Dubai: an example of sustainable tourism

22-07-24

• Since 2007, more than 2.1 million trees have been planted, neutralizing 12,467 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.

Dubai stands out for its strong commitment to the environment, implementing initiatives and infrastructure that promote sustainable tourism and position the city as a leading global tourism destination.

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has launched the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) initiative to position the city as a pioneering destination in sustainability. This helps the tourism sector achieve its goals aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, Agenda D33 and the UAE's net zero emissions strategy by 2050.

The goals include ecosystem care, a sustainable tourism agenda, innovative infrastructure and corporate social responsibility.

The “Dubai Can” initiative, launched in 2022, reflects Dubai's ambition to lead in sustainability by promoting a culture of conscious consumption. With the “Refill for life” program, it encourages the use of reusable water bottles to reduce plastic consumption. In two years, it has eliminated more than 18 million single-use 500-milliliter bottles. In addition, 50 water fountains have been installed at beaches, parks and shopping malls, with plans to add 30 more before the end of the year.

Another highlight is “Dubai Reef,” launched in December 2023, the world's largest marine reef project. Over the next four years, 20,000 reef modules will be deployed in Dubai waters, covering 600 square kilometers and promoting marine biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable fisheries and the National Food Strategy 2051.

Dubai Sustainable Tourism collaborates with the private sector to implement sustainable measures. From 2021, all hotels must comply with 19 Sustainability Requirements, including maintenance strategies and corporate social responsibility programs. To ensure compliance, DET uses the Carbon Calculator and Hotel Emission Analytical Reports. Hotels that excel in sustainability are recognized with the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Seal in gold, silver and bronze categories.

Dubai has emerged as a leader in sustainable development and clean energy. By 2050, the UAE plans to use exclusively clean energy sources. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is the world's largest clean energy park, with the tallest solar tower (262.44 meters) and 15-hour thermal storage. The use of hydrogen in mobility and industry is also being researched here.

Since 2007, the Emirates Environment Group (EEG) afforestation program has planted more than 2.1 million trees, neutralizing 12,467 metric tons of CO2 per year. In addition, the Intelak initiative brings together entrepreneurs to build an innovative ecosystem in aviation and tourism, seeking efficient solutions to optimize resources.

The Dubai Urban Strategy 2024 emphasizes sustainable infrastructure, such as the Siro One Za'abeel hotel, an icon on the city's skyline. This hotel stands out for its sustainable design, with a façade that minimizes the use of air conditioning, provides natural light, and reduces energy use. Other initiatives include efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting, and automated systems to reduce waste and operating costs.