Sustainability in the UAE: Groundbreaking Initiatives and Their Environmental Impact

The concept of sustainability in the UAE is not new. The region began focusing on sustainability as a strategic priority several decades ago, driven by a combination of environmental concerns, economic diversification goals, and a forward-thinking leadership vision. The initiation of several sustainability projects in the UAE aims to tackle environmental issues and foster sustainable progress. These initiatives highlight the UAE's commitment to creating a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future for its citizens and residents. 

What are some major UAE sustainability initiatives?

Here are some of the UAE sustainability initiatives fortifying the importance of sustainability across various sectors, including the economy, society, infrastructure, and the environment.

Vision 2040

In March 2021, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, unveiled the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, outlining a holistic vision for sustainable urban growth in Dubai. This plan aims to expand green and leisure areas, with public parks set to double in size, while nature reserves and rural landscapes will cover 60 percent of the emirate's total area. The strategy also entails the establishment of multiple green corridors, connecting service zones, residential districts, and workplaces to promote pedestrian, bicycle, and eco-friendly transportation throughout the city.

COP28

COP28 marked the 28th annual United Nations (UN) climate meeting, where governments convened to discuss strategies for mitigating and adapting to climate change. Held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), the summit was initially slated to run from November 30 to December 12, 2023, but extended by another day. Leveraging the Expo 2020 Dubai site for the conference underscored the nation's commitment to sustainability, repurposing structures initially intended to "connect minds and create the future" for hosting the world's foremost annual climate change gathering.

Additionally, during COP28, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the UAE launched the 'Empowering Lives and Livelihoods – Renewables for Climate Action' initiative. This endeavor aims to bolster climate resilience and adaptation in vulnerable communities by integrating renewable energy into agri-food and health value chains. By fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships encompassing governments, private sectors, development banks, and philanthropic entities, the initiative seeks to address climate challenges while advancing sustainable solutions.

The UAE’s Green Agenda - 2030

The government introduced The UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 to increase the GDP by 4 to 5 percent, boosting exports by approximately AED 24 to 25 billion. It also aims to reduce emissions to below 100 kilowatt-hours. This long-term strategy outlines a pathway toward sustainable development and cultivating an environmentally conscious economy within the UAE.

• The agenda is structured around five key objectives: 
• Fostering a competitive knowledge economy
• Advancing social development and enhancing the quality of life
• Promoting sustainable environmental practices and preserving natural resources
• Advocating for clean energy adoption and climate action
• Encouraging a green lifestyle and sustainable resource utilization

By 2030, the UAE Green Agenda will achieve these objectives, driving economic growth, enhancing environmental stewardship, and fostering a sustainable future for the nation.

UAE Energy Strategy 2050

The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 aims to triple renewable energy contribution and allocate AED 150 to AED 200 billion in investment by 2030. Initially launched in 2017 as the nation's inaugural unified energy strategy, it prioritizes balancing energy supply and demand while fulfilling environmental commitments. In 2023, it was updated to align with the evolving energy landscape, advancements in low-emission technologies, and adherence to the Paris Agreement objectives.

The revised strategy resonated with H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability, themed 'Today for Tomorrow.' It focuses on promoting renewable and nuclear energy deployment, bolstering energy efficiency, stimulating research and innovation in energy technologies, enhancing local clean energy capacity, and attracting investments in the renewable and clean energy sector. The strategy also aims to create 50,000 new green jobs by 2030.

Clean Energy Strategy

Launched by H. H.  Sheikh Mohammed in November 2015, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy aims to generate 75 percent of the country’s energy needs from renewable sources by 2050. Additionally, this Dubai sustainability initiative aims to position the city as a global hub for clean energy and green economy initiatives.

• Clean Energy Strategy is structured around five key pillars:
• Infrastructure development
• Legislative frameworks
• Financial support
• Capacity building
• Fostering an environmentally friendly energy mix

This Dubai green project's infrastructure pillar includes notable projects like the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, slated to become the world's largest solar energy producer from a single location. The solar park project, with an eventual capacity of 5,000 MW by 2030, requires a total investment of AED 50 billion. The legislative aspect of the strategy focuses on establishing a regulatory framework that supports clean energy policies, with implementation planned in two phases. This initiative targets a 70% reduction in the carbon footprint of power generation, with estimated savings of US$190 billion.

Dubai Can

Since its inception, the citywide sustainability initiative known as Dubai Can has achieved significant milestones, notably witnessing a reduction in the consumption equivalent to nearly 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles within just two years. With the invaluable support of its partners and sponsors, Dubai Can has strategically installed 50 public water stations across the city, strategically positioned in parks and popular tourist destinations. These stations have dispensed approximately 9 million liters of water to date.

Launched on 15 February 2022 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Dubai aims to curb the use of single-use plastic water bottles. Additionally, it seeks to empower residents and visitors to actively build a more sustainable future while contributing vital to wildlife and marine environment conservation efforts.

Masdar City

Masdar City, a sustainability initiative led by Abu Dhabi, is a pioneering urban development project striving for carbon neutrality and zero waste. It emphasizes sustainable design, renewable energy, and efficient transportation, with innovations like solar power and the Personal Rapid Transit system. Masdar City also fosters research and innovation in sustainability while integrating green spaces and water conservation measures. It serves as a global model for sustainable urban living, showcasing Abu Dhabi's commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve represents the UAE's national park and is vital to Dubai's natural legacy. Renowned as the foremost destination for genuine and eco-conscious nature encounters in the UAE, DDCR offers a distinctive desert experience. Visitors can partake in various activities, from dune driving to enjoying dinner and live performances in a traditional Bedouin camp, as well as sandboarding, camel rides, and falconry.

Top Sustainable Developments in Dubai

There are many eco-friendly communities in Dubai. These include The Sustainability City, Green Community, Dubai Silicon Oasis, DAMAC Hills 2, and Jumeirah Golf Estate. The Sustainable City by Diamond Developers is Dubai's first Net Zero Energy community, hailed as the "happiest" in the GCC for three years. It integrates clean energy, water recycling, and sustainable transportation like electric buggies.

Green Community in Dubai Investments Park offers low-rise residences amidst parks, while DAMAC Hills' Evergreen sub-community emphasizes resource efficiency. Dubai Silicon Oasis is a smart city with eco-friendly practices, while Al Barari boasts botanical gardens and renewable energy. DAMAC Hills 2 and Jumeirah Golf Estates prioritize energy-saving materials and waste management. Expo The Valley offers smart homes amid natural landscapes, and Ghaff Woods preserves biodiversity with energy-efficient buildings and water-saving measures.