with its ambitious expansion plans for the UAE capital. Additionally, ENOC Link, the Group’s pioneering fuel delivery service, opened 7 sites last year. Having consolidated its strengths in addressing improvement areas and meeting the needs of customers for over a decade, ENOC Group further demonstrated its commitment to the ‘Think Customer’ pillar by achieving an all-time high Customer Satisfaction (C-SAT) score of 86% in 2023. Last year, the Group introduced several customer-focused initiatives to drive retail expansion, including new fuelling formats tailored to catchment areas, enhanced payment systems, and infrastructure upgrades at retail stations to service more customers, especially during peak hours. As part of its ‘Integrated Value Chain & Growth’ pillar, the Group continued to explore opportunities to further optimise supply-demand balance and enhance its value chain to grow the business beyond UAE. In 2023, ENOC also made significant progress on its sustainable vision to meet the clean energy demands of the future under the fifth pillar of ‘Diversified Energy Solutions’. Aligning with global sustainability trends and the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, ENOC contributed to reducing its carbon footprint through several initiatives focused on meeting clean energy demands. This included the testing of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) with Emirates Airlines and partnership agreements with local and international entities to convert municipal solid waste to SAF. The Group is also exploring Hydrogen as an alternate fuel and has commissioned the first Green Hydrogen dual pressure station that was showcased during COP28 in Dubai last year.

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