The conference represents a qualitative addition to Dubai’s efforts to cement its position as a center for innovation and leadership in environmental and climate action, supporting the transition toward a sustainable future.
Article index:
- Inauguration of the first edition of the Dubai Environment Conference
- High-level ministerial and international attendance
- Alignment with major national strategies
- Biodiversity, resources, and food security tracks
- Climate, circular economy, and artificial intelligence
- Statements from the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority
- Frequently asked questions
Inauguration of the first edition of the Dubai Environment Conference
As part of Dubai’s continuous efforts to establish its pioneering position as a global hub for sustainability and environmental awareness, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, inaugurated the inaugural edition of the “Dubai Environment Conference and Accompanying Exhibition”. Organized by the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, the prominent event is hosted at the Grand Hyatt Dubai hotel over two consecutive days from September 7 to 8, 2026, under the core slogan “Protecting our environment.. guaranteeing our future”.
The event serves as a unified platform for constructive environmental dialogue and effective climate action, embodying the steadfast commitment of the United Arab Emirates and the Emirate of Dubai to continuous work in addressing the repercussions of climate change and preserving natural resources for future generations.
High-level ministerial and international attendance
The official opening ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, alongside a distinguished group of representatives from international environmental organizations and elite leaders of national and global institutions operating in sustainable energy and green economy fields. A high-ranking gathering of decision-makers, experts, specialists, and representatives from the public and private sectors also participated in the proceedings.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed took a tour of the specialized environmental exhibition, where he listened to a detailed explanation of the prominent initiatives and pioneering projects implemented by participating government entities and private companies. These efforts aim to enhance biodiversity, conserve nature, accelerate the adoption of circular economy applications, and build integrated and sustainable ecological systems.
Alignment with major national strategies
The conference is characterized by its full harmony with the comprehensive national vision of the UAE and its local and international strategies in environmental, sustainability, and food security fields. These references include the “UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative”, the “National Green Agenda 2030”, in addition to vital developmental initiatives in the emirate represented by the “Dubai Economic Agenda D33” and the “Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan”.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum emphasized that the wide participation of environmental experts, sustainability leaders, and decision-makers reflects Dubai’s steadfast commitment to pursuing its efforts to protect the environment and enhance the efficiency of natural resources, in line with national aspirations to build a prosperous and sustainable future. His Highness explained that the conference provides an ideal space to elevate dialogue surrounding environmental priorities, mobilize joint efforts, exchange expertise and knowledge, and foster qualitative partnerships across Dubai and the UAE, wishing everyone success in yielding recommendations that bolster innovative solutions and serve future generations.
Biodiversity, resources, and food security tracks
The conference program over its two days focuses on six main tracks reflecting the top environmental priorities of the Emirate of Dubai. The first track, “Biodiversity”, addresses national and local efforts exerted to protect natural habitats and wildlife, discussing future challenges and opportunities, and the vital societal role in preserving the natural environment.
Meanwhile, the second track, “Natural Resources”, dedicates advanced scientific sessions to examine ways to protect air and water quality, demonstrating their direct impact on public health and ecosystems, and the mechanisms followed to maintain their sustainability. The third track, “Food Security”, addresses the pillars of the adopted strategy in Dubai to support supply chains, manage food loss and waste, expand public-private partnerships, and enhance local agricultural production to bolster the food security system.
Climate, circular economy, and artificial intelligence
The fourth track focuses on “Climate Change” issues, reviewing carbon and greenhouse gas emission reduction initiatives, adaptation strategies to climate impacts, building the resilience of local communities, and forecasting climate priorities for coming decades while highlighting innovative funding models and the role of advanced technologies in supporting environmental action.
The fifth track, “Circular Economy”, showcases best practices in resource recovery, e-waste recycling, and the economic investment opportunities associated with this sustainable approach. Finally, the sixth track, “Environmental Artificial Intelligence”, stands out as a qualitative addition highlighting the role of smart technologies and machine learning algorithms in accurately collecting environmental data, monitoring ecosystem health, and tracking compliance with approved environmental regulations and standards in the emirate.
Statements from the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority
His Excellency Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, director-general of the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, emphasized that the core goal of launching this conference is to establish it as a unifying platform for regional and international environmental dialogue, based on the vision of the wise leadership that has made sustainability an authentic approach to protecting the environment as a shared responsibility between the government, private sector, and society.
Bin Thani explained that the event brings together a scientific conference showcasing the latest research and innovative solutions, a specialized exhibition highlighting successful experiences, alongside high-level panel discussions to foster policy formulation and build new partnerships. He pointed out that this momentum reflects Dubai’s status as a trusted destination for global climate dialogue, complementing the historical legacy achieved by the UAE through its stellar success in hosting the COP28 climate summit at Expo City Dubai in late 2023.
Frequently asked questions
Question: What is the scheduled date and location for the Dubai Environment Conference?
Answer: The conference is held at the Grand Hyatt Dubai hotel over September 7 and 8, 2026, under the patronage of the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority.
Question: What are the six main tracks discussed by the conference?
Answer: The conference discusses biodiversity, natural resources, food security, climate change, the circular economy, and environmental artificial intelligence.
Question: How does the conference support the UAE’s climate strategies?
Answer: The conference supports the Net Zero 2050 strategy, the National Green Agenda 2030, and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan by fostering environmental innovation and sustainable partnerships.
