State of Green Economy Report 2020

STATE OF GREEN ECONOMY REPORT 2020

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STATE OF GREEN ECONOMY REPORT 2020

We recognise that preserving our energy resources will be one of the greatest challenges in our drive towards sustainable development. This, however, will not materialise unless the different facets of our society adopt energy conservation principles in their core values. The future generations will be the chief beneficiary of our achievements and the best judge of what we accomplish in this field.

HIS HIGHNESS

SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM VICE PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND RULER OF DUBAI

There has been much progress to date in the move towards a green economy, where economic growth and environmental responsibility are given equal importance in the development of a sustainable future. Indeed, the green economy is an engine of growth, providing opportunities for both the public and private sector.

HIS HIGHNESS

SHEIKH AHMED BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM CHAIRMAN OF THE DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY

Dear Readers, I am pleased to present our new report, which tackles the many milestones that have been reached on the road to a green economy. This is a path with many challenges, but overcoming them has made it all the more rewarding, especially as we are guided by the foresight of our wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed forces, to promote sustainable development and a green economy.

This report highlights the key achievements of active institutions and organisations in green economy, comprising practices and success stories that help drive the transition to a green economy. It also covers the policies that make the UAE a model for building a sustainable economy, achieving continuous growth without affecting natural resources or the environment. These achievements are based on a vision that anticipates the future, in line with the UAE Centennial 2071, to ensure a happy and sustainable future for generations to come and to make the UAE the world’s leading nation.

The UAE views sustainability and green economy as a global priority and the nation is committed to combatting the impacts of climate change through relevant strategies and policies.

The World Green Economy Organization is working to strengthen public-private partnerships and supporting the sector to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 key objectives across the region Dubai is a pioneer in the transition to a green economy, through two parallel courses of action. The first is to reduce energy and water demand by 30% by 2030, by promoting efficiency and conservation programmes; the second is improving the supply side by diversifying the energy mix, especially clean energy, increasing efficiency and reducing power and water network losses.

This emphasises Dubai’s commitment to enhancing sustainability, energy security and environmental conservation. This report is part of this commitment and supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which was launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed, with the aim of providing 75% of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy by 2050. A key pillar of this is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which will generate 5,000MW from a range of photovoltaic and concentrated solar power technologies.

As well as raising the level of clean energy supplied, Dubai is working to become a model green economy by rationalising its use of energy and water to balance development with environmental concerns. This report highlights our efforts to promote sustainability in all its environmental, social and economic aspects, providing a sustainable model for energy and water conservation, and supporting economic growth without harming the environment and its natural resources.

HIS EXCELLENCY

SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER VICE CHAIRMAN OF DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY, MD & CEO OF DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY

8 PRINCIPLES OF GOVERNANCE FOR DUBAI PRINCIPLE 1: THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION Dubai is an integral part of the UAE and a pillar of the federation. The Emirate’s destiny is entwined with the UAE’s destiny, its well-being is vital to the UAE, and its people are ever-willing to sacrifice for the greater good of the country.

The Union’s interest is above local interest, the Union’s laws transcend our laws and legislations, the Union’s policy is our policy, and the Union’s government priorities are our government’s priorities.

PRINCIPLE 2: NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW Justice is the basis of a strong and proud nation, and guarantees prosperity and stability. No one is above the law in Dubai, starting with the ruling family. The law does not discriminate between citizens and residents, rich and poor, male and female, Muslims and non-Muslims. Justice delayed is justice denied.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”.

I renounce unfair practice or conduct of any person, and the ruling family shall likewise renounce any form of injustice as long as it governs the Emirate.

PRINCIPLE 3: WE ARE A BUSINESS CAPITAL The Government of Dubai aims to improve the lives of its people by strengthening its economy. Dubai does not invest or involve itself in politics, and does not rely on politics to ensure its competitiveness.

We extend a hand of friendship to all those who hold good intentions towards Dubai and the UAE. Dubai is a politically neutral, businessfriendly global hub that focuses on creating economic opportunities.

PRINCIPLE 4: THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH Dubai’s growth is driven by three factors: a credible, resilient and excellent government; an active, fair and open private sector; and public and government-owned flagship companies that compete globally, and generate an income for the government, jobs for its citizens, and assets for future generations.

The theme for the 2020 edition is ‘Tribute to Leadership’ to commemorate His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, completing 50 years of service to the country. The report, structured according to the 8 Principles of Governance for Dubai unveiled by the charismatic leader in the beginning of the year, captures the efforts by the public and private sector players in driving the green economy within the city, country and beyond.

PRINCIPLE 5: OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY Our society is a respectful and coherent one, bound by tolerance and openness. It distances itself from all forms of discrimination and biases. It is a disciplined society, committed to its promises, timelines and covenants.

We are modest about our successes, perseverant in dealing with challenges, charitable and generous in achieving the greater good, and open to everyone.

PRINCIPLE 6: WE BELIEVE IN ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION Economic diversification has been the foundation of our unwritten constitution in Dubai since 1833.

The changing times and the rapid developments make our commitment to this principle everlasting. Our new goal is to create at least a new economic sector every three years that will be productive, contribute to our GDP, and generate jobs.

PRINCIPLE 7: A LAND FOR TALENT Dubai has always relied on talented tradesmen, administrators, engineers, creatives, and dreamers for its success. The Emirate’s prominence, sustainability and competitiveness depend on its capacity to continue attracting skilled and talented people, and nurturing the brightest minds to generate innovative ideas.

We have to continually review and renew our policies and procedures to ensure our appeal to talented individuals. We must build the best environment in Dubai for the world’s leading minds.

PRINCIPLE 8: WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS The destiny of our future generations must not be affected by the fluctuations of regional politics and global economic cycles.

We invest and create valuable assets for them. Our fundamental rule in this regard is that the government should, under all circumstances, own economic assets that are worth at least 20 times the value of its annual budget.

We work towards maintaining a secure future, and we are focused today on ensuring the prosperity of our future generations.

TABLE OF CONTENTS WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT 2019 World Green Economy Summit: Facilitating Dialogue and Driving Action, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer

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WGES 19 Dubai as a Sustainable Financial Hub the Story so Far

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WGES 19 Opening Ceremony. Now is the Time for Action

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WGES 19 Interview with Dr Matthew Kennedy

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WGES 19 Keynote address, François Hollande

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WGES 19 One on One Conversation with Felipe Calderón

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WGES 19 Youth Contribution to Localising the SDGs and Harnessing Technologies to Achieve Them

WGES 19 One on One Conversation with Juan Manuel Santos

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WGES 19 One on One Conversation with Julia Gillard

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WGES 19 Keynote address, Ban Ki-Moon

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WGES 19 Interview with HE Thoriq Ibrahim

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WGES 19 Interview with HE Mohamed Bin Jarsh Al Falasi

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WGES 19 Sustainability in Private Sector

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WGES 19 Challenges and Solutions for Green Economy

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WGES 19 Interview with Dr Mohamed Gamal Kafafy

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WGES 19 Sustainable Agriculture

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WGES 19 Green Finance and Investments

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WGES 19 Interview with Andreas Spiess

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WGES 19 The Impact of Green Technology on the Green Economy

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WGES 19 Aligning Energy Policy with the SDGs

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WGES 19 WGEO Going Global

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WGES 19 Women In Green Economy

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WGES 19 Gearing Up for the Fight Against Climate Change, Eng Waleed Ali Bin Salman

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Global Commitment to a Green Economy, Dena Assaf

WGES 19 The Journey to Inclusive, Safe, Resilient and Sustainable Cities, Presentation by HE Aisha bint Butti bin Bishr

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

Chapter Statement, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer

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Sustainable Development: Achieving Security, HE Ali Al Jassim, Etihad ESCO

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The Federal Electricity and Water Authority Implements the Water Security Strategy 2036 on Several Axes, Mohammad Mohammad Saleh, FEWA

Chapter Statement, HE Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri

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Sustainable Energy through Innovative Governance, Taher Diab, DSCE

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Embracing Disruptive Innovation: C3 Court

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The Union Knows No Impossible

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The Collision between Climate Change and Environmental Justice, Farida Qtaishat, Dubai Carbon

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Advocating for the Emirati Women, GWU

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Dubai Executive Council: Uniting Entities for a Better Tomorrow

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Dubai Tourism Focuses on Driving Comprehensive Sustainable Measures Across the Hospitality Sector, Yousuf Lootah, DTCM

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Infographics: HH Sheikh Mohmmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

A Timeline of Achievements

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CORSIA and the Future of Aviation Environment, HE Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, GCAA

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Dubai's Environmental Laws are Key in its Happiness and Sustainability, HE Dawoud Abdulrahman Al Hajri, DM

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Infographics: International Conventions Related to the Environment

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CHAPTER 3

WE ARE A BUSINESS CAPITAL Chapter Statement, HE Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi

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Achieving Global Recognition in the Business of Sustainability, DEWA

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Beyond the Pitch: An Entrepreneurship Programme for UAE Youth, START AD

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The Rise of Green and Responsible Investment, Ibrahim Al-Zu’bi, MAF

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On a Mission to Crystallise Innovation, Saeed Measam Al Falasi, DFF

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Dubai South: Business, Energy, and the Tripple Bottom Line, Ismail Al Marzouqi, Shohaib Al Rahimi

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Innovate Incubate Venture. Unique Incubators of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, HCT

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Infographics: 2017 Number of Enterprises in UAE by Economic Activity

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CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH Chapter Statement, HE Sami Dhaen Al Qamzi

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY 98

Chapter Statement, HE Lana Zaki Nusseibeh

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Powering MENA for a Brighter Tomorrow, ACWA Power

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Suqia UAE: A Water-secure World for All, Suqia UAE

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Investing in Shared Prosperity, HE Fahad Al Gergawi, Dubai FDI

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Role of Free Zones in Advancing Growth, Progress and Prosperity, Dr Samir Hamrouni, Dr Mohan Guruswamy, World FZO

A Unique, Tolerant and Responsible Society, Habiba Al Mar'ashi, EEG

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The UAE Women Driving Climate Action, Tara Tariq, Dubai Carbon

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En Route to Growth, HE Mattar Al Tayer, RTA

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134

Fossil Fuels and Renewables in the 21 Century: A Complementary Blend, HE Saif Humaid l Falasi, ENOC

Fostering Tolerance through Social Responsibility, Emirates Foundation

112 114

How Dubai's Eight Principles Influenced Green Preservation, Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Emirates Nature-WWF

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Data-driven Public Sector Growth, Sarah Talib, MBRSG When Women Work, Economies Grow! Florence Fontani, Engie

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Social Prosperity through Inclusion and Empowerment, HE Ahmad Julfar, CDA

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Driving Sustainable Growth in Built Environments, Saeed Al Abbar, EmiratesGBC

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Infographics: The Year of Tolerance Factsheet

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A Partnership with the UAE’s Private Sector to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, FCSA

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Infographics: Foreign Direct Investment into Dubai’s Green Economy Sectors 2003 - 2019

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CHAPTER 6

WE BELIEVE IN ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION 142

Chapter Statement, HE Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi The Many Facets of DEWA, DEWA

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Hydrogen – the Newcomer, Fatima Al-Foora Al Shamsi, MOEI

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Energy Efficiency is a Key Building Block of a Diversified and Green Economy, Stephane le Gentil, Engie

148

Solar Energy: The Shaping of a New and More Sustainable Economic Paradigm, Martine Mamlouk, MESIA

150

The Science Sector is a Pathway to Economic Diversification, Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, DSP

152

How the Fourth Industrial Revolution Can Drive Economic Growth, DFF

154

Diversifying the Economy with Alternate Lower Cost Sources of Energy, Paddy Padmanathan, ACWA Power

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The Namoos of Economic Diversification in Sustainable Development, Faisal Kittana, Dubai Carbon

160

Creating Opportunities for Economic Growth and Diversification, Abdulla Kalban, EGA

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Infographics: Annual CO2 Emissions per Country. Top 10 Emitting Countries.

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CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

A LAND FOR TALENT

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

Chapter Statement, HE Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi

166

Chapter Statement, HE Aisha bint Butti bin Bishr

182

Interview with Abdulla Kalban, EGA

168

184

A Land of Talent, Federal Youth Authority

170

Embedding the Value of Conservation in Future Generations, DEWA

Empowering Youth Throug h the Power of Digital, Iman Al Qasim, ENOC

172

Expo 2020 Dubai is Helping to ‘Create the Future’. Here’s How... Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali, Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau

186

Zayed’s Green Legacy, Khalifa University

174

A Land for Talent: Building Regional Talent Capability for the Future, Engie

176

Nurturing Talent for Better Tomorrow, Faizan Rahim, Dubai Carbon

178

Infographics: Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2019

180

MBRSC Empowers Emirati Youth in Space, MBRSC

188

Awarding Sustainable Solutions, Suqia UAE

190

The Future Starts Now, Dr Abdulla Al Karam, KHDA

192

Investing in the Future: Empowering the Young, MoCCAE

194

Youth – Leaders of the Future, Hany Torky, UNDP

196

Infographics: Green Jobs

198

Aknowledgements

201

Sponsor Company Profiles

202

See You Next Year

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20– 21 October 2019 2019 ‫ أﻛﺘﻮﺑﺮ‬21-20 Dubai, United Arab Emirates ‫اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ اﻟﻤﺘﺤﺪة‬

،‫دﺑﻲ‬

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES FOR A SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT 2019 FOCUSSED ON THE FOLLOWING THEMES:

TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT WGES 2019 WILL LOOK AT THE PROGRESS MADE TOWARDS ACHIEVING THE SDGS, ESPECIALLY ACROSS THE PRIVATE SECTOR, WHICH IS A MAIN PARTNER IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. POLICYMAKERS AND SUSTAINABILITY EXPERTS WILL IDENTIFY THE BIGGEST BARRIERS TO THIS TRANSITION, WHILE LOOKING AT WAYS TO INCREASE CLEAN ENERGY AND WATER ACCESS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES.

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION TOWARDS A GREEN ECONOMY SYSTEM WGES 2019 WILL DISCUSS THE IMPORTANCE OF GLOBAL COOPERATION IN REALISING THE SDGS AND THE POLICIES THAT COULD FACILITATE SUCH COLLABORATIVE WORK. IT WILL EXPLORE THE IDEAL INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE THAT IS NEEDED FOR ACHIEVING THE SDGS, LOOKING AT AREAS SUCH AS PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TRADE LIBERALISATION, PROVIDING FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, AND DEALING WITH INTERNATIONAL DEBT.

ADOPTION OF GREEN INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS WGES 2019 WILL LOOK AT WAYS IN WHICH BUSINESSES CAN USE INNOVATION AS A TOOL TO ENABLE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND REALISE THE SDGS. ENVIRONMENTAL EXPERTS, TECHNOLOGISTS AND BUSINESS LEADERS WILL SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS ON HOW TO SPUR INNOVATION IN THE COMMERCIAL SPHERE AND HOW TO SCALE EXISTING INNOVATIONS ACROSS INDUSTRIES AND MARKETS.

WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT:

FACILITATING DIALOGUE AND DRIVING ACTION

By HE SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY; MD & CEO OF DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY; CHAIRMAN OF WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT

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nder the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Minister of Finance and President of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) inaugurated the 6th World Green Economy Summit (WGES 2019) at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. WGES was organised by DEWA and World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) on 20—21 October 2019. It has made considerable progress since its beginnings in

2014, especially given the close progress and partnerships between the public and private sectors to focus on sustainable development.

The opening ceremony was attended by HE Azali Assoumani, President of the Comoros, Ban

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During the Summit, we reinforced our commitment to strengthen partnerships in advancing innovative solutions, including public-private partnerships, as well as encouraging women and youth to play a more mainstream role in this sustainable journey.

Ki-moon, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations; François Hollande, Former President of France; Felipe Calderón, Former President of Mexico; Julia Gillard, Former Prime Minister of Australia, HE Ovais Sarmad, Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), among other dignitaries.

This year’s summit focused on three key pillars: Sustainable Development Mechanisms, International Cooperation to support the Green Economy System, and Adoption of Green Innovative Solutions.

Global efforts notwithstanding, there are still many challenges ahead. Global warming remains a major issue and nations need to join together in concerted efforts, to shape a better and brighter future for our planet. WGES continues to create a meaningful dialogue to bring nations together for a sustainable environment to support long-term economic growth, in accordance with the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sustainability and green economy are of utmost priority for all of us and there is a growing consensus that the shift towards green economy is the way forward to brighter and prosperous future, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 play an instrumental role to put the framework in place to achieve this transition. Achieving these goals provides a foundation for the implementation of green strategies to accelerate green growth.

The Summit also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development worldwide. The establishment of the Regional Cooperation Centre (RCC) for the Middle East and North Africa, as well as hosting of Regional Ministerial Conferences by WGEO on Green Economy to enhance cooperation between the countries of the world is a testament of global efforts to march towards a sustainable future.

WGES 2019 also highlighted the necessity to adopt green innovative solutions, and looked into ways that could spur innovation for sustainable development and economic growth. The UAE has been at the forefront of countries to adopt innovative solutions. During the Summit, we reinforced our commitment to strengthen partnerships in advancing innovative solutions, including public-private partnerships, as well as encouraging women and youth to play a more mainstream role in this sustainable journey.

While 2019 Summit was great, the next one in 2020 will be even larger and greater, and will be held at the Expo 2020 Dubai site. True to its theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, the Summit will also foster effective capacity development at all levels and for all stakeholders to transition to a green economy.

On this note, I encourage and urge every nation on our precious planet to join us in mobilising efforts, exchange ideas, and strengthen global solidarity to address climate change.

About HE SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER HE Saeed Mohammed Ahmad Al Tayer has an overall experience of more than 34 years in the field of telecommunications, energy, water, infrastructure, oil, gas and industry.

Under his leadership since 1992, DEWA achieved unprecedented successes and has become one of the very best distinguished utilities in all aspects worldwide.

As an initiative of his own, several successful companies were established, including Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (EMPOWER), Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad ESCO), Mai Dubai and many other companies.

His Excellency is a member of Dubai Executive Council and Strategic Affairs Council, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE), Chairman of Dubai Smart City Office, Vice Chairman of Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), Vice Chairman of Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), Vice Chairman of Dragon Oil Company, Chairman of UAE Water Aid (SUQIA) Board Of Trustees, Chairman of World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), and Chairman of Dubai Future Council On Energy. He was Chairman of the Infrastructure and Environment Committee – Dubai Executive Council – during the period from 2006 up to 2017. In addition, His Excellency is a member, vice chairman, or chairman of various high-level committees and higher leading councils in the Emirate of Dubai.

His Excellency received a number of prestigious awards such as the “Middle East Champion of Energy” award received at the World Green Economy Summit 2015 from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). On 18 May 2016, the UNDP appointed His Excellency as “UNDP National Goodwill Ambassador for Sustainable Development Goals”.

In addition, the Swiss Business Council, Dubai & Northern Emirates awarded His Excellency the prestigious “Lord of Matterhorn Award”. Moreover, His Excellency received an honorary doctorate from Amity University in Dubai in appreciation of his continuing innovative efforts to achieve excellence and enhance scientific knowledge and sustainability.

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WGES OPENING CEREMONY

NOW IS THE TIME FOR ACTION O

ctober 20th, 2019 - HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Minister of Finance and President of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), inaugurated the sixth World Green Economy Summit (WGES) at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The opening ceremony was attended by HE Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment; HE Azali Assoumani, President of the Comoros; HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Chairman of WGES; Ban Ki-moon, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations; François Hollande, Former President of France; Felipe Calderón, Former President of Mexico; Julia Gillard, Former Prime Minister of Australia; and HE Ovais Sarmad, Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

WGES is one of the largest forums on the green economy, bringing together thousands of decision-makers from public and private sectors from around the world. Held in Dubai, UAE, the annual event serves as a strategic meeting point to establish dialogue, activate partnerships and exchange experiences. WGES invites policymakers, government officials, international business leaders and world-renowned experts to discuss strategies that can advance sustainability and promote green investments.

2019 marked the sixth edition of WGES, organised under the slogan “Innovative Technologies for a Sustainable Economy”. The three themes featured were Towards Sustainable Development, International Cooperation Towards a Green Economy System and Adoption of Green Innovative Solutions.

“The sixth World Green Economy Summit’s theme is ‘Innovative Technologies for a Sustainable Economy,’ and it derives its agenda from His Highness Sheikh

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s forward-thinking directives to balance economic growth with the sustainability of natural and environmental resources,” said HE Saeed Al Tayer in his keynote speech.

“This supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, UAE Centennial 2071, UAE Vision 2021, UAE Green Agenda 2030, Dubai Plan 2021, and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050. Within this framework, our achievements, projects and initiatives continue to strengthen the UAE’s pioneering position in the use of clean and renewable energy globally,” Al Tayer added.

In his keynote address, HE Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, connected past and the future initiatives related to green energy of the UAE: “Since its inception in 1971, the UAE has spared no effort to protect its environment and natural resources. As part of this priority, in line with overarching efforts to establish the UAE among the best countries in the world across sectors, our wise leadership is driving the transition to a green economy through devising multiple

legislative frameworks. These include the UAE Green Agenda 2030, the National Climate Change Plan of the UAE 2017-2050, the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, UAE Vision 2021, and the UAE Centennial 2071.

Furthermore, over the past few years, the country has implemented a wide range of sustainabilityfocused projects in various sectors that have opened up promising opportunities for economic growth.

2018, in particular, witnessed the establishment of several public and private ventures that support the transition to a green economy in energy, agriculture, water, infrastructure, and housing.”

SUCCESSFUL AND INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES BY ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY In his keynote speech, HE Eng Awaidha Al Marar, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE), emphasised the importance of WGES in “establishing the principles of cooperation and partnership among all stakeholders around the world as we strive towards the creation of a green future.“ Al Marar continued by presenting the successful initiatives of DoE: “At Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, we are proud to participate in these efforts and to contribute to the success of local and global efforts to protect the environment and sustain natural resources by setting policies, systems and strategies that aim to leverage the energy sector’s strengths to build a green economy.

To this end, limiting oil and gas usage has become a strategic priority for Abu Dhabi. ADNOC has succeeded in significantly reducing gas consumption, which at times reached as low as 0% in the Zakum fields.”

During the opening ceremony, HE Ovais Sarmad, Deputy Executive Secretary for the UNFCCC, announced the official launch of the Regional Collaboration Centre Dubai (RCC Dubai), a collaboration between UN Climate Change and the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) dedicated to advancing the goals of the Paris Climate Change Agreement in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia.

RCC Dubai is dedicated to the objectives of the UNFCCC, the Kyoto Protocol, including through tools such as the Clean Development Mechanism, and the Paris Agreement. RCC Dubai’s portfolio consists of a range of projects designed to fill knowledge gaps in adaptation to climate change; create strategies to access climate finance; increase regional participation in global climate action; strengthen the capacity of youth to contribute to the regional and global response to climate change; and introduce methodologies and tools to address climate change.

During his keynote speech, Sarmad said, “The pattern of climate change has the power to devastate lives and civilisation. The areas where we grow our food, our water resources and our ecosystems are all under attack. Climate change is defining the existence of our time and in a defining moment, we must decide what kind of world we pass to our future generations. It is the question for the present, the future and the legacy we leave behind. It is a question that must be answered with actions.”

INNOVATIVE PROJECTS

DoE also launched a new desalination plant in Taweelah power and water complex with a capacity of 200 million imperial gallons per day, which will increase desalination capacity in the Emirate from 13% currently to 30% by the end of 2022, and the Abu Dhabi Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalisation Strategy 2030, which consists of nine major programmes that aim to reduce electricity consumption by 22% and water by 32% by 2030.

“Recently, the world’s biggest solar photovoltaic plant of 1,177MW Noor Abu Dhabi at Sweihan was commissioned on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model. Dubai continues its work by building the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum (MBR) Solar Park to achieve the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.

This will be the largest single-site solar park in the world, which will have a capacity of 5,000 megawatts by 2030, generated from a range of photovoltaic and concentrated solar power technologies,” said Al Tayer in his keynote speech.

THE LAUNCH OF THE REGIONAL COLLABORATION CENTRE DUBAI

As well as the projects in Dubai, DEWA is constructing the region’s first Pumped-Storage hydroelectric

Climate change is defining the existence of our time and in a defining moment, we must decide what kind of world we pass to our future generations.

HE OVAIS SARMAD, DEPUTY EXECUTIVE SECRETARY, UNFCCC

power plant on Hatta Dam, using solar power for pumping and storage.

The plant will store up to 1500 megawatt hours. This is in addition to the Green Hydrogen Project, the first solar-powered green hydrogen electrolysis facility in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. This project uses clean energy to produce green hydrogen that will be stored and deployed for different uses.

APPRECIATION ON THE IMPACT OF WGES Former Secretary-General of the UN, Ban Ki Moon, during his keynote thanked the organisers of the summit for advancing green growth of the international community. “We have always strived towards sustainable growth, which has been our top agenda, and forums such as WGES help energise, address and maximise the multi-stakeholder partnership,” he said. “The rock of the forum this year is to discuss sustainable issues, which will serve as an important step in securing sustainable security for generations to come. Now is the time for action,” he added.

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n his keynote speech, François Hollande reminded participants of the WGES about the importance of the Paris Agreement. “The Paris Agreement was [designed to] create awareness about climate change, but it was an agreement to bring to focus the certain commitment needed to fight climate change and global warming. The climate change issues taking place around the world are having repercussions on the planet. We cannot work on our own without support; that’s why we need to meet in forums like these, to extend our expertise and knowledge. These not only serve as a base, but also help us arrive at common solutions, including green finance, which is the need of the hour,” he said.

The former President, while highlighting the efforts of his country to tackle climate change, touched upon the issue of financial constraints.

“The financial problems are of hundred and millions of dollars and we are not even close to collecting this sum,” he stated and requested developed countries to contribute financially to help developing nations tackle climate change.

François Hollande stressed the inclusion of youth and women in sustainability and thanked the organisers of the summit for advancing the green growth of the international community. Hollande said, “The young generation has mobilised dramatically and there is increase in pressure. Young people are committing to saving our planet and are expressing this willingness. We need to amplify our efforts and accelerate this transition and that is why a forum like this is important to showcase that it’s possible to act and this action will eventually have results.”

KEY NOTE ADDRESS

FRANÇOIS HOLLANDE

FORMER PRESIDENT OF FRANCE

ONE ON ONE CONVERSATION WITH

FELIPE CALDERÓN

FORMER PRESIDENT OF MEXICO

D

uring WGES, Felipe Calderon, former President of Mexico, shared his beliefs about the economic case for fighting climate change. “If we continue to open up new opportunities for transformative change in coming years, it is possible to make some smart choices and brave decisions,” he said, highlighting three key systems that should be changed.

“Firstly, we need to change the cities we build. We need to make space for over one billion people who will come to live in the cities in the next 12 years. Secondly, we need to regulate the lands and stimulate the new green agricultural revolution. By doing so, we will be able to provide income, food and better quality of life for the poorest families in the world. Thirdly, we must produce energy with cleaner technologies and use that energy in a more efficient way, creating new business opportunities and jobs.”

In fighting climate change, Calderon believes collaboration is a must. “There is no other way to get things done. You need to find a way in which governments, private initiatives, visitors, consumers and even activists work together to achieve goals.” Calderon strongly believes in the economic case for fighting climate change. The former President is part of The Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, a major international initiative examining how countries can achieve economic growth while dealing with the risks posed by climate change.

The Commission comprises former heads of government and finance ministers and leaders in the fields of economics and business.

“We need to make the economic case for fighting climate change. In my own experience, I used to pay almost 5000 pesos (AED 960) per month for energy consumption. My family is currently paying less than 200 pesos (AED 39) per month, after having installed solar panels on the roof. The rate of return is really high, a real benefit for myself and a good benefit for the environment. Energy saving can be seen in many cases, for industries, businesses, people and consumers. We need to provide information related to the profitability of good behaviour, because the old perception that you need to choose between growth and profits and responsibility is still prevailing.”

Calderon acknowledged the UAE’s commitment to the future and supporting alternatives ways of growing and mentioned scientific and technological research relatable to energy storage and carbon capturing sequestration as a way to offset future emissions and preserve the environment.

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ONE ON ONE CONVERSATION WITH

JUAN MANUEL SANTOS FORMER PRESIDENT OF COLOMBIA

T

he UAE has made incredible effort towards lowering the price of alternative energy, according to former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos. He foresees a more sustainable future for the UAE, due to the country’s efforts in making renewable energy profitable to attract investments, educating people, and putting the correct policies in place.

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning former President is seen as a bold leader with transformational ideas. He expanded his country’s protected areas from 12% to 27% of the national territory – a real achievement – and effectively protected the forests against the encroachment of agriculture. In addition, Santos increased marine protected areas from 1.2 million to 12.8 million hectares, another key achievement. He is also responsible for removing the mining presence from several strategic Colombian ecosystems, like mangroves and coral reefs. Today, Colombia is the second-most diverse country in the world, just behind Brazil. The nation is working on an ambitious green agenda for 2030: the Green Growth Plan.

In conversation with Susannah Streeter, Senior Anchor, BBC, at the annual World Green Economy Summit (WGES) held in Dubai, Santos spoke about how it all began and the challenges he faced in making it all possible. “Just before being sworn in as President, the leaders of Colombia’s oldest indigenous communities presented me with a stick that symbolises power and asked me to make peace, but also make peace with Mother Nature. A week later, the country was hit by the worst natural disaster and for two years I handled flooding all over the country. This directed me towards the need to protect the

environment and fight climate change,” he said. “Mining was destroying Colombia’s special ecosystems and I had to fight a difficult legal battle to establish a policy that made mining illegal in these areas. We also had to contest expansion of agricultural frontiers because it would destroy our rainforests,” he said.

Santos stressed the need for greater political will to combat climate change and pleaded with the international community to play their part. “I know many countries, including mine, have to defend their sovereignty, but when it comes to saving the world and saving the lungs of the world, which is the Amazon, the international community has to be much more involved,” he said, expressing regret over the recent mass fires in Brazil. With immense confidence in the younger generation, Santos said, “Adapting to fast-changing technology is more difficult for the older generation than the younger ones.

Therefore, the younger generation is being more empowered and because they are more sensitive, they will have more capacity to change things”.

Speaking about the future, he concluded, “After the Second World War, the most dangerous threat was the possibility of nuclear war, and it still is a possibility. But we have something worse that’s a certainty: climate change. If we don’t act now, we will perish. So we must act, and we must act fast. I think with meetings like this one and progress like Dubai has made, we have a future”.

ONE ON ONE CONVERSATION WITH

JULIA GILLARD

FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA

T

he second day of WGES 2019 had an impressive line-up of speakers, including Australia’s first female Prime Minister, Julia Gillard. There is no doubt she is a force to be reckoned with – the energy in the room when she entered was testament to that. Her insightful conversation with moderator Roy Sheppard left the audience with much to consider. It began with the question that was on everyone’s minds, which was the historical significance of Gillard’s role in office.

“When I think of my country, Australia, I don’t put it in the basket of uniquely male dominated. I think our society shows we’re still in an era of change; we’re still in a time where women aren’t always treated equally and it is still quite unusual for women to come through for leadership in politics, business, the law, news media, technology and the list goes on,” said Gillard.

“What we do know is that if a woman makes it to leadership, that role model effect has profound implications for generations to follow. There’s this old saying that if you can’t see it, you can’t be it. Unless young women and girls see female leaders, it is much harder for them to imagine aspiring to that job,” she added.

Gillard was Australian Prime Minister from 2010-2013. Her top three priorities during her time, and now, are mental health, education for young women in poor countries and women in leadership. In her opinion, one of these is the key to climate change. “I think education has got everything to do with

sustainability. If every girl in the world today received a secondary school education, peak global population would be two billion people less, drastically reducing the global carbon footprint,” she said.

“Many climate scientists and economists say that the single, most cost-effective investment to change our climate is educating girls. This is because educated women tend to marry later, have fewer children and those children will be more likely to survive infanthood, go to school and be vaccinated.

This would result in an upward cycle towards not only peace and prosperity, but also climate sustainability,” she continued.

When asked about her life after politics as a public servant to the world, Gillard said the following: “In the work of the Global Partnership for Education, where I chair the board of directors, we have changed and touched the lives of more than 70 million children in 67 countries around the world.

We can now chart increases in access to schooling, the quality of schooling and consequently, a different life path for those children as compared to living in poverty,” she said.

Gillard also spoke about finding her passion and purpose early on in life, and went on to encourage everyone to search for theirs, in order to make a change in not only their lives, but also the lives of others.

23

E

ven the most resourceful countries have been hit by climate change and in some areas, like Central America, the damages sometimes cost more than 200% of the country’s GDP. In his keynote address on the first day of the World Green Economy Summit 2019, in Dubai, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, urged the world’s political leaders to put more emphasis on implementing the United Nation’s Sustainability Development Goals for the sake of a safer world to live in. “From heat waves to wildfires, typhoons, and hurricanes of historic intensity, there is no country in this world, however resourceful, however rich they may be, safe from the perils of global warming and climate change,” said Ban Ki-moon. “Think beyond yourselves, your companies and your countries. We do not have a Plan B because we do not have a Planet B. We have no time to spare.”

According to Ban Ki-moon, world leaders must expand their ambitions and focus on the following core areas to accelerate the sustainability movement: continuing discussions on climate change, green economy, SDGs and political engagement and partnerships. “Make multi-stakeholder partnerships, partnerships of governments, business communities, civil communities, and civil society,” he advised.

Ban Ki-moon also drew attention to the need to educate young people on the importance of climate change and address it from the primary level at schools, as well as the including women. “This process will be incomplete unless young people and women are included. Without women’s engagement and participation, there will be no climate and sustainable development,” he said.

KEY NOTE ADDRESS

BAN KI-MOON

FORMER SECRETARY-GENERAL OF THE UNITED NATIONS

INTERVIEW WITH

HE THORIQ IBRAHIM FORMER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY OF THE MALDIVES DO YOU THINK THE WORLD IS MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION TOWARDS GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY - ENVIRONMENTALLY, ECONOMICALLY, AND SOCIALLY? WHAT INITIATIVES IMPLEMENTED ABROAD DO YOU SEE BEING ADOPTED IN THE UAE? The world currently faces many challenges. The window of opportunity to address climate change is fast passing by, and without raising the bar on our efforts, the future will be disastrous for many people across the globe.

The political movement towards sustainability has been growing strong, and the voices are getting louder. This movement has been informed by science, by economics, and by on-the-ground reality. Unfortunately, there have also been counter movements attempting to stymie this. These movements are misinformed and myopic on appreciating the global challenges and the real impacts on people that climate change and environmental degradation pose.

We must overcome these movements and rhetoric and intensify our efforts towards sustainability. This requires not just governments working in tandem, but also the support of the private sector, as well as a behavioural and mindset changes from every individual.

The UAE has been making important headway towards sustainability in recent years. The Mohamed bin Rashid al Maktoum Solar Park, the Dubai Sa’fat initiative and the Estidama frameworks demonstrate these commitments.

Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai also launched the Green Mobility initiative, attempting to revamp transportation towards sustainability. Here, I think two things need to be highlighted: the importance of political leadership and the necessity of having a forward-looking and ambitious vision. The UAE has both.

The question then is how to scale-up and build on these efforts. The scientific community has been telling us that achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement needs an increase in ambition. Urgently. The UAE, with its thriving business sector and commitment to sustainability can make an important contribution to this effort. Innovation will remain a key part of the puzzle. We must always consider how we will build on and capitalise on the next generation of solutions for the environmental challenges we face today.

WHICH RECENT POLICIES, REGULATIONS, LAWS, OR STRATEGIES DO YOU FIND TO BE INNOVATIVE AND PREDICT TO HAVE A GREAT IMPACT IN TRANSFORMING ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE? There have been many policy changes and interventions adopted at both global and national levels that can lead to transformative change in environmental governance. The decision to tackle plastics through the Basel Convention was a landmark agreement that recognises the environmental and potential health impacts of unmanaged plastics and pollution. Already governments have taken important steps in banning or phasing out single-use plastics.

We have to recognise that one policy alone cannot make the transformative change we want to see. It is only through collective and holistic policy changes we can see change. For business, this means creating a conducive environment for innovation, research, risk management and so on. For consumers, this means policies that enhance consumer choice, improving information on what they buy and how their purchases affect the

environment. For governments, this means working on multiple fronts to strengthen legal and regulatory frameworks and incentivise sustainability practices.

The UAE Vision 2021, Dubai Plan 2021, UAE Green Agenda 2030, Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, and UAE Centennial 2071 provide important strategic direction for the nation. Work on integrating technology and innovation into forward-looking goals will be a critical factor in transforming vision to reality. With the progress the UAE has been making on clean-energy projects, and in creating a conducive environment for green jobs and growth, I think the future looks promising.

While we have seen many examples of commendable policies and regulations, we should not rely on single, standalone polices.

Indeed, significant change requires transformative change across the board in all policies, regulation and strategies.

25

INTERVIEW WITH

HE MOHAMED BIN JARSH AL FALASI

UNDERSECRETARY, ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY DO YOU THINK THE WORLD IS MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION TOWARDS GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY – ENVIRONMENTALLY, ECONOMICALLY, AND SOCIALLY? I believe we are headed in the right direction, but progress is slow.

Changing an ingrained fossil-fuel paradigm and its attendant cultures won’t happen overnight. However, some major industries have started taking solid steps to move towards sustainable business. The aviation industry is one of these and is trying to reduce carbon emissions through using alternative greener fuels.

In Abu Dhabi’s energy sector, environmental sustainability is one of our main strategic drivers. For example, we are in the initial stages of a massive investment programme in renewable energy, and Abu Dhabi has this year inaugurated the world largest Solar PV plant – Noor Abu Dhabi.

This adds to a significant investment in clean energy with the nuclear power plant, currently in its final construction stage.

For the third pillar; society – education and awareness are the main factors to change behaviour. Encouraging the community to become more sustainable helps its members play an active role in reducing the impact of climate change. While there are a number of ongoing awareness campaigns and educational material related to this, we still need to work on delivering these to every community around the globe.

In this respect, we recently launched Abu Dhabi’s Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalisation Strategy 2030, which will play a crucial role in managing efficiency in the end-use of water and electricity in the emirate.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES IN ENSURING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME? New technology and innovation is critical if we are to face sustainability challenges today and in the future. The role of new technology in the energy transition is evident, one of the best examples being the dramatic development of wind and solar PV technology and the corresponding reduction in prices over the last 10 years. This impact is so important that today, these two technologies are among the cheapest source of energy in the world.

We anticipate technology and innovation will play an ever-more important role in ensuring a revolution in the way the world uses energy and progressively intensifying the energy transition. The role of electrical vehicles and new fuels for aviation will be fundamental in changing the energy paradigm in transportation. In addition, consumers are taking a more active role, with a number of enabling technologies such as IoT-enabled/connected devices, appliances, embedded generation and energy storage solutions.

THE WORLD IS TRANSITIONING TO RENEWABLES. WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS’ DEPENDENCY ON NON-RENEWABLE ENERGY AND DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO GO FOSSIL FREE? Fossil fuel is one of the main pillars of the world’s energy sector and the same goes for Abu Dhabi. We cannot immediately dispose of such an

important resource from the portfolio. What we aspire to is to keep enhancing our energy transition journey towards higher levels of efficiency and sustainability in this sector.

This is what the UAE considered in announcing the national Energy Strategy 2050, which addresses both the supply and demand sides of the energy equation. In Abu Dhabi, we are committed to meeting the requirements of this national strategy, which is considered a contribution to the Paris Agreement and sets a clean energy target of 24% by 2021.

For total power generation capacity by 2050, the strategy outlined targets of 44% renewable energy; 38% natural gas; 12% ‘clean coal’; and 6% nuclear energy. It also targets a 40% improvement in energy efficiency in all sectors compared to a business-as-usual trajectory, in addition to a 70% deviation in CO2 emissions from power generation by 2050.

PRESENTATION BY

HE DR AISHA BINT BUTTI BIN BISHR

DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE SMART DUBAI OFFICE resources to drive progress towards our goal,” said HE Dr Bin Bishr.

H

E Dr Aisha Bint Butti Bin Bishr is the Director General of the Smart Dubai Office, the government entity entrusted with Dubai’s city-wide smart transformation by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

HE Dr Bin Bishr started her WGES presentation by emphasising the importance of cities and the impact they have on the environment. “Cities are the cradles of human civilisation, in which a majority of human beings live and a large majority of natural and man-made resources are consumed. Geographically, they take up 3% of our planet, yet more than half of the world’s population now lives in urban areas. These urban areas consume 75% of natural resources, produce 60 to 80% of greenhouse gas emissions, and generate 50% of all waste.

Cities contribute an estimated 80% of gross domestic product (GDP) globally.

Our social, economic, and environmental challenges are mostly manifested in urban environments.”

Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) – part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) – is to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. “We at Smart Dubai can play a powerful role in achieving this goal. As you know, Smart Dubai’s vision is to make Dubai not only the smartest, but the happiest place, where we provide safe, seamless and personal experiences for our residents and visitors.”

As the SDG 11 goal links closely with the mission of Smart Dubai, HE Dr Bin Bishr is also the Chairperson for the SDG 11 Global Council. The SDG Global Councils were launched in February 2018 at the World Government Summit in Dubai, UAE. “I am honored to be the chairperson for the SDG 11 Global Council. The mission of this council is to formulate pragmatic, multi-stakeholder, widely applicable SDG 11 solutions for cities and to implement selective pilot initiatives by utilising the formulated frameworks. It will strive to find innovative solutions for the implementation of SDG 11 globally. The aim is to provide actionable insights and purposeful policies, develop technological solutions and mobilise

“In our first phase of the council 2018-2019, we formulated a high-level framework for the implementation of the goal by cities.” The framework intends to assist nations and cities to assess their current position with respect to SDG11 targets, understand the gaps through a data-driven evidence based scheme, formulate a high-level pragmatic and actionable approach for closing their gaps through targeted action items, and exchange knowledge and practices among themselves.

The SDG11 high-level implementation framework formulated by SDG11-GC consists of the following steps: baseline, innovate, implement, assess.

As part of the second phase, taking place between 2019 and 2020, the SDG 11 Global Council is working with cities and their urban observatories to assess five SDG11 indicators in 10 cities. The result will be published in the World Urban Forum 2020, in Abu Dhabi.

“The initiative is called 5 by 10 by 20, which will allow us to have a better understanding of cities’ current positions with respect to their SDG11 target. We are exploring the option to expand the number of indicators and the number of cities next year,” said HE Dr Bin Bishr.

Other initiatives launched by the SDG 11 GC include the Solutions Repository, a public platform to share guides for the implementation of solutions specific to the indicators within SDG11, the SDG11 Twinning Program, a platform to couple low and high progressing cities around the world, and the Financelerator, an accelerator for financing SDG11 projects, as there is a huge demand for financing by cities to implement their urban projects to meet SDG11 targets.

27

ALIGNING ENERGY

POLICY WITH THE SDGS

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he World Green Economy Summit (WGES) 2019 first plenary session was possibly its most crucial. It was an insightful discussion on how to ensure the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be met by 2030.

The SDGs were developed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 and are part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The agenda includes 17 SDGs built on the principle of “leaving no one behind”.

They are:

years’ experience in energy and sustainable development. “ Finn Mortensen, Executive Director of State of Green went on to explain what he does. “Our job is to foster relations with international stakeholders. Denmark has recently made a number of new efforts in terms of the Sustainable Development Goals to make sure the country gives what it can to the UN to help achieve these goals.”

Finally, Thoriq Ibrahim, spoke on a cause dear to his heart, “I’m a strong advocate of the plight of small island states due to impacts of climate change. I chaired the Alliance of Small Islands States for four years, representing 44 small island states during a crucial period of UN negotiations on climate change and sustainable development.”

The discussion moved towards a question directed at Dr Waddah. “Can you give us an overview of the importance of energy policy and how it drives and is linked to the behaviors within a country?”

Sheppard asked.

The panel was moderated by former BBC news anchor Roy Sheppard, with the following speakers: Thoriq Ibrahim, Former Minister of Environment and Energy of the Maldives; Mohamed G Kafafy, President of the World Green Economy Council (WGECO); Finn Mortensen, Executive Director of the State of Green; and Dr Waddah S Ghanem Al Hashmi, Senior Director of Sustainability, Operational and Business Excellence at Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC) LLC Ltd. Roy Sheppard kicked off the panel by asking each speaker to give a short introduction, starting with Dr Waddah S Ghanem Al Hashmi.

Dr Al Hashmi described his role at ENOC as, “to help the organisation set policies for sustainability. The interesting thing about this role is that a lot of the focus is on building efficiencies on what we do as an organisation.”

Next, Mohamed G Kafafy relayed to the audience and panel members some examples from his impressive portfolio. “I hold a PhD in Engineering Management and have about 25

“The most important thing to understand about energy policy is that it does not stand on its own – it is linked to other policies. For example, 10 years ago, we talked about investing in biofuels. It sounded like a great idea, but we realised that moving into biofuels would have an impact on energy prices. As a result, the energy policy could not be considered, which shows how it does not stand on its own,” said Dr. Waddah. “In the context of this particular session, which talks about how energy policy drives the SDGs, it is imperative that all stakeholders, both on the supply and demand side of the energy mix, work together to create a balance, concentrating on all SDGs equally. There is also a need to ensure the energy policy itself is dynamic enough to deal with all of the current changes the sustainable economy is going through,” he added.

The next question was directed at HE Thoriq Ibrahim. “Climate change has drastically impacted the Maldives, a very small country and series of islands. What experience does your government have in developing strategies to combat the dire effects rising sea levels could have on your nation?” Sheppard asked.

“The Maldives only emits 0.03 per

cent of global carbon emissions, so the bigger countries need to help us reduce the impact of climate change. Whatever we do now in the Maldives, we do with the goal of survival. Even our buildings are designed in a way to survive the impact of rising sea levels. The first step is survival, and then we have to align our energy policies with the SDGs,” he said.

Sheppard went on to ask what Ibrahim considered the key things larger, more industrialised countries could do to help nations such as the Maldives.

“Our islands are dispersed, and as a result, each island has its own power generation system, water production system and sewage system. For us to have these systems running efficiently, we import fuel from abroad. 20% of our GDP is spent on fossil fuel. If we want to make our islands sustainable, we need to implement proper renewable-energy systems on all of the islands. To do so, we need access to green finance, which developed countries are capable of providing,” Ibrahim said.

Finn Mortensen gave his opinion on how Denmark and other Scandinavian countries, which have been visionary in terms of green energy, have changed their policies over the years. “The rationale behind green energy back then was a situation in the 70s, when we were dependent on imported oil. We had no natural resources, so we needed to diversify our energy structure.

Now, 40% of our energy consumption comes from renewables,” he said.

Sheppard asked Mohamed G Kafafy how to get larger countries to move towards green energy.

“Many larger countries believe the move towards renewable energy is optional, not mandatory. It’s essential to implement energy policies such as carbon taxes to ensure all nations, big and small, are doing everything in their power to become more sustainable,” he said.

The members also collectively called upon the youth to put their energies into educating themselves to be able to lead the fight against climate change and ensure future green economies worldwide.

29

WOMEN IN

GREEN ECONOMY

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prosperous and sustainable future requires consistent cooperation from all segments of society. Everyone has a role to play and women are key players, contributing towards a green economy as well as ensuring environmental stability for future generations.

Susannah Streeter, Anchor for the World Business Report on the BBC World Service and BBC World TV, moderated the Women in Green Economy session during the World Green Economy Summit 2019 in Dubai.

Streeter began by inquiring how her notable panelists ended up working around sustainability and the challenges they had to overcome to reach their respective positions.

“My parents empowered me to do the things I wanted to do. I had the backing of my family when I went to study Mechanical Engineering in Germany. I started noticing how we were destroying the environment and our marine life and I decided this was something I wanted to create awareness about. I started with an NGO, teaching children about the marine environment, and that opened more doors. I went into the Ministry of Environment and Water. Slowly but surely, I went up the ladder and I am now the Minister of State for Food Security,” said Her Excellency Mariam Bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri.

“You don’t know where the road will lead you, but the main thing is being passionate about what you do. Working hard and making sure you don’t forget the values you have and you push yourself through,” she added.

Recollecting her journey, Her Excellency Dr Aisha Bint Butti Bin Bishr, Director General of the Smart Dubai Office, revealed she saw her brother using his computers and thought about how she could make use of technology to serve her country for a sustainable future. “When I was appointed to lead the Smart City agenda of Dubai, I started talking to our partners in the energy and sustainability sectors and I found ICT is the best tool to find solutions to people’s problems. Believing in technology, rather than fearing it, is the way forward.”

Habiba Al Mar’shi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group, thanked the World Green Economy Summit for highlighting the role of UAE national women in green economy and talked about her own struggles as a young mother with a desire to serve her

country, while raising four children.

She began working for the environmental cause because it was something she could relate to. “I grew up in an environment where conservation is part of our religious practices and we are taught that we are the custodians of the planet and we have to do right by it, because we will be held accountable on the day of judgment,” she said. The UAE was a young country when she first began working and there was a lot to be done. “We were opening the doors for tourism and many other industries, so it was only right to think about leading by example and making protection of the environment a priority. We looked at the challenges, turned them into objectives, and we started working,” she reminisced.

Further into the session, Streeter, along with the panelists, discussed the importance of female empowerment in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “I assure you, one of the key solutions for the SDGs is empowering women, because they are the ones who are nurturing homes, they are the ones who have more empathy for the environment, for inclusiveness, for tolerance, and this will be reflected in the SDGs,” stated HE Almheiri. Al Mar’ashi endorsed this opinion by providing examples and mentioning the urgency of training women and enabling them to earn. She believes

the financial stability of women is in turn invested into the education and health of their children. “When you are empowering women, you are literally empowering the whole society and the children are the future – they are the producers and consumers,” she said.

According to Al Mar’ashi, only six per cent women work in technological industries worldwide and only one per cent are seen in leadership roles globally. “Is that the right equation?” she asked. HE Dr Bin Bishr, who agreed there is a serious lack of women in key positions “We need women to take the lead, not necessarily only in the government, but also in the private sector,” she commented.

How can women be promoted and attracted to these important roles?

That is the burning question.

HE Almheiri provided three key solutions: establishing a political will, promoting international partnerships, and making sure women are involved in decisionmaking. She also believes women like her need to play a role in encouraging younger women to enter into male-dominant fields to secure these positions. She talked about how the UAE is increasingly successful in achieving the SDGs because women make up 50% of the UAE parliament and 30% of its cabinet.

Al Mar’ashi pressed upon the importance of providing women with the necessary skills to become active players in creating solutions. “Saying no to women is not a luxury we can afford anymore. It makes a very strong economic sense that you need to have this 50% of the population involved in the whole sustainability process,” she said.

In addition to these important factors, it is also essential to empower women through flexible working practices. Leading by example HE Bin Bishr ensures these practices at the Smart Dubai Office so her colleagues are focussed on their work and also able to fulfil their home commitments. “Most of my colleagues at Smart Dubai are married women with children. Not only do we give them flexible timings, we also give them nursery facility and allow them to bring their kids to work if needed,” she said.

The panellists advised women to get over their fears, voice their opinions and not be afraid to explore. “No question is a stupid question and most probably, if you ask a question, other people in the room will have the same question.

Speak and your voice will be heard,” concluded HE Almheiri.

31

GLOBAL COMMITMENT

TO A GREEN ECONOMY By DR DENA ASSAF UNITED NATIONS RESIDENT COORDINATOR FOR THE UAE

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ustainable development is central to the United Nation’s (UN) quest and duty to support the world’s nations, and we are certain that when the world’s minds come together to solve global challenges, we can succeed.

We saw this in the previous development agenda, the Millennium Development Goals, through which the world community succeeded in halving poverty, securing access to education for millions and improving healthcare.

Now, with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), nations have vowed to build on that experience and those achievements, while shifting the approach from eradicating poverty to a broader, more inclusive scope that promotes economic growth, social development and environmental protection. With less than 12 years left to achieve the SDGs, it is vital that we keep up the pace. The world faces many challenges with magnified dimensions that threaten the future and frustrate many, such as climate change.

Advancements in the field of green economy will go a long way to sustainably accelerating progress for all. The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) leadership has put development, sustainability and future-building at the heart of its strategies, which are enshrined in Vision 2021. Throughout the years, it has become a strategic and substantive partner of the UN. We have jointly worked on key global agendas, and the United Nations Country Team has substantially grown from a few agencies engaged with the UAE during the 1970s to more than 30 different UN agencies actively engaged today. The UN collaborates with the UAE locally, as well as in the region and globally, both in humanitarian and development cooperation based on UAE’s global aspirations.

In 2016, we proudly partnered with the Government of Dubai for the creation of the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), which is operating from Dubai to drive green economy transitions globally, through coalitions, unlocking investments and scaling innovations in energy, infrastructure and water. This multilateral approach resonates clearly with the UN’s mandate. The UN’s cooperation with WGEO now continues through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to establish a Regional Collaboration Centre in Dubai, focused on the MENA region, and through the UN Office for South South Cooperation that supports partnership mobilisation and global outreach efforts.

The UN also has a substantive partnership with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, through technical assistance via our specialised agencies for policy work and knowledge-sharing. This past year, through hosting the Abu Dhabi Climate Meeting, important advocacy efforts were jointly undertaken to garner political support for the Climate Action Summit in September 2019.

In a region rich with oil, gas and other non-renewable sources of energy, the UAE is taking the lead in moving towards a greener, diversified fuel mix, a clear step towards sustainability and reduced vulnerability to supply shocks. The UN has engaged in these efforts through participation in various fora, and we expect increased engagement with the UAE on South South Cooperation, by helping to promote and share the knowledge and expertise generated by the UAE over the years in the domain of green economy and sustainable development.

As the UAE works towards becoming a global hub and successful model of green economy, the UN is well-placed to facilitate dialogue with government, civil society organisations, the private sector and actors at sub-national levels to share knowledge and best practices for decision-making and inclusive policy development.

...the United Nations Country Team has substantially grown from a few agencies engaged with the UAE during the 1970s to more than 30 different UN agencies actively engaged today.

Growing populations mean growing numbers of individuals with needs, ambitions and aspirations. It is our collective duty to ensure that these future generations will have what we have, and inherit a better planet and future. Green economy is a pathway towards this sustainable future, towards prosperity for the next generation, and consequently, towards preventing future conflict and maintaining peace. We are confident the long-term vision and commitment the UAE has placed on this pathway will support the well-being of its citizens and consolidate its global sustainability legacy.

About DR DENA ASSAF Dr. Dena Assaf is the United Nations Resident Coordinator for the United Arab Emirates.

She has been with the UN for over 20 years in various senior management positions and advisory roles in UN headquarters, the Arab Region, and various UN country offices.

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DUBAI AS A SUSTAINABLE FINANCIAL HUB

– THE STORY SO FAR

A

t the first breakout session of the World Green Economic Summit 2019, captains of industry, both in the private and public sectors, converged to discuss progress thus far as regards carbon footprint reduction, how Dubai can become a sustainable business hub, and efforts geared towards achieving the sustainable development goals.

“Bond issues has grown over the last six years. We went from strategy in numbers to talking about environmental, social and governance criteria (ESG). Now people are beginning to get aware and involved. People care and this matters to investors,” said Redwan Ahmed, Head of Investor Relations at DP World.

Moderated by Rehan Ahmed, the Director of Emirates NBD Capital, a panel comprising Diako Makhmalbaf, Sustainable Finance Lead, HSBC MENAT; Franck Nowak, VP MENA Fixed Income and Global Sukuk, Franklin Templeton; Redwan Ahmed, Head of Investor Relations, DP World; and Samir Safar-Aly, Supervising Associate in the Financial Markets team, Simmons & Simmons gathered to ruminate on the nature of sustainable financing and how it can be encouraged to achieve His Royal Highness’s vision of making Dubai the apex of the world’s green economies in the future.

The private and public sectors, as well as the wise leadership of Dubai and the UAE, have increasingly switched their focus towards environmental and social issues. There have been calls for and increases in investments, financial services and projects that are green-related and geared towards integrating the environment, social and governance criteria in line with the sustainable development goals and accelerating Dubai’s transformation as a sustainable business hub.

One notable investment in this regards, as highlighted by Makhmalbaf, is HSBC’s US$ 100 billion investments in sustainable projects, renewable energy and financing, which aims to improve the environment, reduce the carbon footprint and create a conducive space for sustainable growth and development. Following on the same trajectory, Nowak opined that as an investment body, Franklin Templeton’s recent policies have frequently targeted social and environmental sustainability, and the organisation has launched various initiatives to integrate strategies and operations with sustainable energy, thereby acting as a pace-setter, drawing the attention of other industries towards issues concerning sustainability.

The actions, procedures and policies undertaken by both sectors have not gone unnoticed, as issues around sustainable financing have begun to garner interest from the wider public, as well as attracting investors.

Redwan Ahmed highlighted how efforts from the private and public sectors have resulted in a paradigm shift in growth in the last six years and increasing investment. “Currently, we have over US$ 11 billion in bond

and this will get bigger,” he said, suggesting the reason for this growth is the prevalence of energy targets and other energy regulations ratified within the region. This has created an opportunity to “push the idea of sustainable financing so investors can see what to invest in.”

Diako further pointed out that there should be a better regulatory framework, awareness and public engagement. He tasked the private sector to do more in this regard.

“Companies in the region, even without regulations, need to do better, needs to be more sustainable.

They need to look at what their international peers are doing and investing in and follow suit. As bankers, we are here to help with finances, and there is so much we can do other than create the products and market them, we also need our clients to take these steps with us,” he said.

Sustainable financing offers a unique financial service and opportunity that contributes to sustainable development and value creation in the economic, environmental and social long-term.

With an increase in sustainable funds, green bonds, impact investing, microfinancing, active ownership, credits for sustainable projects and development of the entire financial system in a more sustainable way, industries within the region and across the globe have begun to play a role in improving economic efficiency and prosperity, while contributing to protecting the ecosystem and achieving the green economy goals. Though there is room for more inclusive impact, the journey is on the right track.

INTERVIEW WITH

DR MATTHEW KENNEDY

HEAD OF STRATEGY AND BUSINESS, INTERNATIONAL ENERGY RESEARCH CENTRE (IERC) PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND; WHAT EXPERIENCES PREPARED YOU FOR THIS ROLE AND WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT INITIATIVES AND PERSONAL VISION? I helped to establish an energy research centre in Ireland that works closely with industries to develop low-carbon technologies, product and services. We are all about collaborating with industries and aiding the development of energy efficiency and renewable energy products and services. I have worked for 20 years with government organisations in Ireland, the European Union, the United Nations and the International Energy Agency, focusing on promoting the transition to low carbon and technology transfer.

HOW CAN WE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR CURRENT KNOWLEDGESHARING ECONOMY TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY? HOW CAN ORGANISATIONS FACILITATE AND INSTITUTIONALISE GREEN KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER, ESPECIALLY IN INDUSTRIES WITH HIGH TURNOVER? This is a challenge. Firstly, you need to be an exemplar; you need to show best practice examples. This is to allow industries to replicate these examples for maximum impact as they transition to low carbon. That can often be about new business models in terms of sustainability, the promotion of natural resources, or moving away from fossil fuels WHAT ARE THE INTERNATIONAL MEASURES, CRITERION, BENCHMARKS, OR STANDARDS YOU WOULD RECOMMEND AN ORGANISATION TO MEET TO REALISE THE BEST SUSTAINABILITY POLICIES AND PRACTICES? Firstly, the values come from the top. The leadership comes from the top. You need organisations to have clear low-carbon, green, economic values that can impact the culture, but you also need to demonstrate those values in the activities it delivers in terms of moving to low carbon. Companies also have to look at their values through supply chains, considering how they develop their products, technology and services in the most resource efficient and sustainable manner.

DO YOU FEEL CORPORATIONS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR ARE EQUALLY ACCOUNTABLE AS ENTITIES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN MAINTAINING GREEN PRACTICES AND ADVOCATING FOR A GREEN ECONOMY? There are different roles for the public and private sectors, and there is room for partnership. The public sector is really about policies and providing the right enabling environment, guidance and information for these practices to happen. Ultimately, impact happens with the industries. They are the ones that transform marketplaces in terms of the development of low-carbon technologies, knowledge, product and services. That is the challenge they face, to make sure they can achieve the right level of revenue and growth while being sustainable.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES IN ATTAINING OPTIMAL LEVELS OF SUSTAINABILITY? WHAT TOOLS DO YOU USE TO STAY INFORMED ABOUT THE LATEST GREEN TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGIES? Communication technology and the digitalisation of energy systems will play a key role in enabling the clean transition. But ultimately, the clients of the business, the stakeholders, the consumers, these are the ones who want reductions in terms of emissions, who want more energy efficiency in their buildings and more renewable technology to fuel their services, and there is a

key role for these actors in terms of meeting sustainable development goals. The information can come from an academic source or government policy-making source, but ultimately, it’s about transferring best practices from different jurisdictions.

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YOUTH CONTRIBUTION TO LOCALISING THE

SDGS AND HARNESSING TECHNOLOGIES TO ACHIEVE THEM A imed at targeting and integrating youths as active participants, as well as pioneers of sustainability and green economy, the youth session kicked off with a succinct speech from His Excellency Saeed Mohammad Ahmad Al Tayer, CEO and Managing Director of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). He made a clarion call to youths in the United Arab Emirates and around the world to become active actors in the global effort for achieving green economy. He made this remark in his opening speech for youth engagement at the sixth edition of the World Green Economy Summit on October 20th at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC).

“The youths are the future and focus of the United Arab Emirates, and they are the focus of recent developmental initiatives. Therefore, the contributions of youths in the green economy is one of the most important topics on the agenda for the sixth edition of the World Green Economy Summit. As such, this year’s theme, “Youth contribution to localising the SDGs and harnessing technologies to achieve them”, depicts the crucial roles youths can play in making the objectives of both the green economy and the SDGs a reality. They have the required skills, creativity and knowledge to create a better future for

both the present and future generations,” said Al Tayer.

As a sign of solidarity, HE said, “The youths are the future and hope of our country. It is important we support them, encourage their views and opinions, and most importantly, empower them, giving them the opportunity to formulate their ambitions and become an integral part of the trajectory towards economic development, social growth and environmental sustainability.”

“As part of our efforts to achieve the country’s national and strategic goals, including UAE vision 2021, UAE Centennial 2071, Dubai Clean Energy

change. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has further launched projects that proved significant, including investment in the Solar Decathlon Middle East, sponsoring the Carbon Ambassador’s programme, organising youth seminars, and launching the Youth Council, which provides a platform for empowerment of young people, as well as involving them in decision-making processes. We have always been active pioneers of youth dialogue as regards environmental sustainability,” said Al Tayer.

Vision 2050 and other national efforts, we enlisted and encouraged the active participation of young people because we believe they have the skills to respond to the rapid changes posed by climate

The youth dialogue facilitated discussions on a variety of topics, ranging from how youths can be further engaged in the achievement of the SDGs by 2030, the decline in climate actions, and how government can benefit from the immense opportunity and leverage the colossal resources and creativity of youths to lead a global transformation towards sustainability. The panel was spearheaded by speakers such as HE Dr Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Cabinet Member and Minister of Climate Change and Environment; HE Jorge Chediek, Director, The United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation; Aysha Mohammad AlRemeithi, DEWA Youth Council President; and Tatiana Antonelli Abella, Founder and

Managing Director, Goumbook.

The youth dialogue focussed on issues of sustainability, climate change, technologies, and how youths can be better engaged and involved to become drivers of the green economy.

“At the Ministry of Climate Change in 2012, we drafted a concept note to ensure continuity with the global economy while incorporating youths. From 2012 until now, most of the delegates sent on delegations are youths. We further came up with some pointers for action to incorporate youths, including engagement, awareness and participation. We ensure youth involvement, and we recruit them right from university and train them to become future actors. 65% of our workers are youths,” said Al Zeyoudi.

At the end of the discussion, the participating youths, along with the speakers and facilitators, acknowledged that youths have to take a more pragmatic stance and show more concern and empathy towards the environment. Getting youths more engaged could involve volunteer actions, excursions to impoverished regions, and workshops. The panellists further pledged to be active pioneers and bear the responsibility of driving climate change effectively and achieving sustainability, both within the region and the world.

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SUSTAINABILITY IN THE

PRIVATE SECTOR

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raditionally, businesses have focussed on the financial outcome of their operations. Therefore, in boardrooms all around the world, the issues of sustainability have either been ignored or addressed through corporate social responsibility (CSR). This is changing as companies realise that sustainability efforts lead to commercial opportunities and reinvent their business models. As of April 2019, more than 9,500 companies had joined UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, voluntarily pledging to adopt sustainable practices and report on their implementation.

A discussion on sustainability in the private sector at the World Green Economy Summit (WGES) in Dubai, explored how organisations around the world are making a shift towards sustainable practices. “I won’t sell the future for short-term profit,” said Manuel Kuhen, Senior Vice President at Siemens, UAE, quoting Werner Von Siemens as he explained the importance of sustainability within his organisation. He believes businesses are beyond the question of how to preserve the company’s profits. The discussion now is focused on how to preserve the planet and the business environment they work in. The stakeholder landscape has changed tremendously. “It is not only our shareholder anymore that determines what we are doing, it’s other stakeholders, it’s the employees, families of employees, society as an entity that by the use of social media gets a voice beyond what individuals can tell us, and we have to be able to answer to their questions.”

“The dynamics of business have changed. There is a new model of business, sustainable business, and I work with shareholders and stakeholders across our companies to develop our sustainability policy and implement the new sustainable business model,” explained Ibrahim N Al-Zu’bi, Chief Sustainability Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Holding, as he introduced himself.

Touching upon the subject of Islamic finance and banking, moderator of the panel, Roy Sheppard, former BBC news anchor, interviewer and author asked, “My understanding of Islamic finance is that it is an ethical, long-term business model, so you’re already in the sustainability space. Is that accurate?” Maha Maisari, Senior Vice President and Head of Corporate Governance and Sustainability, Noor

It’s a no-brainer that sustainability is the way forward,” said Maisari.

“They are concerned if this is being driven from the top, what is the tone at the top? How are the shareholders involved in the drive for sustainability? Because when there is commitment from the top, it gives a sense of comfort. They know the organisation is serious about sustainability,” she added.

More importantly, the panel felt it’s their duty to translate their sustainability practices for their customers. Offering Siemens as an example, Kuhen said, “Customers like us because we are sustainable.

I believe as a technological company, our task is to translate what technology does and the effects of sustainability into economic sense and it works. We just have to do it.” Like customers, investors are also becoming increasingly concerned about where they invest their money.

“They ask questions like, how are you preparing for the effects of climate change? Are you at risk of being flooded? What is your strategy? They are anticipating the massive shift and they say, if I don’t understand how you are dealing with the massive shift, I won’t put my money in you,” revealed Kuhen. Al-Zu’bi added to the discussion by explaining how the intelligence of customers and investors who now make use of various rating and benchmarking tools to evaluate sustainability efforts cannot be underestimated.

Bank, agreed with Sheppard’s statement. “There is a misconception among the masses that unless you formally announce you are embarking on the journey of sustainability, you’re not actually doing anything, but because we are applying the principles of Sharia and ethical banking, we started this way from inception.”

So why is Islamic banking not the first choice of businesses? Maisari believes it is a lack of understanding and awareness, because in reality, Islamic banking is all about applying principles of responsible banking to every product and service being provided and that contributes to the sustainability efforts of businesses.

Maisari further stated that it is wrong to think banks don’t play a role in sustainability, because banks are at the beginning of that economic cycle. “Yes, we have a small direct

carbon footprint, but the indirect impact we have is phenomenal. I think that is the opportunity we should grab as banks. Because we are Sharia compliant, that in itself has helped us to embark on the journey of sustainability.”

Continuing the session, Sheppard asked whether private-sector customers really care about how sustainable any business is. “Since most businesses are about the customer experience and the customers are having a good time, do they really care about how sustainable you are?” he asked. The panellists agreed that times have changed and this is what their customers now desire. “In the banking sector, our customers absolutely want that. They are lending their money; they want to lend it to someone who is going to apply responsible banking practices.

The panel also insisted governments strengthen regulations and implement carbon taxes to ensure a green economy.

But here lies the question of whether businesses will accept and follow these regulations. “In the first instance, you would say no. In the short term, it will hit us, it will hit everybody. But mid-term and long-term, it will actually allow you to do things you are not able to do today. It will be a competitive advantage and it will force companies to be agile and innovate,” said Kuhen. Al- Zu’bi also advocated tax policies and regulations. “There must be more green regulations. What we need from governments or different stakeholders is to take this partnership to the next level, and we need to create a platform for sustainability innovations, which we lack,” he said.

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CHALLENGES AND

SOLUTIONS FOR GREEN ECONOMY

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reen economy revolves around deploying renewable energy effectively and efficiently. The fundamental issues include renewable electricity, alternative energy sources, and their costs and efficiencies. As agreed by the experts, it will be a daunting task to eliminate fossil fuel. However, renewable sources are coming into play as we build the infrastructure, and as we scale, the costs are coming down. There will come a time when renewable energy sources will occupy a more competitive position compared with fossil fuels, but there must be investment. These conundrums formed the basis of discussion at the World Green Economy Summit.

Sustainability experts converged in a panel discussion to dissect the challenges and solutions needed for the green economy to thrive. The panel brought to the fore landmark achievements in terms of renewable energy deployment within the region, alternative energy sources and technology, as well as discussing opportunities inherent within the industry. This was moderated by Dr Matt Kennedy, Head of Strategy and Business, International Energy Research Centre and in attendance were Alejandro Rois G, Director, Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium; Ramiz Hamdan Alaileh, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Director, Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi; and Tim Armsby, Partner, Pinsent Masons.

Renewable energy technologies are poised to become an important component of the electricity supply mix, providing the UAE with the necessary infrastructure to make the vision of achieving and maintaining a high rate of renewable electricity deployment a reality. Recently, the prices of renewable energy have been more at parity with conventional energy sources. This is a result of the improved technologies needed to refine these products. Rois said, “In terms of being able to produce and having access to these types of fuels, the next decade will witness a significant increment, because the aviation sector is the last sector that will depend on liquid hydrocarbon fuel.”

Alaileh commented on the role the government is playing in creating an enabling environment for effective transmission through groundbreaking innovations and policies. “We have learnt that we can do it. We are investing heavily in renewable energy and in the energy transition that will help us diversify. We recently announced the 2 gigawatts plan, which is going to be a mega solar project. We also increased our renewable energy capacity with commercial operations to a 1177 MW solar PV plant, an increase from just 110 MW last year to more than 1280 MW at the moment. By 2020, Abu Dhabi is aiming to achieve seven per cent of its energy from renewable sources.”

Talking on other alternative renewable sources to aid the transition, Alaileh stated, “We launched the first energy battery solar system with a capacity of 108 MW and 648 megawatt-hours over six hours, which was inaugurated in January this year. This is probably the largest virtual battery plant in the world. This system will help enable us to integrate solar more into our energy sector, and this will allow us to handle issues related to intermittency and availability.”

Commenting on the way forward for a more inclusive and effective deployment, Armsby said, “There are roles for all stakeholders to get involved. Solar companies, SMEs and local companies need to do more in terms of the delivery of renewables.

There should also be regulations to enhance this, because there are companies that would like to rely on renewable energy but don’t have the site, and at the moment there is not an easy way to sell or source these sites, due to lack of regulations to facilitate the transport of electricity. We also need storage solutions, and I think there is a real opportunity here in the Middle East, because we are at the start of this, to have policies to encourage storage solutions in these projects. We have the potential to encourage more start-up type businesses and create technologies and services that can then be exported to other markets.”

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INTERVIEW WITH

DR MOHAMED GAMAL KAFAFY

PRESIDENT, WORLD GREEN ECONOMY COUNCIL (WGECO)

PLEASE BRIEFLY TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND, WHAT EXPERIENCES PREPARED YOU FOR THIS ROLE AND WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT INITIATIVES AND PERSONAL VISION. My postgraduate studies and professional experience spans 25 years. I believe that the blend of my academic achievements and different industry experiences in managerial and consulting roles nationally and internationally as well as serving as Chief Consultant for the United Nations Development in partnership with the Ministry of Electricity & Energy-Egypt, are what enhanced me for this key role as the President of World Green Economy Council. My aims and vision for this important position have a lot to do for promoting green economy concepts, applications and technologies with incentives and legislations (carrot & stick approach). I make use of all important platforms and opportunities to recommend governments to create and implement Green Accounting and Resources Efficiency Laws. Secondly, I also heavily recommend carbon tax law. This will substantially enhance our sustainability efforts and has already been applied in 20 countries globally. In addition, I am keen on the idea of creating an Arab Green Investment Bank, to be the first organisation dedicated to green investment database, professionals and funds in the Arab world.

HOW MAY WE FOSTER COLLABORATIONS BETWEEN INDUSTRY AND ACADEMIA IN ADVANCING SUSTAINABILITY RESEARCH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES? Academic research is based on three Ps: paper, prototype, and product.

Paper is essentially publishing ideas and concepts. A prototype is making a model that is not yet applicable and product is the output of research.

The product is variable and can be used at a commercial level. In the next decades, we have to focus on research the production of green products.

Secondly, we need to embed environmental sustainability and green economy concepts into educational curriculums of all disciplines and stages.Partnerships must also be created between industries and educational institutions for collaborative research, education, and awareness at all levels.

WHICH COUNTRIES DO YOU BELIEVE TO EXCEL IN GREEN FINANCE? WHAT MECHANISMS ARE BEING IMPLEMENTED TO FOSTER THIS SUCCESS? Germany is the top country investing in green industries. They are now producing 60% of their total electricity by renewable energy. Their greatest mechanism is their belief in a green economy.

WITH THE ADVENT OF THE GLOBAL SMART CITY PHENOMENON, DO YOU BELIEVE A SMART CITY LEADS TO A SUSTAINABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY CITY? Cities, in general, are consuming about 60% to 70% of total global energy. The smart city concept promises to minimise energy consumption and use new sources of technology and renewable energy. This will definitely lead to eco-friendly cities. A smart city can use 50% less energy compared with a traditional city plan. Therefore, I am a huge advocate of the smart city concept.

WHAT IMPLICATIONS DOES THE GREEN TRANSITION HAVE ON THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRIES? WHAT CHANGES MAY ORGANISATIONS IN THAT SECTOR ADOPT TO MAINTAIN VALUE IN THE FUTURE? Contrary to popular belief that green economy will kill the oil and gas industry, I do not believe they are confronting any such risk. We can make a shift towards green economy by maximising the efficiency of oil and gas. Solutions include using higher efficiency equipment and transforming oil and gas to petrochemicals, instead of burning them. It is important to understand that energy efficiency improvement is cost-effective. It is less than a quarter of the cost paid to create new energy from resources.

SUSTAINABLE

AGRICULTURE

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he way we grow food should be water conservative, efficient and without a damning effect on the ecosystem, and at the same time healthy and nutritious. This was the view unanimously shared by experts at the World Green Economic Summit. However, sustainable agricultural practices, water-saving, reduction of food wastage and organic growth cannot happen overnight. It takes intensive and continuous research, investment, education and awareness to come into fruition. We are not far behind, and we believe we can do it.

Recent efforts have been directed towards designing systems around sustainable agriculture, including food, soil and the wider water sector.

Often, sustainable agriculture is a direct byproduct of cleaner air, cleaner water, and a cleaner ecosystem. These topics were essentially what experts convened to discuss at the summit. Moderated by Dr Matt Kennedy, Head of Strategy and Business, International Energy Research Centre, panellists included Abdulaziz Almulla, Co-founder and CEO, Madar Farms; Atle Idland, General Manager, Desert Control Middle East; and Lina F Yousef, Co-founder, De L’A rta LLC. Tackling 20th-century agricultural practices, which focused solely on mass production with little regards for quality and environmental impact, requires the adoption of innovative technologies that will result in resilient food production that is highly nutritious, healthy and environmentally efficient. Almulla shed more light on these procedures and modern techniques as adopted by Madar Farms, an alteration he called “indoor farming.” “Our solutions are indoor farming, which can be done anywhere because it is soil-less. Instead of sunlight, we use LED lights, get the perfect level of oxygen, nutrients, water, etc. We control everything. We don’t make use of preservatives, chemicals, insecticides or pesticides because we are indoors, and this makes our products very healthy. The way we grow is more water conservative – we conserve about 95% of water versus conventional agriculture,” he said.

Going further on the methods and procedures adopted for effective and efficient water preservation, Idland pointed at the current technology embraced within the region, including an invention that guarantees 50% water retention for open-field agriculture, ensures nutrient maintenance and improves soil fertility. “When we treat an area with our solutions, we mix it with smart agricultural systems like sensors in the ground. So we are not overwatering based on weather forecast any more, we are watering based on sensor data at the root level of the crop. The crop gets the water that it needs when it needs it,” he explained.

On the issue of waste, the panellists unanimously agreed waste should be seen as an opportunity for impact, an avenue for investors and SMEs to come into the industry. Most importantly, waste could be repurposed

and diverted into other meaningful ventures, an opinion shared by Yousef, who said, “We have been working at repurposing some of the organic waste that is produced locally into high quality compost that we use directly at our farm. For instance, in Kenya, a company named Azuri Health, in collaboration with a German enterprise, intercepted 50% of waste mango produce from farmers. They dehydrated them and resold them as dried food products. This is just a small example of how waste can be repurposed. Food waste is a challenge, but it is also an opportunity for comers into the market.”

The journey to sustainable agriculture, especially within the region, is at an incubation stage, but stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors, are taking giant strides towards making this vision a reality. Research plays an important role in this journey and everyone, including the government, academia, and the private sector, plays a role in this regard. Modern and innovative means and technologies need to be developed and deployed to enhance optimum use of both water and land resources. Most importantly, there should be immense investment in education to better equip youths and keep them abreast on issues pertaining to sustainability, as well as trending agricultural practices and technologies. As noted by Almulla, “Without education, there is no awareness, without awareness, there is no adoption and without adoption, there is no financial case.”

43

GREEN

FINANCE AND INVESTMENTS

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he United Nations, financial regulators and the financial sector have been working together to align financial systems to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Initiatives include taskforce climate change discussions, the new EU tax and regulatory developments in Europe, global finance standards, and much more. These are helping increase financial perks to support sustainable development. In just three years, global green financing has gone up by 34% and is now at US$ 31 trillion.

Shyrose Osman, Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications, Dubai Financial Market, moderated a panel of banking and investment experts at the World Green Economy Summit 2019 in Dubai, who discussed green financing to promote economic and environmental stability globally and particularly, in emerging markets.

Speaking about green financing from an investor’s point of view, Dr Erich Becker, Managing Partner, Exergy Capital Management LLP, United Kingdom said, “As investors, we are focused on global efforts to lower carbon emission footprints of our daily lives and decarbonise the way energy is being generated and consumed by all of us on a daily basis. The social impact is very

important to us.” He believes any investment has to be successful in the long run and therefore, investors are increasingly concerned about the projects they invest in. However, he maintains it is important to realise green finance is not only about banking and loans available to these projects, but also equity.

Presenting green finance from a banking perspective, Hitesh Asarpota, Managing Director and Head of Debt Capital Markets, Emirates NBD, United Arab Emirates, stated, “For us, broadly speaking, the concept of sustainable financing was born out of a desire to influence the growth of capital and the flow of capital to projects that are

For us, broadly speaking, the concept of sustainable financing was born out of a desire to influence the growth of capital and the flow of capital to projects that are green, such as efficient buildings or renewable energy. Today, sustainable finance is no longer a buzzword, it is mainstream.

HITESH ASARPOTA, MANAGING DIRECTOR AND HEAD OF DEBT CAPITAL MARKETS, EMIRATES NBD

investors for sustainable funding?

green, such as efficient buildings or renewable energy. Today, sustainable finance is no longer a buzzword, it is mainstream.”

WHAT ARE THE KEY CONSIDERATIONS AND CHALLENGES WHEN SETTING UP A GREEN FUND? “Structurally, setting up a green fund in our space is triggered by looking at how to generate effective returns.

Being an investor, our returns are driven by capital gain. Businesses must show investors what impact every dollar is making from an environmental perspective. As for challenges, one of the biggest challenges for us is awareness.

While there is a lot of talk about sustainability and principles of responsible investment, we still spend a lot of time educating investors that we can actually deliver financial returns and rate very high on ESG (Environmental Social and Corporate Governance),” commented Dr Becker.

It may not always be easy to gain the interest of the investment community to invest in sustainable

projects. Banks often have to come up with innovative new strategies to draw investors in. Eklavya Sareen, Managing Director and Head of Advisory, MENAT, HSBC Middle East, United Arab Emirates, explained, “For HSBC, sustainable finance is a core part of our strategy.

In 2017, HSBC made a commitment to raise US$ 100 billion for sustainable finance by 2025. By sustainable finance, we mean not just reducing carbon emissions, but a broader agenda around reducing carbon emissions and a broader objective that aligns with the Paris Agreement, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals. I am happy to say, almost two years on, we have helped raise almost US$ 37 billion under this strategic initiative.” Appreciating the efforts of HSBC, Asarpota said, “Having a measurable target for a certain period of time encourages sustainable financing. More institutions should take that up to create a positive pace.”

In discussing building opportunities for companies and investors, the moderator asked panellists how to match demand for companies and

“Green projects need to make sense to bankers, so they must be profitable.

Bankers are not going to finance projects that do not have proven returns or feasibility studies,” said Hasan Al Jabri, CEO, SEDCO Holding Group Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Al Jabri went on to say, “Today, there are multiple opportunities. When you are investing in or developing real estate for example, the future calls for sustainable building materials and efficient homes in terms of leakages, water preservation and, recycling, etc. You will see these projects are so much more marketable. Investors understand them more and will be more willing to support them.

Therefore, while responsible green investors are important, we have to match this with opportunities as well.”

The panel also discussed similarities between Principles of Responsible Investment (PRI) and Sharia. Both systems emphasise aligning finance with social good and seek to increase the contribution of the finance sector to the real economy.

Both PRI and Sharia also aim to pursue a more resilient financial system devoid of unsustainable system risk. “The United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment, created by Kofi Annan, are the same as the Sharia principles and they drive towards economic sustainability. We started matching the practices and they worked in the same way except for a couple of differences. The overlap is almost 99%,” said Al Jabri.

45

INTERVIEW WITH

ANDREAS SPIESS CO-FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN, SOLARKIOSK SOLUTIONS

where there is no electricity, you not only improve living conditions but you also provide energy for productive use. As a result, people can work, be more efficient and harvest income to better their living conditions, and have no more reason to migrate. This was, in my opinion, the best way to heal the root cause of the migration problem.

WHAT ARE THE KEY TECHNOLOGIES THAT CAN HELP? All renewable energy, be it hydro, wind or solar, has its advantages and disadvantages. In regards to solar, the biggest advantage is that you can make it small. For example, you can put a 0.5-Watt bulb here that will harvest the sun’s rays and at night, you will have light. At the same time, you can make a several Megawatt Greenfield project just outside Dubai. With solar technology you can make it as big or as small as you want; no other renewable technology can do that. Wind only makes sense at a larger scale, hydro only makes sense on at least a medium scale, but solar, can be scaled down.

Personally, I love small. Small is beautiful and small is applicable in societies where there is not yet enough economic power to afford big. In the communities and societies we work with, it has to start with small.

PLEASE BRIEFLY TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND I have three lives and they are all interrelated. My first life is as a musician; I am a trained jazz musician and that is how I learned to play in a team, as I played in a band. My second life is as a lawyer, and this profession helped me understand, respect, work with and, if necessary, change the law. Lastly, I am an entrepreneur and serial investor. I have started several companies throughout Africa because I was not happy with what governments were able to achieve in regards to sustainable development.

WHAT EXPERIENCES PREPARED YOU FOR THE ROLE YOU ARE IN NOW? In the early 2000s, the first waves of refugees from Africa hit European shores. Many died while trying to find shelter and a better life. As a European who fundamentally believes in the principles of human rights, I felt deeply embarrassed about this, so I sought to understand the situation. I realised two things.

Firstly, these people did not want to migrate, they had no choice.

Had they been provided with adequate living conditions back home, they would have stayed there. Secondly, I understood renewable energy would be industrialised and as a result, the price would go down. Combining the two, the realisation is simple: once you kick-start energy in a rural, off-grid community

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THESE CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES IN ENSURING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME? The big advantage of our solar technology is that we combine it with appliances through which you can make use of the energy you harvest. For example, all of our technology designs come with solar-powered fridges, phone chargers and TVs. Not only that, there are solar-powered appliances for farmers, barber shops, for butchers and even for restaurants. We transform the energy into whatever is needed most in the respective community, which ensures sustainable economic growth.

WHAT COUNTRIES HAVE YOU WORKED IN SO FAR, WHERE YOU HAVE PROVIDED THIS ENERGY? We are now in 16 countries, mostly in Africa, such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana and Nigeria. It is a long list of countries, but it is always the same principle – any rural population with no access to electricity and a dire need for enhancement to increase its economic productivity. Wherever you have a base case scenario like this, our technology makes perfect sense.

THE IMPACT OF

GREEN TECHNOLOGY ON THE GREEN ECONOMY

I

n a panel discussion moderated by Susannah Streeter, anchor for the World Business Report on the BBC World Service and BBC World TV, five experts shared their thoughts on bridging technology and innovation to drive authentic impact in the green economy.

Andreas Spiess, Co-Founder and Chairman of Solarkiosk, a trading platform, system integrator, service provider and business incubator that combines quality solar products with turnkey solutions and provides services to create sustainable businesses in off-grid frontier markets worldwide, in 15 countries, reaching five million people, spoke about the importance of creating win-win situations through technological innovations. “Only productive use of energy enables people to increase their income and their economic situation, and only an increase in economic situation enables change and transformation into a new society. Our innovation is that we connect energy with connectivity and with productive use, by integrating an award-winning technology. An innovation is successful if it is supported by those whom you are addressing, and it is important for these stakeholders to see you as a private organisation, operating a private business for an inclusive outcome. The second thing supporting innovation is capital. There is a significant lack of capital in the distribution in frontier markets – 3.5 billion people, who are emerging in the middle class need to consume energy in a sustainable way to avoid the same mistakes made.”

Francisco Benedito, Co-Founder of Climate Blockchain, one of the Top 100 Worldwide Fintech Influencers for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), spoke about how climate change can be democratised through financial innovation. “We started ClimateCoin and ClimateTrade three years ago to democratise climate change and address the lack of finance Andreas mentioned. Investors always look for return on investment in a short period of time. We have to lengthen those returns, because we are talking about the survival of the planet. We have 11 years left, according to the latest IPCC report, so we have to encourage everyone to help disrupt the process to change the world. We want to be a marketplace, not only for corporations, but also for citizens and governments, where people can pool money in projects that are going to save the world. We use blockchain to bring transparency to the process.”

Kris Barber, Founder of DGrade, a company supporting a circular economy by recycling plastic water bottles into high quality clothing and accessories, emphasised how technology can make it easier for

consumers to recycle. “The key for us is to ensure we get sufficient plastic to maintain the capacity of the systems and the production we have. We’re facing a lot of issues with getting access to clean material. One of the technologies we are looking at now is the development of a barcode system or a QR code system that could be put on plastic bottles so when the individual consumer buys the bottle, they can go to an app that will tell them through geofencing where the nearest recycling bin is.

They can redeem points and be rewarded for recycling their plastic.

A problem is that a lot of people want to recycle, but nobody believes anything can be done with it. We have a tangible solution for plastic and we can show people that if you do take the time to recycle plastic, there can be great products made from it.”

Richard Dib, Head of Data Science Activation for Smart Dubai, explained the role AI can play in managing demand for energy and food and reducing pollution.

“Technology and innovation will shape the sustainability agenda, and they are being fuelled by data. Data is helping the government build better environmental regulations and helping businesses identify or optimise the use of resources and understand the environmental impact of their operations. Data is playing the role of an enabler, helping us understand demand for energy, food etc. while the world population is growing and the climate is changing. There are many cases of AI. On a city scale, AI and IoT are helping cities monitor air pollution in real time. Furthermore, we are pushing our use cases a step further by connecting traffic lights within the city to an AI component that will help reduce pollution levels by optimising the traffic flow and minimising driving time.”

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WGEO

GOING GLOBAL

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arlier this year, the World Green Economy Organization, in close cooperation with the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation and a number of other key stakeholders, organised a series of five regional ministerial conferences for the Asia-Pacific, Africa, Americas, MENA, and Europe/CIS regions. Every conference had the same goal: to raise regional awareness by showcasing the impact of successful green-economy solutions, crafted and tested by countries of each region, along with addressing sustainable development challenges.

A plenary session took place at WGES 2019, which aimed to highlight the key conclusions and calls for action from the first round of regional ministerial conferences. The panel was moderated by Edem Bakhshish, Global Director of the World Green Economy Organization UAE, and consisted of the following speakers: HE Jonathan Young, Global Director of the World Green Economy Organization New Zealand; HE Fatma Zouhra Zerouati, Minister of Environment and Renewable Energy of Algeria; Dr The Hon Nicolette Odella Henry, Minister of Education of Guyana; and Karol Galek, Chair of the Commission on Technological Development and Innovation of the Slovak Republic.

The panel kicked off with each speaker giving their insight on issues discussed at these forums, along with the possible solutions and outcomes. HE Fatma Zouhra Zerouati began by saying, “When we talk about moving into the green

economy, we cannot forget there is already another economy in place.

Moving away from these economies that have been operating for hundreds of years is a monumental task.”

Dr Nicolette Henry spoke about the importance of legal and regulatory frameworks. “In the regional context of green economies, country-specific regulatory frameworks need to be implemented. They must be based on local context and national policy and take into consideration the political landscape and leadership of government,” she said. “I’m from Guyana, and would like to highlight my country’s experience. Addressing the issues of green economies and regulatory frameworks requires modernising and updating technologies, operational skills and even employment patterns. This

needs to be accompanied by the reorientation of curriculum, teaching and learning. The right skills, knowledge and attitudes will help greatly in achieving a sustainable future,” she said.

Jonathan Young then gave his insights on the discussions and discourse that took place during the Asia-Pacific regional ministerial conferences on green economy.

“New Zealand has a small population of just over five million people. We have a close relationship with our Pacific neighbour nations, which are in great danger due to rising sea levels. Their populations are so low they cannot be considered a cause of climate change, however, these nations are the ones who would be most catastrophically affected as a result of climate change,” he said.

According to Young, the Asia-Pacific ministerial conferences, along with a number of other meetings, offered these nations a platform to highlight their issues and need for outside help to preserve their lands and populations. “Shortly after the

Thinking globally but acting locally is now more important than ever before.

While different stakeholders may have different needs, there is an overall need for hyperactivity and efficiency, resilience and innovation on all fronts.

KAROL GALEK, CHAIR, COMMISSION ON TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION, NATIONAL COUNCIL, SLOVAK REPUBLIC

Asia-Pacific conference in Bangkok was the 50th Pacific Forum, where 18 nations came together to work towards the preservation of these Asia-Pacific nations. Out of this forum came the Kainaki II Declaration, which declared a climate change crisis.” The response to this declaration shows these conferences have the ability to power change. Australia, India and New Zealand have all pledged finance to support these economies, which would not have happened had the conferences not taken place.

Finally, Karol Galek spoke of an issue that was highlighted across all five ministerial conferences, which was the need to pour more finance into green projects. “What is the role of various market players in achieving the required scope of green investments in this region?” asked Edem Bakhshish. “I was surprised to be invited to this conference, almost 6,000 kilometres away from my home,” Galek said. “My expertise lies in focusing on local strategies in Europe and Slovakia, where I’m from. However, after listening to the speakers here, it felt like déjà vu. The issues are the same, no matter where they take place, be it in the Middle East or Europe”.

“Thinking globally but acting locally is now more important than ever before. While different stakeholders may have different needs, there is an overall need for hyperactivity and efficiency, resilience and innovation on all fronts. Finances need to be poured into the right projects, to drive change. Market players need to know exactly where to put their green finances. Investing in the green economy offers the best solution to fighting poverty, as well as sustaining economic growth, which is of particular concern in the Global South,” he continued.

“Enhancing social inclusion, improving human welfare, creating opportunities for employment and decent work for all while maintaining a healthy, functioning planet. These are the main areas that need to be worked on to build a truly green economy,” he concluded.

Overall, the panel provided insight on the need to consider current economies, reform education, help smaller nations and drive green investments to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

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GEARING UP FOR THE

FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE By ENG WALEED ALI BIN SALMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN, DUBAI CARBON AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVEOPMENT AND EXCELLENCE, DEWA

WITH INITIATIVES IN PLACE AND AWARENESS AT AN ALL TIME HIGH, THE UAE IS TAKING ALL THE RIGHT STEPS TO ENSURE A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR ITS PEOPLE.

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he sixth edition of the World Green Economy Summit (WGES) in 2019 saw brilliant minds come together to discuss, debate and confer on the future of our planet. WGES is a platform that breeds ideas, drives change and encourages debate. This year’s summit is testament to the great efforts and enterprises that have been put in place as we gear towards fulfilling the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030. As a nation, we are doing everything possible to accelerate the move towards making the UAE a green, sustainable economy.

The UAE has launched a number of vital initiatives that aim to fast track progress towards meeting the aims of the SDGs. These include, but are not limited to, solar power plants, digitalisation and encouraging the use of electric vehicles. Not only that, the building of sustainable, low-carbon urban communities across the UAE is proof that the country can continue to achieve progress and lower its carbon footprint. With these initiatives in place, we are doing all we can to bring to life the vision of our wise leadership, which began

with none other than the father of our nation, HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It is our aim to fulfill his goal of becoming a global capital of green economy.

Year after year, Dubai has launched initiatives that support the shift towards a green economy, such as the Dubai Green Fund, which was one of the UAE’s key achievements. This year, the summit witnessed the introduction of the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, which was highlighted during the sixth Dubai Declaration. The fund aims to align the local finance sector’s

key initiatives concerning the environment in both local and regional markets.

WGES 2019 has also shed much needed light on the importance of international cooperation to face global challenges and promote worldwide sustainable development.

Proof of success in this direction is the establishment of the Regional Cooperation Centre (RCC) for the Middle East and North Africa, as well as hosting of the Regional Ministerial Conferences by the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) on green economy. Both of these initiatives aim to increase cooperation between countries dedicated to a more sustainable future.

The need to adopt green innovative solutions was highlighted throughout various panels during WGES 2019, and these discussions have allowed us to look deeper into ways that could spur innovation for sustainable development and economic growth. The UAE is currently at the forefront of countries adopting innovative solutions in the realm of renewable energy. There are two projects in particular of great importance, as highlighted by Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), and Chairman of WGES. The first is the launch of the first pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in the Middle East and North Africa region. Located in Hatta, it is a remarkable innovation, powering green economy. One of the

features of this project is that water stored in an upper reservoir at the Hatta Dam will be operated through pumped storage, which is a new form of technology that utilises solarpowered pumps.

Secondly, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is the world’s largest single-site investment project in Concentrated Solar Power (CSP), is the epitome of renewable energy. The solar park has been built on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, and will include the world’s tallest solar tower, standing at 260 metres. It has recently achieved the world’s lowest Levelised Cost of Electricity at 2.4 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the 250MW photovoltaic solar panel technology and 7.3 cents per kWh for the 700MW CSP technology, making it another example of innovation at its finest.

WGES 2019 has reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to support innovative solutions, including, but not limited to increased cooperation between the private and government sectors on all green fronts. Looking forward, WGES 2020 will have an even greater impact on sustainable growth, as it will coincide with Expo 2020. WGES 2020 aims to support active capabilities in all fields and industries contributing to building a green, sustainable economy.

We believe it is the youth of today who will make the greatest impact on climate change. It is imperative that we continue to give them our encouragement and support in their fight for a better world. The time is now, for all nations of the world to

About ENG WALEED ALI BIN SALMAN Eng Waleed Ali Bin salman has over 25 years of experience in the energy sector. Currently, he is the Executive Vice President of Business Development and Excellence at Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Nuclear Energy Committee, Director of the Emirates National Grid Project, Vice Chairman of Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence, Vice Chairman of the Etihad Energy Service Company, Vice Chairman of Mai Dubai, Member of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and Member of World Green Economy Organization.

He graduated from Colorado Tech University and has an MBA from the American University of Dubai.

come together with us, hand in hand, to fight the war against climate change and build a better future, one that is green and sustainable for the coming generations.

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HIS EXCELLENCY SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER VICE CHAIRMAN, DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY MD & DEO, DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY CHAIRMAN, WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT

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very year on 2nd December, the United Arab Emirates celebrates its union, blessed by the foresight and wisdom of its Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose vision of a united nation has inspired its leaders to walk in his path and build a better and brighter future for its people. Today, this union continues to bear that fruit, with combined efforts to bring the best possible infrastructure and services to the citizens and residents of the UAE. Our nation is united in its efforts to see the development of clean energy, with solar projects in Abu Dhabi, as well as in Dubai.

These efforts support the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, announced by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice

President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to meet the UAE’s economic requirements and environmental goals. Abu Dhabi recently launched Noor Abu Dhabi — the world’s largest single solar plant — with a capacity of 1,177MW. Dubai is progressing with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park in the world, based on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, with a planned production capacity of 5,000 MW by 2030, and total investments of up to AED 50 billion.

Our union, and the visionary leadership of the UAE, are the foundations of our achievements so far, and will drive us to even greater ones in the future, for generations to come.

CHAPTER

1

THE UNION IS THE

FOUNDATION

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT:

ACHIEVING SECURITY

By HE ALI AL JASSIM CEO, ETIHAD ESCO

HIS EXCELLENCY ALI AL JASSIM DISCUSSES THE CORE COMPONENTS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND ELABORATES ON BEST PRACTICES TO ENSURE THEIR SECURITY IN THE FUTURE.

A

United Nations report has predicted that the world population will hit the 9.8-billion mark by 2050, with approximately 83 million people being added to the current number yearly . With this rapid pace, the pressure is mounting on Earth’s finite global resources and it will only intensify in the midst of the growing social and environmental issues that have surfaced alongside the population boom and exponential worldwide development. Thus, the emergence of sustainable development as a paradigm designed to address these challenges.

Countries all over the world have adopted the sustainable development path,

focussing, among others, on water, food, and energy as demand for these resources continues on the upswing, fuelled not only by the booming population, but also by other factors, such as rising income and changing lifestyles. Power consumption, for instance, has skyrocketed six times more than the 1950 level, with an industry report projecting that energy use will grow by as much as 55% by 2030. In terms of food consumption, the level is rising at a yearly rate of 12%.

Water, energy, and food security are at the heart of sustainable development efforts, with the objective of ensuring that the coming generations will have sufficient access to these life essential resources.

In the GCC region, sustainability is at the core of many government policies, laws, and regulations. The Gulf

The UAE is one of the GCC member countries with active sustainable development initiatives. A number of socioeconomic frameworks and plans are geared towards the country’s development with high regard to the environment and natural resources. UAE Vision 2021, UAE Centennial 2071, and the 50-Year Charter are some of these frameworks developed not only to catapult the Emirates into the world’s prosperous states, but also to make sure that this exponential development is fulfilled without sacrificing the needs of future generations.

Etihad ESCO, the Super ESCO in Dubai, is a critical part of the government’s efforts to use renewables and promote sustainability. Up until 2018, Etihad ESCO retrofitted more than 2100 facilities, which is helping to reduce Dubai’s energy consumption by 106 GWh per annum. By end of 2019, Etihad ESCO will retrofit additional 2400 facilities, which will decrease

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

countries are continuously working towards building interdependent and integrated solutions to secure enough supply of water, food, and power for the current and future generations.

This entails establishing sustainable, efficient, and healthy ecosystems to prevent scarcity, especially during times of severe droughts and floods, as well as sustaining reliable food and energy production. It also means taking care of nature to achieve water, energy, and food security, including wetlands, floodplains, forests, and many more.

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Up until 2018, Etihad ESCO retrofitted more than 2100 facilities, which is helping to reduce Dubai’s energy consumption by 106 GWh per annum. By end of 2019, Etihad ESCO will retrofit additional 2400 facilities, which will decrease Dubai’s consumption by 182 GWh per annum.

Dubai’s consumption by 182 GWh per annum.

In terms of sustainable food production, the government has mandated that all food items comply with the highest standards of sustainable production and water efficiency and bear the Sustainable Agriculture label. The label also implies that no chemicals have been utilised and the food products are produced using innovative technologies.

To guarantee water, food, and energy security, the following elements play a critical role: advanced technologies, such as smart grid meters, automation, and machine learning; green infrastructure; environmentally friendly policies, such as recycling and reuse, land-management practices, purification and wastewater treatment, and sustainable urban planning; and innovations such as rainwater catchments.

Sustainable consumption of water, energy, and food is the basic component of sustainable development. Improper management of these resources can sabotage socio-economic gains, to the detriment of the nations and their people.

However, water, energy, and food security is not the sole responsibility of the public sector alone. It requires concerted efforts from all segments of society to build a sustainable and prosperous future for all. Now is the time to intensify initiatives and form cooperation to create the world that we want.

About HE ALI AL JASSIM HE Ali Al Jassim is the CEO of Etihad Energy Services.

Presently HE Al Jassim is leading Etihad - The Super ESCO in the Emirate of Dubai, with a vision to make Dubai one of the most sustainable cities and a leading example of energy efficiency for the region and the world.

HE Al Jassim is playing a key role in the expansion of Etihad ESCO. He formed two verticals under Etihad umbrella – Etihad Solar & Etihad M&V – in 2017 and is currently working to develop a district cooling vertical and building labeling. He is also strategically expanding the footprint of Etihad ESCO to the MENA region and other parts of the world.

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THE FEDERAL ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY

IMPLEMENTS THE WATER SECURITY STRATEGY 2036 ON SEVERAL AXES

By MOHAMMAD MOHAMMAD SALEH DIRECTOR GENERAL, THE FEDERAL ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY (FEWA)

MOHAMMAD MOHAMMAD SALEH OUTLINES THE UAE WATER SECURITY STRATEGY 2036, AS THE COUNTRY EQUIPS ITSELF FOR ANTICIPATED WATER SCARCITY CHALLENGES.

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he Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA) is implementing the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, which was prepared in cooperation with the Ministry of Energy and Industry and approved by the Cabinet, on several axes as follows: THE LARGEST SEAWATER DESALINATION PLANT IN THE UAE The Authority has approved the establishment of the largest seawater desalination plant in the UAE, based on the study of future water demand.

The plant will be implemented through an alliance between MDC Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company, and ACWA Power, a Saudi international desalination and power generation company. It will be implemented in two phases. The first phase will produce 50 million gallons per day, with up to 150 million gallons per day produced after the launch of the second phase.

The emirate of Umm Al Quwain was chosen for the plant location, due to its mediation of the areas under FEWA’s jurisdiction.

The Authority’s production of desalinated water has increased from approximately 11,500 million gallons per day in 2013 to 19600 million gallons per day at the end of 2018.

INCREASE WATER STORAGE CAPACITY FEWA decided to increase water storage capacity to about 430 million gallons from a base of 220 million gallons. The planned storage projects include construction of the largest water distribution center in the Al Khraijah area of Ras Al Khaimah, which will be fed from the new plant in Umm Al Quwain. It will provide water to the areas of Al Hamra, Al Refaa, Al Dhait and Al Hamraniya.

The Authority is also implementing

MAINTAIN STORED WATER QUALITY

The Health, Safety and Environment Department of FEWA completes monthly sampling of water in tanks and distribution networks and tracks the level of water quality according to the international standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO), recording 98% for the latest FEWA audit report.

FEWA has adopted a comprehensive plan for the implementation of transmission and distribution network projects, ensuring the authority areas are connected to each other and the water supply sources are connected with strategic distribution centers and distribution networks for consumers.

Authority (SEWA) to implement several points of connection between networks.

The Authority adopted a plan to replace the old networks made of asbestos to reduce water losses in the networks and conserve water resources, with all old networks due to be replaced within 10 years starting in 2017.

It is noteworthy that the total cost of the future projects of the Authority in the water sector is estimated at AED 2 billion.

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The Authority adopts an annual plan for the maintenance and cleaning of water tanks, depending on the type and size of the tank, to ensure they are free of sediment or bacterial components that may harm the health of consumers.

A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT OF WATER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION.

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

new distribution centers in Al Helio in Ajman, Al Burairat and Al Gayl in Ras Al Khaimah, and Wadi Al Abadilah in Al Fujairah, in addition to the establishment of a range of tanks with different capacities in various areas in the north of the UAE.

To this end, FEWA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to implement interconnection of the two water networks to ensure mutual water supply in emergency cases. In addition, a preliminary agreement has been signed between FEWA and Sharjah Electricity and Water

About MOHAMMAD MOHAMMAD SALEH Mohammad Mohammad Saleh, is the Director General of the Federal Electricity and Water Authority. He started his career in FEWA since 1984 and was appointed as Director General in the year 2008.

Under his leadership, FEWA has been self-financing its projects since 2013 and received several local, regional and international awards.

Saleh led the Comprehensive development process in the Authority and incorporated it into the system of government excellence.

He developed a governance system that ensures accountability, transparency and compliance with legislation. FEWA adopted a Business Continuity System that is in line with the National Standards.

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THE UNION KNOWS

NO IMPOSSIBLE THE RECENTLY LAUNCHED MINISTRY OF POSSIBILITIES – THE WORLD’S FIRST VIRTUAL MINISTRY – IS MANDATED TO HANDLE VITAL NATIONAL ISSUES AND BUILD NEW GOVERNMENT SYSTEMS FOR THE FUTURE.

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he Ministry of Possibilities, a title reflecting the tenacity and optimism of the United Arab Emirates, was chosen by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to facilitate the country’s vision in ensuring sustainable solutions and development. The virtual ministry was born in 2019 out of the necessity for a space to advance radical solutions through analysing the trends of the future and developing exceptional Emiratis in response, while ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills. The virtual nature of the ministry allows for a decentralised organisational structure that is able to take advantage of the capabilities of various federal government officials, private sector officials, and distinguished individuals.

The Ministry of Possibilities has announced various strategic objectives, such as reducing waiting times from 60 days to six minutes through digital platforms. “We want our team to achieve unprecedented results and complete the tasks of the Ministry of Possibilities in record time, to launch a new phase of challenges. We do not have the luxury of time because there are pressing issues that cannot be postponed,” HH Sheikh Mohammed emphasised. It is spearheaded by four

members of the UAE Cabinet, each of whom will focus on one of the four pillars of the first phase: Anticipatory Services, Behavioral Rewards, UAE Talent, and Government Procurement.

When announcing the Ministry of Possibilities, HH Sheikh Mohammed underlined that “the future brings challenges that require constant government restructuring. The word impossible does not exist in our dictionary. It is not part of our vision and will never be part of our future.”

The Department of Government Procurement plays a vital role in government restructuring, and His Excellency Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, has been mandated to maximise and accelerate government services, particularly in relation to business stakeholders.

The Department of Anticipatory Services optimises customer experiences by acting as a preventative

“Young talents are the next generation of pioneers and our real assets as we embark on the journey to shape the future and build a society rich in Emirati talent across all sectors,” said Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, the Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development and Head of the Department of UAE Talent. This department is tasked with the creation of an empowering and purposeful teaching environment that instills necessary skills within Emiratis to enable their leadership potential for the future. The department’s executive plan consists of an identification system for UAE talent, and the creation of networking opportunities between the respective individuals and governmental, private, educational, and research institutions in different

industries. HE Al Kaabi said, “The UAE talent department is critical to fulfilling the government’s aspirations to position the UAE as a land for talent, which inspires youth, and supports their emergence into successful leaders and pioneers.”

Ongoing regional and international developments have created uncertainty for what the future holds, but the United Arab Emirates has remained focused on surpassing expectations and creating positive growth in terms of government, technology, society, and the environment.

HH Sheikh Mohammed stated, “The reality we live in the UAE today is a product of unconventional leadership”. The Ministry of Possibilities’ plans harness the benefits of disruptive innovation and design thinking as a reflection of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s philosophy.

Through its work it will bolster the UAE in line with the country’s vision to become the leading nation on a global scale by the 100th anniversary of its founding.

CHAPTER 1

His Highness Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, was chosen by HH Sheikh Mohammed to take charge of the Department of Behavioral Rewards.

HH Sheikh Saif highlighted the importance of this department, stating, “The Department of Behavioral Rewards within the Ministry of Possibilities is a pioneering initiative launched by the UAE Government as part of its leadership vision to enhance the positive behaviour of the community and its institutions and to invest the positive energies existing in the UAE society and form an institutional framework”. The creation of a reward system applicable to government service

payments to incentivise positive behaviour is the department’s priority objective. Executive work plans have already been approved to conduct research on societal incentives and behaviour, establish government entity incentive frameworks, and develop an accessible smart application.

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

power, addressing weaknesses that have the potential to become customer issues. Led by Her Excellency Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, the Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, the department is adamant about taking a proactive approach, rather than a reactive approach, when attempting to overcome institutional and customer challenges.

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ADVOCATING FOR

EMIRATI WOMEN

By GENERAL WOMEN’S UNION (GWU)

THE GENERAL WOMEN’S UNION PAINTS A PORTRAIT OF PROGRESS, HIGHLIGHTING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF HER HIGHNESS SHEIKHA FATIMA BINT MUBARAK AND THE ORGANISATION EMPOWERING EMIRATI WOMEN.

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he General Women’s Union (GWU) is a government entity with a strategic vision to expand the role of women and highlight their positive contributions across various sectors. One of the GWU’s objectives includes creating a network of local, regional, and international organisations solely focused on raising awareness of women’s issues and the repercussions faced without women’s active participation in sustainable growth.

Developing women’s capabilities, empowering women, and achieving gender balance and equality are the top priorities of the GWU. The organisation provides a comprehensive portfolio of initiatives and training and awareness programmes, based both on analytical studies on women in the UAE and international standards pertaining to women’s empowerment and leadership.

Everything that has been accomplished to date in advancing the role of women in UAE society is the result of a seed planted by visionary leader and founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and brought to fruition by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed AlNahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, amongst other rulers of the UAE.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, is continuing the legacy of overcoming societal challenges, elevating the nation through the empowerment and protection of Emirati women. Women played an essential role when setting the national agenda for economic growth, which ensures the fulfillment of their ambitions and aspirations through preparing and developing them to their greatest capabilities.

August 27, 1975, was a significant date for the Emirati women’s empowerment movement, as it was the day the GWU was formed by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. The GWU was to become the designated national authority to oversee Emirati women, encourage female leadership within different industries, and promote equality between genders.

Her Highness has ensured the creation of relationships with all government

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH LEGISLATION

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH POLITICS The efforts of the GWU are evident in the development of the competencies of Emirati women to make political contributions through the organisation of conventions, seminars, and specialised workshops with the UN Women, ESCWA, UNDP, and the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs. These initiatives provided opportunities for Emirati women to utilise their experience alongside other Arab States during the election period. Confidence in Emirati women’s role in politics was exemplified when a woman assumed the role of President of the Federal National Council, given the right to stand for election and vote.

This has lead to an equal gender participation rate. It is worth noting that women are also taking on leadership positions in the Council of Ministers and as diplomats, ambassadors, and Consuls General at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ECONOMY: The GWU has launched a set of initiatives that aid in the economic empowerment of women through programmes and training workshops to develop administrative, investment, technical, and language skills. The organisation also assisted in establishing the Emirati Women’s Business Council and this has lead to multiple local councils working with national organisations to hold workshops dedicated to fostering

In addition, in 2015, in alignment with government initiatives to transition towards a smart government, the GWU launched an electronic application called the “Application Shop for Productive Families”, which supports the economic empowerment of women and was awarded the best electronic application in the social category at the World Government Summit 2015.

PROMOTING STABILITY AMONGST EMIRATI FAMILIES The GWU supported the establishment of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. This entity aims to increase the standard of care, attention, and monitoring of motherhood and childhood issues, while also providing support to other sectors, such as education, culture, health, society, psychology, and parenting. The safety and security of the mother and child is of the highest priority to the Supreme Council of Motherhood and Childhood. The council monitors and evaluates growth and development plans to achieve wellbeing as well as encouraging studies, research, and the dissemination of comprehensive cultural support for children and mothers.

Other activities include launching of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Award for Motherhood in 1997 and establishing the Office of Women’s Support in 2011, which monitors and analyses the needs of the Emirati Women and takes the necessary steps towards solving problems.

The GWU works to develop women and increase awareness of social issues regarding family, the upbringing of children, and health and environmental issues affecting the safety and stability of the family.

As part of this, the Child Visitation Office was established as a pilot experiment and has flourished in all emirates. The GWU transformed the issue of child visitation in families coping with divorce and familial conflict from being resolved in legal courts and police stations to instead being resolved within the GWU, providing a safe environment for parents and children.

TECHNOLOGICAL EMPOWERMENT The GWU ensures the

empowerment of women in the field of information technology through the Women in Technology Programme, which offers five primary activities for participation with collaborating institutions. These are: training for professional development, sustainable business planning, training in information technology, developing professional growth networks for women, professional exchange, and capacitybuilding.

The most notable accomplishments of the GWU are in the technology sector and include: • • •

The creation of an appllication containing the biography of HH Sheikha Fatima.

CHAPTER 1

The GWU works in cooperation with relevant legislative and judicial committees and sectors responsible for the implementation of national, regional and international laws, agreements, and conventions in regards to addressing women’s and children’s issues in the UAE. One of the significant laws the GWU aided in shaping was the 2005 Personal Status Law and the Tobacco Control Law.

entrepreneurship and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

sectors and cooperation with women’s associations and civil society organisations in the country, founded on the belief that integration and the utilisation of all experience and knowledge is best for the development of the nation.

Establishing the Shop for Productive Families application, which became an economic project employing smart market understanding to empower women and families in economic terms.

•

Establishing a comprehensive national women’s database in the UAE.

•

Launching an Emirati Women Encyclopedia, which is an important step in promoting role complementarity in governmental, private, and civil institutions on a local and national level for the sake of achieving national women’s empowerment strategies.

ATHLETIC EMPOWERMENT The GWU aims to reduce the difficulties surrounding active participation in the field of sports through the General Women’s Union Sports Committee, which organises numerous athletic championships.

THE PRESERVATION OF TRADITIONAL CRAFTS The preservation of traditional crafts and handicrafts is one of the economic activities the community relied on in the UAE before the age of oil, and it made a significant contribution to familial income. HH Sheikha Fatima has highlighted the importance of these crafts by establishing handicraft centres.

The GWU works to harness the experiences of Emirati women, employing, and developing the next generation to preserve the cumulative heritage and culture, while empowering women.

61

DUBAI EXECUTIVE COUNCIL:

UNITING ENTITIES FOR A GREENER TOMORROW By SAMIRA AL RAIS SENIOR DIRECTOR OF POLICY AND STRATEGY, THE GENERAL SECRETARIAT OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF DUBAI THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES WAS FOUNDED IN 1971 ON THE UNION OF THE PEOPLE OF THE SEVEN EMIRATES AND IT HAS BEEN THE LEADERSHIP’S GUIDANCE FOR THE PEOPLE TO UNITE IN PRESERVING THE LAND AND ITS RESOURCES. EACH EMIRATE HAS TRANSLATED THIS LEGACY INTO ITS LOCAL POLICIES AND GOVERNANCE.

THE UNION, AN INSPIRATION FOR LOCAL ACTION Looking more closely at Dubai, the Dubai Plan 2021 has highlighted the environment as one of its key six pillars: “The Place: A smart and sustainable city.”

This includes specific aims for the city to be “sustainable with its resources” and ensure “environmental elements are clean, healthy and sustainable”. To make sure a holistic approach to sustainability is adopted, Dubai Plan 2021 covers the key dimensions of the city, including people, society, experience, place, economy and governance.

In line with these priorities, Dubai’s Executive Council Agenda, led by His Highness Hamdan bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, covers a wide range of topics that have central sustainability and environmental objectives, including the Carbon Abatement Strategy 2016-2021; the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030; the Climate Change Adaptation Strategy; the Green Mobility Strategy; and the Waste Minimisation Strategy. This is testament that sustainability is a focus area for the leadership in the Emirate. The government facilitates the effective communication and approval of the multitude of initiatives to senior leadership at key milestones, guaranteeing alignment and support across the life cycle of policies.

Implementation of Dubai Plan 2021 is a shared responsibility between the government entities of Dubai. To deliver on the plan’s goals, an ongoing collaborative effort is required to initiate the required strategies and develop policies and programmes that will enhance Dubai’s performance across the board.

Many initiatives falling under Dubai Plan 2021 require engagement from a wide range of stakeholders to be successful, such as the Carbon Abatement Strategy led by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, which involves entities including Dubai Municipality, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the Road and Transport Authority, amongst others.

Complementing the goals of Dubai Plan 2021, various government programmes and initiatives have been developed that aim to enhance and foster innovation and excellence in public sector services and operations. An example of such an

initiative is the Dubai Government Excellence Awards Programme, which places a particular focus on sustainable initiatives. These programmes serve to unite government entities to work towards a better tomorrow, as well as acting as enablers for green growth across the emirate.

JOINING FORCES WITH INTERNATIONAL STAKEHOLDERS FOR GREATER IMPACT Building on local momentum in sustainability and environmental efforts, Dubai joined the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, which sees over 90 cities joining forces in climate action. Dubai is now one of the 17 members of the Steering Committee of C40, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to a more sustainable future and its dedication in working with key cities across the globe to drive change and build impact. The member cities of the C40 Network exchange best practices regularly across five key topics, including climate adaptation; air quality; energy; transportation; urban

To deliver on the plan’s goals, an ongoing collaborative effort is required to initiate the required strategies and develop policies and programmes that will enhance Dubai’s performance across the board.

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

CHAPTER 1

planning; and food, water and waste.

Forums specific to each of the key C40 topics are regularly conducted, with representatives from selected cities exchanging information and organising workshops and masterclasses. Similarly, the yearly mayor’s summit brings together senior leadership from the Steering Committee of C40 to discuss key actions required to make significant progress in climate action. This is key to Dubai’s contribution to the global narrative that drives the climate change agenda.

Dubai has hosted two international climate change workshops to date.

The workshops, focusing on climate adaptation and mass transit, highlight the emirate’s commitment to achieving and contributing to a greener tomorrow. Dubai also signed a waste declaration that states its

commitment to increase the diversion rate of waste from landfill and incineration to up to 70% of total waste by 2030 as well as an air quality declaration aiming to enhance air quality and improve communication around air quality and its impacts.

Challenges are inevitable. Achieving the ambitious sustainability goals the Dubai Government has set will not come easy with the city’s arid climate, rapid rate of growth and reliance on fossil fuel-based energy. It is evident, however, that Dubai has overcome numerous tough challenges and continuously earned its position as a frontrunner across many fields. Dubai, driven by the wisdom and vision of its leaders, will continue to push forward with its efforts in the sustainability field, aiming to become a leading city in sustainability and climate action.

About SAMIRA AL RAIS Samira Al Rais is Senior Director of Policy and Strategy for the Sustainable Development Department in the Secretariat General of the Executive Council of Dubai, and is responsible for overseeing the development of sustainable policies covering city planning, natural resources, health, safety and security. She is also responsible for ensuring delivery of the sustainability objectives within Dubai Plan 2021.

63

HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM

A TIMELINE OF ACHIEVEMENTS

1 20

0

60

00

19

1960

1968 APPOINTED HEAD OF DUBAI POLICE AND PUBLIC SECURITY

20

1990 JANUARY 1995 APPOINTED CROWN PRINCE OF DUBAI

1997 MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM HUMANITARIAN & CHARITY ESTABLISHMENT

OCTOBER 2000

1998 THE SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

JANUARY 2001

JANUARY 2001 1999 THE ARAB JOURNALISM AWARD

MAY 2013

18 SEPTEMBER 2017

APRIL 2016

DUBAI’S TOURISM VISION FOR 2020

AN E-LEARNING PROJECT TO PROVIDE FREE ONLINE EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL FOR MORE THAN 50 MILLION STUDENTS IN THE ARAB WORLD

DUBAI AUTONOMOUS TRANSPORTATION STRATEGY

APRIL 2016

JANUARY 2014

DUBAI 3D PRINTING STRATEGY

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

UAE NATIONAL AGENDA

OCTOBER 2017

UAE STRATEGY FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

MAY 2016

NATIONAL LITERACY STRATEGY

OCTOBER 2014

NATIONAL INNOVATION STRATEGY

JUNE 2016

NATIONAL TOLERANCE PROGRAMME

DECEMBER 2014

DUBAI PLAN 2021

JUNE 2016

DUBAI INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY 2030

SEPTEMBER 2016

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE UAE STRATEGY FOR THE FUTURE UAE WATER AID

OCTOBER 2016

UAE NATIONAL YOUTH AGENDA AND STRATEGY

11 JULY 2015

APRIL 2018

LAW FOR ESTABLISHING MOHAMMAD BIN RASHID SPACE CENTRE

APRIL 2017

NOVEMBER 2018

OCTOBER 2015

HE NATIONAL POLICY FOR EMPOWERING PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION

MOBILE GOVERNMENT

MOHAMMAD BIN RASHID INITIATIVE FOR SMART LEARNING FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

MARCH 2019

UAE NATIONAL SPACE STRATEGY 2030

APRIL 2017

NOVEMBER 2015

NATIONAL ADVANCED SCIENCE AGENDA 2031

UAE ENERGY STRATEGY 2050

22 SEPTEMBER 2012

UAE CENTENNIAL 2071

APRIL 2017

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM GLOBAL INITIATIVES

FEBRUARY 2012

DUBAI BLOCKCHAIN STRATEGY 2021

UAE NATIONAL SPACE PROGRAMME

JANUARY 2012

UAE GREEN GROWTH STRATEGY

APRIL 2018

NATIONAL ADVANCED SCIENCES AGENDA 2031

MARCH 2015

JANUARY 2012

CHAPTER 1

FEBRUARY 2015

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE LAUNCH OF MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM SOLAR PARK

FEBRUARY 2018

DUBAI INTERNET OF THINGS STRATEGY

UAE GENDER BALANCE COUNCIL

MAY 2011 GOVERNMENT.AE

OCTOBER 2017

DUBAI INTERNET OF THINGS STRATEGY

NOVEMBER 2015

APRIL 2019

DUBAI CLEAN ENERGY STRATEGY

MINISTRY OF POSSIBILITIES

23 JUNE 2017

HUMANITARIAN ACCELERATORS

JANUARY 2016

DUBAI HEALTH STRATEGY 2021

JUNE 2019

SEPTEMBER 2017

THE UAE WATER SECURITY STRATEGY 2036

APRIL 2007

UAE GOVERNMENT STRATEGY PLAN

NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR WELLBEING 2031

JUNE 2019

APPROVAL OF PLANS FOR A NEW ADVANCED SKILLS STRATEGY

MAY 2007

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM KNOWLEDGE FOUNDATION

SEPTEMBER 2007

DUBAI CARES

SEPTEMBER 2008 28 JUNE 2009 DUBAI 2020

4 JANUARY 2006 2005

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT

APPOINTED RULER OF DUBAI

5 JANUARY 2006 ELECTED AS VICE PRESIDENT BY THE UAE SUPREME COUNCIL

9 SEPTEMBER 2009 DUBAI METRO

9 FEBRUARY 2006 NEW UAE CABINET

18 DECEMBER 2006

FIRST EVER FEDERAL NATIONAL COUNCIL (FNC) ELECTIONS

65

HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR GENERAL ABDULLAH KHALIFA AL MARRI COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, DUBAI POLICE

O

ur commitment to securing the right to a safe life is constantly renewed through our march towards becoming the world’s safest and happiest city. This commitment is reflected in fierce development, pioneering policing technology and security innovation to keep a dynamic city like Dubai, with a population of three million and over 16 million annual visitors, safe and secure at all times.

service interactive police station that allows community members to benefit from Dubai Police services without any human intervention, thereby reducing services delivery duration to five minutes, compared to a standard 124-minute delivery.

Since 2017, Dubai Police have established seven smart police stations across Dubai, with plans to transform all stations from traditional to smart by 2030.

To achieve the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, portrayed in the Dubai 2021 Plan and the Smart Dubai Strategic Plan to transform Dubai into the world’s smartest city, Dubai Police have launched several initiatives that have revolutionised the concept of Police Forces, and have put Dubai at the forefront of advanced policing solutions.

We Are All Police

Sustainable Fleeting The force adopts efficient practices in its operations with specific focus on fleet management, aiming, through the I-serve initiative, to transform the entire fleet model of Dubai Police into a sharing model. I-serve offers employees an attractive mobility solution that reduces the organisational carbon footprint and associated financial costs.

The Smart Police Station To assist in combating any form of violence or imposed threat in Dubai, Dubai Police have launched the first-of-its-kind Smart Police Station (SPS), an integrated, self-

The force overcomes modern challenges through initiatives such as Oyoon – an innovative solution that identifies wrongdoers and criminal activities across the city through surveillance cameras fitted with artificial intelligence software to track and analyse suspicious movements.

Furthermore, as we believe that “We Are All Police”, community members can participate in combatting crime through reporting suspicious activities or any form of crime at any given time through the e-crime online portal. In this manner, the entire Dubai community can contribute to preserving the safety of the community and the sustainable development of our nation.

For Our Community Throughout this transformation, we have learnt that the role of Dubai Police is not confined to providing security at the national and individual level, but also to ensure respect towards the operating environment is upheld, as this will surely benefit the country now and in the future.

Through this concept, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring all citizens experience the safest and happiest lifestyle.

CHAPTER

2

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

SUSTAINABLE ENERGY

THROUGH INNOVATIVE GOVERNANCE By TAHER DIAB SENIOR DIRECTOR – STRATEGY & PLANNING, DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY (DSCE)

TAHER DIAB SHEDS LIGHT ON THE ENERGY POLICY FRAMEWORK DEVISED BY THE DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY TO ACHIEVE ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY.

2050 OVER 20,000 MW OF SOLAR PV ONLINE

FIRST 1,000 MW OF GREEN PEAKERS OFFSET SOLAR PV INTERMITENCY

2045 2038

FIRST 1,000 MW OF BATTERY STORAGE ADDED TO THE EXISTING 250 MW HATTA PUMPED STORAGE

B

EYOND POWER GENERATION: SUSTAINABILITY AS A COMPREHENSIVE ECOSYSTEM

The unprecedented growth of energy demand in the MENA region has elevated the necessity to seek smart strategy towards the security of supply and diversification of fuel sources. The energy demand set a growth rate of 4% to 11% for the period of 2011 to 2015 with increased reliance on fossil fuel for power and water generation. The fundamental role of consumers to act responsibly and share the burden of government funding for power and fuel was imminent and mandated shift in policy.

In a region historically known for its abundant energy resources, the transformation towards clean energy and sustainable development became

2034

2030

SOLAR CSP BRINGS THE POWER OF THE SUN INTO THE NIGHT

2022

5,000 MW OF SOLAR PV AND CSP INSTALLED

FIRST 1,000 MW OF SOLAR PV INSTALLED

2020

DUBAI CLEAN ENERGY STRATEGY (2050) ROADMAP

Locally, the UAE Government recognised the necessity of a progressive approach and pursued structured energy strategies where demand management and clean energy sources can attain sustainability in resources. The mandate for prudent policy and regulatory framework was evident in the last five years where several commitments are in place to build the momentum and alignment with relevant stakeholders. As part of achieving its sustainable energy goals, Dubai has developed the policy and regulatory regime in energy sector where Public Private Partnership model (PPP) was employed to boost the market participation in key projects such as the solar power generation. This formed a new tendency in the region where government policies regarding infrastructure development are pursued on fundamentals of sustained economic growth and attracting global players for collaboration.

A TURNING POINT IN DUBAI’S ENERGY LANDSCAPE IS THE POLICY FOR PRIVATE-SECTOR PARTNERSHIP In recent years, Dubai positioned itself on the global map as a regional hub for tourism, logistics and finance.

Today, the emirate is one of the fastest growing cities in the world.

This translates into relatively high demand for electricity and water

DIES 2030 is aligned with the national and local vision-making, as it is an effective tool to meet the UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021 sustainable energy objectives.

The policy & regulatory regime in Dubai’s energy sector has been overhauled. Demand reduction through energy efficiency has been a focus of Dubai’s policy interventions to rationalise the use of power and water. The demand side management (DSM) strategy has led to performance-based programmes and technical levers for savings in capital, along with operational and opportunity costs.

This created a market for energy service contracting companies (ESCOs) to drive energy efficiency projects, starting with retrofitting government buildings by establishing Etihad ESCO to support the growth of local ESCOs and facilitate access to finance.

CHAPTER 2

Viable schemes combining economic, social and environmental aspects are evolving to create a long-lasting balance between them.

In the GCC region, the notion of available, abundant and long-lasting fuel energy with reliable return from its export is no longer true. The recent price volatility of oil has revealed risks and uncertainties towards reliance on the hydrocarbon legacy. Therefore, the cost of energy has influenced policymakers to reduce subsidies where consumers’ behavior became part of sustaining energy resources.

with forecasted electricity demand for the next decade between 3% to 5% in yearly growth. Therefore, demand reduction and energy efficiency became a top priority on Dubai’s Green Agenda. To fuel its economic growth and maintain its prominent regional and global position, Dubai is innovating a smart strategy managing demand, diversifying fuel sources, securing supply and fostering green growth. The emirate took progressive strides in integrating solar power into its energy mix portfolio. Its robust regulatory framework and commercial terms have attracted regional and international investors to achieve one of the lowest levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) for the phased solar CSP & PV power plants.

As it pursues the target of 5,000MW installed capacity by 2030, this development marked a turning point in the journey to diversify Dubai’s energy mix and demonstrated the value proposition of strategic public private partnerships for risk management, knowledge transfer and green jobs creation. By fostering partnerships with leading international firms in clean energy, Dubai also aims to develop its local capacities through transfer of global knowledge and skills into the local region.

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

the core of planning for the future.

Today, the terms ‘green, efficiency, and low carbon’ are the trend in business and community dialogues, not to mention the increased in the awareness towards energy, efficiency and sustainability. A structured approach through prudent energy policies targeting energy efficiency, demand reduction, energy security, and diversification of fuel sources is high on national agendas to foster sustainable development.

In a relatively short period, the emirate has delivered an innovative regulatory framework where the energy management programmes delivered tangible results. The green economy transformation in Dubai has created new jobs, supported local contractors and contributed to the UAE knowledge-based economy.

THE JOURNEY TO SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Energy strategies across the world focus on key levers driving local economies; energy security, efficiencies and sustainable growth forming the common denominators.

Several countries around the world have realised the importance of developing a coherent, cohesive energy strategy to meet their future energy needs. For Dubai, its achievements were a natural result of thoughtful actions and the exemplary governance model of its energy sector. A model that is referred to as one of the few comprehensive demonstrations of streamlined energy sector. This model stems from the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy (DIES 2030) which details a roadmap to achieve various targets by 2030. The roadmap is based on building a world-class regulatory framework to accelerate the diversification of the energy mix and facilitate effective demand side management. DIES has recently been updated to reflect the timeline towards the year 2050 and establishes a long term strategy outlook, encompassing all elements of a coherent Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.

About TAHER DIAB Taher Diab is the Senior Director of Strategy & Planning at Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Secretary General of the Emirates Energy Award.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering from the University of New Orleans (1989), and is a graduate of the Hazardous Waste Institute at the University of Louisville (1992) and holds certification as an IRCA Quality Lead Assessor..

His career spans over 29 years of diversified experience in the energy sector focusing on business planning, strategy development, corporate governance, risk management and sustainability. He worked with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the ADNOC Group (UAE) and Qatar Petrochemical Company before joining the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy in 2011.

69

EMBRACING DISRUPTIVE INNOVATION:

C3 COURT DUBAI COURTS HAS BEEN AHEAD OF THE CURVE IN THE ADOPTION OF STRATEGIES THAT UPHOLD THE COUNTRY’S STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES AND VISION.

T

he rule of law is an essential component in evaluating the success of a society, and it foretells the degree of citizen happiness and well-being. Dubai Courts strives to ensure the safety and justice of all people under its wing, and aspires to pioneer the work of courts. The entity is adamant about “achieving justice through the swift and accurate settlement of litigations, execution of court rulings and documentation of instruments by engaging qualified national cadres and using advanced systems, procedures and technologies”. Thus, when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, called on all entities of the Dubai Government to incorporate disruptive technologies and strategies at every organisational level through participating in the Dubai 10X initiative, Dubai Courts was one of the first to heed the call through the establishment of the C3 Court.

The Dubai 10X initiative requires entities to establish a separate unit with the objective of pursuing potential processes or technologies that would disrupt their own organisation, creating a system that would allow for the trial of these solutions, and developing practices that offer opportunities to partner with external organisations utilising disruptive technologies. The C3 Court is one of 26 initiatives designed by more than 20 government entities. These initiatives were evaluated and selected from a pool of 160 initiatives by a committee appointed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council.

The revolutionary core concept behind the C3 Court is the concurrent judicial proceedings of the three courts – first instance, appeal, and supreme court – rather than hearing them consecutively. Presently, up to 11 judges and three clerks handle a single case, with approximately 60,000 civil and criminal cases heard annually.

Through the proposed C3 Court initiative, the entity could save time and resources, reducing staff numbers to three judges and one clerk. His Excellency Tarash Eid Al Mansoori, Director General of Dubai Courts, offered his insight on the benefits and long-term effects this project would invoke, saying, “The implementation of the project will reduce the time of litigation, simplify litigation procedures, enforce judgments and reduce costs. The new concept provides a solution for challenges faced by the courts due to lengthy procedures and prolonged judicial proceedings.

The C3 Court will simplify and accelerate court proceedings so they do not exceed

one month. The Dubai 10X initiative has provided a significant boost to Dubai Courts’ strategic goals and its international competitiveness and capabilities”.

To facilitate the changes that such an initiative requires, the entity has adopted small-scale technologies, processes, and strategies, such as the virtual hearing method Zhara. This Skype-assisted technology is timesaving, allowing judges to hold brief hearings through virtual communications in times of emergency and outside working hours.

His Excellency Judge Khaled Al Mansouri highlighted the uses of this system, stating, “We are offering full privacy to the people involved. They would come to the courtroom feeling embarrassed, shy and very often hiding their faces. However, the new system has spared them all of those. No more traffic hassles, or the need for police guards or equipped cars. No more road risks of any kind. We are moving further ahead towards achieving our strategic goals of having pioneering judiciary worldwide”.

Dubai Courts has been ahead of the curve in the adoption of strategies that uphold the country’s strategic objectives and vision. Recent advances in the UAE, such as the Dubai Paperless Strategy, the Dubai Clean Energy 2050 Strategy, and the UAEPASS Strategy are all fully supported by Dubai Courts, as the entity understands the necessity of pioneering not only on its own, but also alongside other entities and organisations to fulfill its role in realising the UAE’s strategic vision.

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THE COLLISION BETWEEN

CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE W

By FARIDA QTAISHAT TECHNICAL OFFICER, DUBAI CARBON

THE INTEGRATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE PRINCIPLES INTO CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION EFFORTS IS CRUCIAL FOR EFFECTIVE CLIMATE ACTION. THIS APPROACH IS SUBSTANTIATED THROUGH CARBON FOOTPRINT QUANTIFICATION.

e often think about climate change and its direct impacts in relation to loss in biodiversity, rising sea levels and extreme weather conditions, while leaving considerations of human justice at the margins. We are all living with climate change, yet, some of us are suffering the consequences more severely than others, specifically individuals within low-income, marginalised groups and indigenous communities. The mainstream climate change discourse has always been coined with its impact on the natural world, but over the past two decades, there has been a shift from ecocentrism to a more interdisciplinary approach that sheds light on the main pillars of environmental justice. These are procedural justice, distributive justice and recognitional justice which are defined as shown in Figure 1.

The intricate link between the current climate crisis and the aforementioned tenants of environmental justice is based on the inevitable impacts of climate change on marginalised and disadvantaged groups. Climate change is indeed a global crisis; greenhouse gas emissions are not confined within borders – they are becoming trapped in increasing concentrations in the atmosphere, leading to a gradual increase in Earth’s temperature. This is causing a series of detrimental impacts that are influenced by a country’s, or even a community’s, economic and geographical characteristics. For instance, underdeveloped and developing nations cannot bear the cost of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, making them more vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, food shortages and rising sea levels. This exemplifies the principle of distributive justice, whereby climate change has a disproportionate impact and the most socially and economically disadvantaged groups and nations suffer the most despite their contribution to the causes of climate change being the least.

In the context of climate change, the principle of recognitional justice

DISTRIBUTIVE JUSTICE Environmental “bads” (harms or risks) and “goods” (resources) are distributed equally and not concentrated

PROCEDURAL JUSTICE Fair and democratic decision- making processes involving disadvantaged groups

suggests that there should be respect for and recognition of the needs of all social identities in the current and future generations. This will enable them to thrive and flourish without being restricted by the adverse consequences of the climate crisis, such as water and food shortages, habitat destruction and transmission of diseases. Since the consequences of climate change transcend time and space, intra and intergenerational equity is compromised, especially if some nations lack the governance mechanisms that ensure valid representatives from alienated and marginalised groups are involved in policy-making so that their interests and priorities are reflected and taken into consideration in this fight against climate change. Lack of recognition is often evident in the case of migrations, where individuals choose to settle in areas within a country that are deemed safer and could bring better job opportunities. Such individuals are often excluded from climate action plans, such as municipal disaster management, as well as climate resilience building and economic development. This makes them powerless in the face of extreme weather conditions and climatic variations that can disrupt their livelihoods, limit their food and water intake and destroy their homes, particularly in the case of informal settlements.

Along with the disproportionate placement of burdens associated with climate change and the lack of recognition for some groups in relation to the climate crisis, procedural justice is another important dimension of environmental justice. It is concerned with the fair participation and engagement of community members in the decision-making process. This applies not only to vulnerable or minority groups, but also to the general public. Decisions pertaining to climate mitigation and adaptation are not as effective if they follow a top-down approach, rather than an inclusive and participatory bottom-up or democratic mechanism, which achieves meaningful collective action. While it is impossible to include the voices of every individual on Earth in the discussions, the idea is to at least have solid representation of different groups when it comes to the planning or execution of plans and projects on a local level. While international agreements are mostly restricted to very high state authorities, it is essential to ensure that those agreements are tailored to needs and interests at the local level, as they cascade down following a participatory approach.

If we follow the Polluter Pays Principle, where the polluter bears the cost of any damage to the environment or human health, we can also bring the different tenets of environmental justice into the equation to make sure they are being addressed.

Since we cannot manage what we do not measure, a good first step to quantify our contribution to climate change and its unjust consequences would be to calculate our carbon footprint. This will not only provide a detailed overview of the current environmental performance of a company, city or country, but it will also help identify opportunities for significant emission reductions by directly addressing the major contributing emission sources. International greenhouse gas accounting standards and calculation methodologies allow the quantification of greenhouse gas emissions at different scales, ranging from

CHAPTER 2

Figure 1

Whichever emission reduction approach we opt for to tackle the climate crisis, whether it is as radical as switching to 100% renewable energy supply or as simple as car-pooling, our choice is as powerful as the impact it produces. The best way to measure that impact will be through greenhouse gas accounting.

While this may be the first effective step to take in mitigating and combatting climate change, it is also crucial not to keep the principles of environmental justice at the sidelines of what we do. In the end, it is important to remember that our fight against climate change is not only for the drowning cities, dying species and stagnant rivers – it is also a fight for justice.

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

RECOGNITIONAL JUSTICE Respect for and recognition of disadvantaged communities who suffer from environmental injustices

the country level to the product level.

In addition, specific guidelines are available on how to quantify emissions for specific sectors and industries, thus allowing an accurate and precise quantification of our contribution to climate change incorporating varying degrees of complexity for the activities involved.

About FARIDA QTAISHAT Farida Qtaishat holds a Master of Science in Environment and Sustainable Development from University College London. As a Consultant, she worked in Peru, where she investigated urban risk traps in Jose Carlos Mariategui and developed a series of strategies aimed at improving housing conditions, environmental quality and overall urban sustainability at the informal settlements.

At Dubai Carbon, Ms Qtaishat is currently involved in the quantification of GHG emissions in accordance with international guidelines and standards including IPCC 1996, IPCC 2006 and the Global Protocol for Community-Scale GHG Emission Inventories.

Her areas of expertise include GHG accounting, strategies pertaining to carbon management, carbon abatement and sustainability and data analysis and management.

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DUBAI TOURISM FOCUSES ON DRIVING

COMPREHENSIVE SUSTAINABLE MEASURES ACROSS THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR By YOUSUF LOOTAH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – TOURISM DEVELOPMENT & INVESTMENTS, DUBAI TOURISM (DTCM) BUILDING ON THE CITY’S SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS, DUBAI TOURISM SUPPORTS THE HOTEL SECTOR WITH INITIATIVES THAT AIM TO ACTIVELY DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES ACROSS THE INDUSTRY, ULTIMATELY CONTRIBUTING TO THE UAE’S BROADER CLEAN ENERGY TARGETS.

D

ubai is growing at an exponential rate. The emirate’s tourism industry continues to be a key contributor to nationwide development and economic growth, with 8.36 million international overnight visitors in the first six months (January – June) of 2019 setting the stage for continuing momentum in line with Dubai’s Tourism Vision 2022-2025. Much like the city, Dubai’s hospitality industry is experiencing steady progress. It is therefore no surprise that the tourism and hospitality sectors play critical roles in ensuring a responsible and sustainable environment for residents and visitors.

Working to inspire change towards a more sustainable future, Dubai Tourism has actively embraced a model that helps promote a greener, more environmentallyfriendly future with the ongoing Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) initiative, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to bolster Dubai’s position as the world’s leading sustainable tourism destination. The initiative is also

aligned with Dubai’s Carbon Abatement Strategy, issued by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, which outlines a commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 16% from 2015 to 2021.

The DST programme is being implemented in collaboration with our network of public and privatesector stakeholders including hotels, government bodies, non-profit organisations and environmental groups, to successfully put into effect processes and tools that measure the impact and effectiveness of sustainable tourism strategies, such as the Sustainability Board Game, the ‘12 Steps Towards Sustainability’ Manual and the Carbon Calculator.

To further support its DST initiative, Dubai Tourism launched 19 Sustainability Requirements on January 1, 2019 for hotel establishments across all classifications to advance performance across the industry. In addition, to support and encourage hotels to actively drive green tourism practices, Dubai Tourism continues to conduct a series of training sessions, increasing awareness of the implementation of these

sustainability requirements, with 76% of Dubai’s hotels to date, with further sessions planned throughout 2020.

As Dubai further strengthens its tourism linked economy through the variety of unique visitor experiences available for travellers, Dubai Tourism will continue to build on and support the sustainability of the sector by contributing to the broader clean energy and development targets set out in collaboration with Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), Emirates Nature - WWF and Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC), and the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, DEWA and Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence.

A written sustainability policy specific to the establishment that addresses relevant environmental, health, safety, responsible tourism, and community issues.

4. SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE: Establishing a sustainability committee and/or team that includes the general manager and top management staff.

2. PERFORMANCE METRICS:

3. SUSTAINABILITY PERSONNEL TRAINING:

Using the DST Carbon Calculator to track totals for electricity, cooling energy, water, petrol in generators, petrol in vehicles, diesel in vehicles, diesel in generators, refrigerants, refillable CO2 gas in fire extinguishers, LPG, and waste sent to landfill.

To have an individual champion certified via training and verified by Dubai Tourism with responsibility for managing the sustainability programme.

5. COMPLIANCE WITH GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES:

6. EMPLOYEE TRAINING:

Complying with the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy regulations, guidelines and directives.

7. GUEST EDUCATION:

8. GREEN EVENTS:

Engaging guests through clear campaigns and efforts to encourage involvement and participation in sustainability initiatives.

Offering green meeting services to event, conference and business meeting planners.

10. ENERGY MANAGEMENT – AUTOMATION:

11. ENERGY MANAGEMENT – TRANSPORTATION:

Install building management systems that optimise lighting and air conditioning in guest rooms and public areas based on occupancy.

Encourage the use of clean or resource efficient transportation by guests and employees, including public transportation, shuttle services, cycling and walking.

14. WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN:

13. WATER MANAGEMENT – TOWELS AND LINEN: Offer guests the option to reuse linens and towels, with clearly visible signs in rooms and bathrooms.

Create a plan to minimise disposal to landfill and food waste, and encourage recycling and reuse of materials.

All employees receive annual training on the establishment’s sustainability plan and their specific responsibilities.

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

While DST continues to lay the groundwork through robust, standards-driven policies, projects, and training tools, it is imperative to continue to drive conversation and emphasise the importance of adopting best sustainability practices across all tourism touchpoints. One example of this is the recent launch of the online Sustainability Course created in cooperation with the Dubai College of Tourism and its Dubai Way training platform for anyone in Dubai who interacts with a tourist as part of their job. Through this programme, learners can gain knowledge of the three pillars of sustainability – Environmental, Economic and Social – enabling them to understand the role they play in championing sustainability, how they can contribute to increase energy efficiency and manage resource consumption and implementation of best operating and environmental practices.

1. SUSTAINABILITY MANAGEMENT APPROACH:

CHAPTER 2

Another successful outcome of the DST initiative is the issue of personalised Hotel Emission Analysis Reports to hotels in the emirate, offering an overview of each establishment’s emission performance using results from the Carbon Calculator software. The Hotel Emission Analysis Reports provide recommendations for improvement by referring establishments to the ‘12 Steps Towards Sustainability’ manual, which was launched by Dubai Tourism in 2018. The Hotel Emission Analysis aligns with the UAE’s 2021 National Agenda to promote sustainable growth, reinforcing Dubai’s position as the smartest city in the world and a role model in energy efficiency.

THE MANDATORY 19 SUSTAINABILITY REQUIREMENTS HOTEL ESTABLISHMENTS SHOULD ADHERE TO COVER THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

9. ENERGY MANAGEMENT PLAN: The establishment has an energy management plan to improve energy efficiency, without reducing guest comfort.

The energy management plan has reduction objectives and targets.

12. WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN: A plan to conserve water, without reducing guest comfort.

15. WASTE MANAGEMENT – BATHROOM: Reduce waste from toiletries, such as shampoo, soap, shower caps etc. by dispensing in bulk or using recycable packaging.

16. AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT – SMOKING:

17. PURCHASING MANAGEMENT PLAN:

18. PURCHASING MANAGEMENT – FOOD:

19. LOCAL COMMUNITIES:

Ensuring that 75% of guest rooms are non-smoking. For public areas, the establishment adheres to Dubai Municipality rules and regulations.

Give preference to sustainable, local, fair-trade and environmentally friendly goods and services.

The establishment purchases food products free from endangered or protected fish, seafood or other species.

Suppor initiatives for social and community development, as well as environmental conservation initiatives, through donations, volunteering, financial contributions or partnerships.

About YOUSUF LOOTAH Yousuf Lootah, a veteran of the tourism industry for 15 years, leads the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) initiative which was launched by Dubai Tourism to support and encourage hotels to actively drive sustainable tourism practices. An MBA graduate of the prestigious London Business School, as well as holding a Bachelor of Science degree from Boston University School of Management, Yousuf has launched the 19 Sustainability Requirements implemented to support positive change within the industry, the Carbon Calculator, the Hotel Emission Analysis Report and the annual Dubai Sustainable Tourism Awards to honour hotels that deliver on their sustainability goals.

75

CORSIA AND THE FUTURE OF

AVIATION ENVIRONMENT By HE SAIF MOHAMMED AL SUWAIDI DIRECTOR GENERAL, UAE GENERAL CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (GCAA)

THE UAE IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE REGION IN SUPPORTING THE INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANIZATION (ICAO) AND ITS STRATEGIC GOALS.

T

he importance of the environment and its direct impact on the future of the planet remains priority. It has a direct impact on economic growth and the future of the next generation.

International organisations continue to work to reduce the environmental impact of aviation, and the establishment of the UAE’s aviation environment working group marked a significant milestone in ensuring environmental issues are given high importance within national and international strategies and agendas.

This working group has expanded in recent years to include various task forces across a range of projects, in line with the international requirements and objectives set by the organisation, as well as the diversity of experts in these teams from the aviation sector and other related sectors, so it can meet all challenges and future requirements, both national and international. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) became a member of the council of the Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) in 2016. This enables the UAE to play a vital role in new projects, legislation and activities.

In 2004, ICAO adopted three major environmental goals: Limit or reduce the number of people affected by significant aircraft noise.

Limit or reduce the impact of aviation emissions on local air quality.

Limit or reduce the impact of aviation greenhouse gas emissions on the global climate.

The 37th Session of the ICAO Assembly adopted aspirational global goals for the international aviation sector, including an annual average fuel efficiency improvement of two per cent and carbon neutral growth from 2020.

CO2 reduction goals are ambitious and challenging and the UAE has always been a regional leader in supporting ICAO’s environmental goals.

CARBON OFFSETTING AND REDUCTION SCHEME FOR INTERNATIONAL AVIATION (CORSIA) At the 39th ICAO Assembly in 2016, ICAO’s climate change resolution was to implement a global Market Base Measure (MBM) scheme, the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), to address annual increases in total CO2 emissions from international civil aviation. In 2016, the UAE committed to be part of the pilot phase of CORSIA implementation. It was the first in the region to do this, evidence of the UAE’s commitment to supporting ICAO’s goals.

The UAE also effectively participated in the CORSIA task force, which immediately began drafting a CORSIA package (Annex 16), including the regulatory framework and capacitybuilding. In parallel to the drafting and approval process, in October 2017, UAE national carriers were part of a smallscale project that helped our national operators who participate in the project to develop a better understanding of the CORSIA requirements. It also built

confidence in their readiness to apply the CORSIA guidelines and helped identify areas of improvement, prior to CORSIA implementation. The project lasted for six months and was highly successful.

In June 2018, the CORSIA package was endorsed by the Member States and in December 2018, it was endorsed by the ICAO council. CORSIA has introduced several methods approved by ICAO to measure and calculate CO2 emissions.

This gave international operators the freedom to choose the method most suitable to their operation. From a government perspective, these Standards and recommended practices (SARPs) provided better understanding of the implementation and the follow-up needed, as well as the understanding that the implementation methodology will vary from one operator to another, as they have different operational systems and emissions calculation methods. Also, the infrastructure is not equal within national and private operators in UAE, therefore the project required the development of communication tools and knowledge exchange platforms to support stakeholders in effective CORSIA implementation according to the CORSIA timeline.

The capacity-building training provided by ICAO in 2018 and 2019 in ICAO regions provided opportunities to improve the knowledge and platforms available and to share ideas regarding market base measures and CORSIA implementation across different areas of the world. It also offered an opportunity to engage with other CORSIA focal points and be exposed to different views. The UAE effectively participated in two training sessions, one in Brisbane, Australia in 2018 and another in Seoul, South Korea in 2019.

These sessions focused on the

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

CHAPTER 2

development of Emissions Monitoring Plans and the establishment of national regulatory frameworks, as well as defining the role of each stakeholder in successful CORSIA implementation. The objectives of the regional workshops in 2019 were to provide further information on the CORSIA implementation requirements and any pending issues regarding the monitoring of CO2 emissions, including procedures for the approval of Emissions Monitoring Plans. The verification of CO2 emissions from international aviation is due by early 2021.

CORSIA IMPLEMENTATION STATUS AND FUTURE STEPS: During the ICAO symposium in May 2019, the UAE presented its progress in CORSIA implementation. Currently, nine registered operators in the UAE are implementing CORSIA SARP’s and timelines, including the four major carriers: Etihad Airways, Emirates Airlines, Air Arabia and Flydubai. The GCAA is working closely with all operators applying CORSIA requirements, providing necessary support and sharing knowledge to ensure successful implementation. To this end, the GCAA has developed an Emissions Management Plan (EMP) approval process and currently the Monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) approval processes are under development.

These will be in effect by the end of 2020. The GCAA has established a working group consisting of major stakeholders to work with the CORSIA focal point in the UAE to draft the CORSIA legal decree and framework to be endorsed nationally. This exemplifies the UAE’s commitment and effort in supporting national and international efforts ito administer CORSIA successfully.

UAE STATE ACTION PLAN (SAP): To ensure continued support of ICAO’s goals, the UAE developed and submitted the initial State Action Plan (SAP) in 2012. This was followed by the establishment of the UAE state action task force, which was supported by the effective contribution of many stakeholders, including government sectors and operators, as well as the private sector. Through the State Action Plan, a number of projects and initiatives have been introduced and adopted by the operators in the UAE with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions. Examples include installation of the latest engine technology and replacing aircraft coating. A comprehensive version of the UAE SAP was submitted to ICAO in May 2018. UAE SAP was recognised as on of the most comprehensive action plans.

THE UAE LEADING THE WAY The UAE worked closely with ICAO not only in developing CORSIA and producing the SAP, but also on many other initiatives to achieve ICAO’s strategic goals. The UAE also participates in a number of ICAO’s Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) working groups, where experts drawn from national stakeholders are part of:

WG 2 : AIRPORTS OPERATION

WG 3 : EMISSIONS

WG 4 : MARKET BASE MEASURE MBM

AFTF : ALTERNATIVE FUEL TASK FORCE

About HE SAIF MOHAMMED AL SUWAIDI HE Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi serves as Director General of General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) since April 2008.

HE Al Suwaidi w a appointed for 2010-2012 and re-elected for 20122014 as a Chairman of Arab Civil Aviation Commission Council.

HE Al Suwaidi began his career as a helicopter pilot in the UAE Air Force in 1981. He served as Head of Training and Operation at Al Minhad base in Dubai in 2001, was appointed Deputy Director Operations in the UAE Air Force in 2006, and promoted to Director of Operations before taking up of the position of Director General of the GCAA. He also holds a Bachelor Degree in Law from Beirut Arab University, Lebanon.

His strategic vision and foresight have been instrumental in advancing the aviation industry and implementing state-ofthe-art technology with safety and security performance in accordance with international standards.

In June 2019, the UAE was appointed to represent the region on the Technical Advisory Body (TAB), which is responsible for assessing the eligibility of worldwide programmes’ emissions to be used for airline’s offsetting requirements in the future.

77

DUBAI’S ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS ARE KEY IN ITS

HAPPINESS AND SUSTAINABILITY

By HE DAWOUD ABDULRAHMAN AL HAJRI DIRECTOR GENERAL, DUBAI MUNICIPALITY

UAE VISION 2021 AND DUBAI PLAN 2021 INCLUDE AMBITIOUS TARGETS RELATED TO SUSTAINABILITY. DUBAI MUNICIPALITY TRANSLATES THESE TARGETS INTO POLICIES, REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES AND IMPLEMENTS THEM THROUGH A RANGE OF INITIATIVES, CONTRIBUTING TO DUBAI’S STATUS AS A PROSPEROUS, SUSTAINABLE AND HAPPY URBAN CENTRE.

D

ubai has experienced a rapid and dramatic transformation like no other city in the world. We have seen steady growth of our population from an estimated 40,000 in 1960, to over 3.2 million people today. Last year, the city received close to 16 million visitors. Blessed with the visionary guidance of our leaders, Dubai has taken centre stage among the most cosmopolitan cities in the modern world.

Dubai has been a leader in advocating and advancing sustainability and social responsibility principles and programmes globally and within the region. We have demonstrated commitment to legislation, initiatives and effective governance to support the achievement of sustainability goals. The global recognition of Dubai as one of the world’s most prosperous and sustainable cities is testament to the transformational vision of the founders of the UAE, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

In 2018, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed articulated the Eight Principles of Governance for Dubai. These principles are meant to guide the relationship between the government and the people, and pave the way to the future. His Highness stated the second principle as “No one is above the Law”, that is; “Justice is the basis of a strong and proud nation and guarantees prosperity and stability”.

Laws, regulations and other legal instruments are fundamental tools used by all governments to set standards, maintain order, resolve disputes, and protect liberties and rights. The law is a guidepost for minimally acceptable behavior in society; the primary mechanism used by governments to enact their policies and plans; and for meeting international obligations. Policies and regulations can provide the signals and conditions necessary to adjust economic behaviors by helping set bold targets, pursue green growth, create incentives and practices that stimulate finance, facilitate green innovations, and develop new markets.

Dubai Municipality is a competent authority operating under the Government of Dubai, directing and implementing municipal affairs, with the aim of creating a happy urban centre to live, work and visit. Dubai Municipality translates goals, targets, opportunities and challenges into relevant policies, regulations and guidelines, and implements them through numerous initiatives related to sustainability. Some of these initiatives include sustainable urban planning, environmental and natural resource management, solid waste management, sustainable agriculture, energy conservation, and green buildings. We are also committed to leading by example. We have adopted and implemented environmental management systems, social responsibility programmes, and

sustainability frameworks based on international best practices and benchmarks, such as ISO 14001, ISO 26000, and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards.

The environmental legal landscape in Dubai is sophisticated. This diverse array of legal and policy tools is employed systematically throughout the emirate to enable achievement of UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021.

The legislative framework is dynamic, with more instruments are forthcoming to address climate change and other global challenges.

As our city prepares to host an incredibly sustainable world event, Dubai Expo 2020, we are developing the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, to provide Dubai with a tool to guide urban decision-making and development until 2040. One of our main focuses is to understand how the city has evolved and the influence of national and international affairs on its urban form, infrastructure, environment and social development.

Plan 2040 will be built on the vision and objectives promoted by Dubai Plan 2021, which focuses on people’s living experiences and environmental, economic and social interactions. The plan aims to create a balance between the municipal requirements and the economic, social and environmental aspirations of the city and its people.

The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan will be people-centric, with the happiness of people as the top priority, ensuring a

DUBAI AIR QUALITY STRATEGY

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

CHAPTER 2

sustainable, smart and resilient business-friendly environment that promotes wellness, choice and just governance. All of the emirate’s developments are subject to stringent environmental requirements, defined by a comprehensive array of relevant legislation and practices.

Environmental Impact Assessment guidelines aim to minimise or avoid the possible impacts of development activities in our growing economy by providing decision-makers with a powerful planning tool to support environmentally conscious decisions.

Dubai has initiated many policies and initiatives to tackle climate change within the past few years.

These policies and initiatives are in line with UAE federal laws and support sustainable development.

Some examples include strategies such as the Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, Air Quality Strategy, Clean Energy Strategy, Carbon Abatement Strategy, and Groundwater Conservation Policy; Plans such as Urban Masterplan 2040, Designation of Eight Protected Areas (spanning 30% of the emirate’s land), Coastal Zone Management, Green Building Codes and projects such as Deep Tunnel Storm Water systems, and Waste to Energy plants.

Dubai is also using artificial intelligence to help build and run the “City of the Future” through the integration of nano-technologies

(DM-SAT1 ) into services, sectors and infrastructure.

The Green Building Regulations and the new ranking system are widely considered to be one of the most important legal tools adopted by the Dubai Government to protect Dubai’s environment, cultural heritage and natural resources, in addition to people’s health and welfare. The Green Building Regulations and specifications encourage all developers to transition toward a greener tomorrow, safeguarding the emirate for future generations and at the same time, mitigating any negative impacts on occupants’ health. The Green Building Regulations and specifications are enforced on all new constructions within the emirate. The regulation addresses green building design, including ecology and planning, building vitality and resource efficiency in terms of water, electricity, materials and waste.

Waste management is one of the biggest challenges encountered by fast-growing economies. The strategic vision of Dubai Municipality is to advance excellence through sustainable practices to achieve the ultimate goal of zero waste to landfill.

In response to this challenge, Dubai Municipality has launched several key initiatives, including the ambitious Waste Management Master Plan 2030. By the second quarter of 2020, Dubai plans to own

the largest plant in the world to convert waste-to-energy. The project reflects Dubai Municipality’s vision of making Dubai the most sustainable and smart city by 2021, and this in turn supports the UAE National Agenda’s objectives of 75% waste diversion from landfills by 2021.

About HE DAWOUD ABDULRAHMAN AL HAJRI His Excellency Dawoud AbdulRahman Al Hajri is the Director General of Dubai Municipality. HE Al Hajri holds a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning and Construction Technology from Eastern Washington University, USA. He is also a graduate of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Leadership Development Programme and was awarded the “Creative Leader Award” in the Dubai Government Excellence Programme in 2015.

79

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS RELATED TO THE ENVIRONMENT

UAE Timeline 1979

RATIFICATION ACCEPTANCE ACCESSION

1. Regional Organisation for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME)

2. Protocol Concerning Regional Cooperation In Combating Pollution By Oil And Other Harmful Substances In Cases Of Emergency

1990

3. The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal 4. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) 5. Protocol Concerning Marine Pollution resulting from Exploration of the Continental Shelf 6. Protocol for the Protection of the Marine Environment against Pollution from Land-based Source

1995

7. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

1996

8. WTO Convention on the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)

9. Agreement on Agriculture

1998

10. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

1999

11. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

2016

28. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)

29. Paris Agreement on Climate Change

2015

26. Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem services

27. Minamata Convention on Mercury

2014

24. Nagoya-Kuala Lumpur Supplementary Protocol on Liability and Redress to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety 23. Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

25. Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilisation to the Convention on Biological Diversity

2007

22. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance

2005

21. International Plant Protection Convention

20. Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (4 different amendments)

19. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) 16. Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

2001

12. Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage

2002

13. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants

2004

18. Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer

17. Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer

2003

15. Convention on Conservation of Wildlife and its Natural Habitats in the GCC

14. Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade

81

HIS EXCELLENCY AHMAD BUTI AL MUHAIRBI SECRETARY GENERAL, DUBAI SUPREME COUNCIL OF ENERGY

D

ubai was one of the fastest-growing cities in the world when it fortified its position as a regional hub for tourism, logistics and services. In 2012, the Dubai Government implemented an innovative strategy to manage demand, diversify fuel sources, secure its energy supply, and foster green growth. It set strategic goals to fuel Dubai’s economic growth and maintain its prominent regional and globa position.

The economic success story of Dubai demonstrates how the leadership has managed to design and implement an energy strategy that captures the key levers driving the vision of an emirate with a lowcarbon economy. Dubai is a living model of a coherent and cohesive energy policy that meets future energy needs through an optimal energy mix that delivers affordable, sustainable and clean energy to its citizens and residents.

Through a market-based approach, Dubai proved the success of the public private partnership (PPP) model in meeting the fast-growing demand for infrastructure development, leveraging funding and sharing the risk between the government and private investors. By fostering partnerships with leading international

firms in clean energy, Dubai managed to expand its local capacities through the transfer of knowledge and skills.

This sent positive signals to cleanenergy investors as the market became economically attractive for renewable technologies and mega power projects.

Dubai’s robust regulatory framework provided investors with three key elements for long-term investment: transparency, longevity, and certainty.

At the federal level, the efforts of the UAE to spearhead clean energy development in the region created momentum for energy diversification and green jobs. The progressive vision of the leadership paved the way for the development of long-term strategies that deliver a steady progress in achieving sustainability goals.

The Dubai energy model is providinga benchmark for the transition to a clean energy future in a region historically known for its reliance on hydrocarbon resources.

The transformation is evident as investors, developers and technology providers flock to Dubai to be part of this revolutionary shift towards green growth in the region.

The Dubai government is delivering on its commitment to sustainable energy and has established a strong foundation for the emirate to become the business capital of green economy.

CHAPTER

3

WE ARE A

BUSINESS CAPITAL

ACHIEVING GLOBAL RECOGNITION IN THE

BUSINESS OF SUSTAINABILITY

By DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY (DEWA)

THROUGH ADVANCED INFRASTRUCTURE, NOVEL SUSTAINABLE PROJECT DEVELOPMENTS AND THE ADOPTION OF SMART TECHNOLOGIES, DEWA HAS REACHED NEW HEIGHTS IN STIMULATING A SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC LANDSCAPE.

D

ubai has become a global hub for trade, finance and tourism, and now, a green economy, due to the foresight and wisdom of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who launched the Dubai Plan 2021 for Dubai to become a smart and sustainable city. Today, Dubai is home to advanced infrastructure, which plays an important role in the overall and sustainable development process of any city or nation. It encourages foreign investment, and makes citizens, residents, and visitors happier. The UAE’s advanced infrastructure has helped raise the nation’s profile as a leading global destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), the preferred destination for living, working and entrepreneurship, and a global economic centre.

This is something that has been recognised around the world. The UAE, represented by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), ranked first for the second consecutive year for Getting Electricity, as per the World Bank’s Doing Business 2019 report. DEWA now ranks as one of the best utilities in the world.

DEWA achieved the lowest customer minutes lost per year (CML) in the world, with 2.39 minutes CML, compared to 15 minutes in Europe, and reduced losses from electricity transmission and distribution networks to 3.3% compared to 6-7% in the USA and Europe. Water network losses were also reduced to 6.5%, compared to 15% in North America.

DEWA owns world-class infrastructure, with installed capacity of 11,400 megawatts (MW) of electricity and 470 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) of desalinated water. DEWA is continuously developing its assets, which are worth over AED 144 billion, with investments of AED 86 billion planned over the next five years to meet the growing demand for electricity and water in Dubai. DEWA is working to achieve the goal of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, to transform Dubai into a global hub for clean energy and green economy by diversifying the energy mix to include 7% of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy by 2020, 25% by 2030, and 75% by 2050. The strategy includes five main pillars: infrastructure, legislation, funding, building capacities and skills, and an environment-friendly energy mix.

A key pillar of this strategy is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This is the largest single-site solar park in the world, and is based on the independent power producer (IPP) model. It will generate 5,000MW by 2030. Since the solar park was launched, its projects have attracted

DEWA’s Shams Dubai initiative supports Smart Dubai’s goal to make Dubai the smartest and happiest city in the world. The initiative encourages customers in the emirate to produce their energy needs using solar photovoltaic panels installed at their premises and connecting them to DEWA’s grid. The initiative achieved great success, with about 1,350 solar photovoltaic systems installed and connected to DEWA’s grid, with a total capacity of more than 117 MW. DEWA expects the number to double in the future, and reach all buildings in the emirate by 2030.

DEWA’s second smart initiative, the Smart Applications via Smart Grid and Meters, aims to install smart meters to build smart grids, which is a key component of DEWA’s strategy to develop advanced infrastructure to support Smart Dubai. The Smart Grid includes programmes with investments of up to AED 7 billion, which will be completed in the short, medium, and long-term until 2035.

DEWA’s third initiative, the EV Green Charger initiative, supports sustainable transportation and green mobility in the emirate by providing

the first public EV charging infrastructure in the region. DEWA has installed 200 EV Green Chargers across the emirate of Dubai to promote the use of environmentally friendly EVs. Free charging is available for EV Green Charger card holders until the 31st of December, 2019.

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the interest of international developers, which reflects the trust and interest from investors in large projects adopted by the Dubai Government. DEWA has attracted major investments to the UAE from the private sector and foreign banks.

Currently, DEWA has over 4,000 MW of IPP projects in the pipeline, in partnership with the private sector.

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DEWA is continuously developing its assets, which are worth over AED 144 billion, with investments of AED 86 billion planned over the next five years to meet the growing demand for electricity and water in Dubai.

Dubai’s infrastructure is now being digitalised, thanks to DEWA’s digital arm, Digital DEWA. DEWA will become the world’s first digital utility, using autonomous systems for renewable energy and storage while expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital services.

DEWA’s initiative within Dubai 10X has four pillars to deliver a new utility experience for Dubai and the world.

The first pillar is launching advanced solar power technologies in Dubai; the second is deploying a renewable energy grid with innovative energy storage technologies that use advanced machine learning, followed by expanding its use of integrated AI solutions to make Dubai the first city to provide AI-based electricity and water services. The fourth pillar is using connected technologies to provide round-the-clock world-class servicedelivery for Dubai. DEWA will also launch a futuristic digital platform, a data hub called MORO, to improve the UAE’s digital capabilities and contribute to developing smart cities and providing state-of-the-art, innovative, digital solutions for generations to come.

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BEYOND THE PITCH:

AN ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMME FOR UAE YOUTH By ROBYN BRAZZIL DIRECTOR, STARTAD STARTAD IS AN ABU DHABI-BASED GLOBAL ACCELERATOR, STEERING SEED STAGE TECHNOLOGY START-UPS TO LAUNCH, DEVELOP AND SCALE THEIR VENTURES, THROUGH PROGRAMMES TAILORED TOWARD SPECIFIC MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. BEYOND THE PITCH IS A PROGRAMME THAT PROVIDES THE NECESSARY TRAINING AND MENTORSHIP TO SUPPORT YOUTH IN THE UAE TO INNOVATE THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP.

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAMME We see a lot of students who have amazing tech-enabled projects winning hackathons, innovation challenges and producing amazing research work.

However, once they win this recognition, there is no follow-on support. These high-potential ideas remain unaddressed due to a lack of customised mentoring and training. This is where Beyond the Pitch comes in, as a programme that is specifically tailored to fill this gap. Beyond the Pitch immerses students with existing ideas into the exciting world of innovation and entrepreneurship where they learn and apply business literacy heuristics to their ideas. They work alongside several other teams, industry leaders, inspiring entrepreneurs who have trodden this path before, start-up coaches and mentors, and members of the ecosystem, while gaining immense insight. This experiential learning process helps them collaborate in teams, work with specific timelines and make tough decisions. They gain an understanding of how to pivot their ideas during their entrepreneurship journey and turn an apparent failure circumstance into an opportunity. The feedback from the network helps them validate their business ideas and make them industry ready.

Beyond the Pitch is a manifestation of startAD’s mission to support UAE’s 2021 vision of “nurturing and supporting a new class of entrepreneurs” among citizens and residents of the UAE.

WHAT WAS DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? This year, the main focus area for the programme was sustainability, and we enhanced the programme in a few areas to create more impact. BTP 2019 was supported by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, a leading government entity spearheading domestic efforts in preserving the environment, biodiversity and natural capital, and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), a treaty-based, international organisation that promotes green growth and advocates a balance of economic growth and environmental sustainability. The sub-themes for BTP 2019 were Circular Economy, Climate Action, Green Cities and Sustainable Food and Agriculture.

Within these narrower themes, we received applications from teams that had already been working on relevant research or coursework, and have a passion and existing knowledge base in these important areas.

We also expanded the content and duration of the programme from six weeks in 2018 to nine weeks.

The selection process was also more competitive, in that only 12-15 projects were offered a place in the programme, as opposed to 15-20 start-ups accepted in the 2018 intake.

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WHY SUSTAINABILITY AS A FOCUS AREA?

Successful applicants receive support in three key areas:

TRAINING: Hands-on workshops and training on basic entrepreneurial skills, such as design thinking, product-solution fit, market sizing and customer acquisition, and storytelling.

MENTORSHIP: Each team is matched with a unique mentor and receives continuous and personalised mentorship and feedback support throughout the programme. The mentor pool includes experienced mentors from the startAD team, technical experts from the GGGI and mentors from our educational and ecosystem partners.

GROWTH: Teams receive the tools to develop a scalable and repeatable process to develop a business model validated through customer development and experimentation.

The programme is designed to help current students and recent graduates elevate their projects into real-world solutions through customised and dedicated training. The 2019 cohort engaged 40 student entrepreneurs from 12 top universities in the UAE, including UAEU, Bits Pilani Dubai and New York University Abu Dhabi. The programme also engaged 17 industry-specific experts providing tailor-made mentorship support to the teams throughout the nine weeks. The highlight of the programme was one of the participants, Cycled Technologies, a start-up that focuses on sustainable recycling, reaching an agreement with Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) to pilot its technology in a live environment.

WHAT IS THE VALUE BEYOND THE PITCH ADDS IN TERMS OF SUPPORTING THE UAE’S PUSH TOWARD A MORE DIVERSIFIED ECONOMY? Through the necessary tools and methodologies, the Beyond the Pitch programme engages UAE youth in entrepreneurship and innovation.

The programme immerses participants in the UAE business scene through firsthand customer discovery and development exercises, where they align their solution with the customer pain, validate their business model and discover future market opportunities. By doing so, the programme actively encourages participants to take advantage of the favourable entrepreneurial environment in the UAE and consider entrepreneurship as a viable career path and a great means to give back to the UAE community, in terms of creating jobs, generating revenue and contributing to the competitive landscape.

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WHAT TYPE OF SUPPORT DO SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS RECEIVE, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO SEE THEM ACHIEVE WITH THEIR START-UP PROJECTS DOWN THE ROAD?

The global challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability require local solutions.

Addressing these challenges by supporting start-ups is an efficient and effective way of innovating, creating green jobs and applying technology in our everyday lives. Academia, the private sector and the government must come together for climate response, as governments alone cannot shoulder the burden.

WHO SHOULD APPLY TO THE BEYOND THE PITCH PROGRAMME? The Beyond the Pitch programme is open to all UAE youth between the ages of 18-25 with a technologyenabled idea. The more advanced stage an idea/a project is, the better. Teams are encouraged to apply over individuals and can submit projects they have previously worked on for a hackathon, pitch/business plan competition, coursework or research as part of the application.

ABOUT ROBYN BRAZZIL Robyn Brazzil is an integral part of the core team that designed and executed the startAD programme at NYU Abu Dhabi from its inception. She currently leads startAD’s growth initiatives and corporate partnerships, while continuing to mentor start-ups and create new programmes to build entrepreneurial capacity in the UAE. She also leads the startAD Seed Fund, which is an investment fund for early stage start-ups.

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THE RISE OF

GREEN AND RESPONSIBLE INVESTMENT By IBRAHIM AL-ZU’BI CHIEF SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER, MAJID AL FUTTAIM IBRAHIM AL-ZU’BI AFFIRMS THE TRANFORMATIVE CAPACITY GREEN BONDS OCCUPY IN FUNDING CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION PROJECTS AND INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS.

Since governments lack the resources to exclusively cover these needs, financial markets need to act and shift towards low-carbon and climatefriendly financing. One way to measure this shift is seen in the rise of green bonds. These bonds are defined by the OECD as an instrument that is used to finance green projects that deliver environmental benefits. The bonds have gained considerable prominence in recent years as one way to finance the transition to a low-carbon economy. They came to market in 2007, when the European Investment Bank issued its first green bond, a EUR 600 million equity index-linked security. This bond was used to fund renewable energy and efficiency energy projects. When the World Bank issued its first bond a year later, it was a huge boost towards the rise of green bonds. By 2017, issued green bonds valued more than US $155 billion.

Looking forward, by 2035, the green-bond market is estimated to grow to US$ 4.7-5.6 trillion in outstanding bonds, with annual issuance reaching a healthy US$ 620720 billion. These estimates are based on two main factors: the first is the inclusion of energy, energy efficiency and low-emission vehicles, and the second is growth in the four largest bond markets (China, the European Union, the United States and Japan). If we consider other factors, such as including climate adaptation and scaling up the bond market to include other economies, the future of green bonds will be even more prosperous.

Such bonds contribute to green investment in several ways. Firstly, they provide additional and long-term green financing. They also enhance the issuers’ reputation and offer potential cost advantages. Furthermore, they facilitate the “greening” of traditionally brown sectors, as well as making new green financial products available to responsible and long-term investors.

Three key trends shape the future of green bonds. First, new types of issuers will enter the market. In addition to corporations, transportation agencies, utilities and airports that have already issued green bonds, sovereign greenbond markets have also emerged. Second, issuers are increasingly using green bonds as part of their regular financing mechanisms; many are issuing their second and third transactions, which indicates an increase in the maturity of the market. Third, the success of green bonds is driving acceptance of the fixed-income market as the natural home for environmental, social and governance investing.

There will also be innovations in this space. One example is Majid Al Futtaim’s green bond, which was designed and launched as the world’s first green sukuk on Nasdaq Dubai. Valued at US$ 600 million and with a tenor of 10 years, the Green Sukuk is testament to Majid Al Futtaim’s long-term commitment to support the transition to a low-carbon economy. The investment is being used to finance and refinance Majid Al Futtaim’s existing and future green projects, including green buildings, renewable energy, sustainable water management, and energy efficiency.

Despite the potential and anticipated benefits, there are challenges the green bonds market faces, including lack of awareness on the importance of green bonds, lack of international and local guidelines, the costs of meeting green bond requirements, the lack of green bond ratings, indices and listings, and the lack of supply of labelled green bonds.

To address some of these barriers, leading governments are now working on developing a green-bond friendly policy environment and regulatory frameworks. There is also the need for structured market building, identifying

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project pipelines and developing green guidelines and standards. This includes both demand-side measures, giving public institutions mandates for green bond investment, and supply-side measures, reducing the cost of green bonds issuance and reporting.

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he impact of climate change on our societies has been growing at an alarming rate, resulting in a need to transition nations towards green and low-carbon economies. To address the current environmental challenges, researchers estimate a funding gap of around US$ 200 billion to US $1,000 billion annually. Much of the investment is needed to cover infrastructure needs. In 2015, it was estimated that an annual gap of US$ 1 trillion is needed to build regular infrastructure projects. Back then, only 7-13% of infrastructure projects were low carbon and climate-change resilient (LCR) .

About IBRAHIM AL-ZU’BI Ibrahim Al-Zu’bi is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Majid Al Futtaim Holding. In his current role, Ibrahim oversees the group-wide sustainability strategy of Majid Al Futtaim and he is in charge of raising the company’s sustainability profile in the Middle East and globally. One of Ibrahim’s top priorities is to develop and drive a ‘Net positive’ sustainability strategy across the company’s different business units.

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ON A MISSION TO

CRYSTALLISE INNOVATION By SAEED MEASAM AL FALASI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF FUTURE DESIGN AND ACCELERATION, DUBAI FUTURE FOUNDATION (DFF) DUBAI FUTURE FOUNDATION INVITES GLOBAL START-UPS TO SURMOUNT FUTURE CHALLENGES.

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hether you are a first-timer, a frequent visitor, or a resident of Dubai – the unique cosmopolitan that has unprecedently connected east and west – one glimpse through Dubai Frame furnishes and affirms a key realisation: this city isn’t a mere reflection of its unique skyline and sci-fi cityscape, but a gate to endless possibilities for the future of humanity.

With the aim of redefining the public and private sectors’ collaboration in shaping the future, and with an insatiable hunger for making the impossible possible, Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) was launched in 2016 with one conviction; in this fast-changing world of technology, years are mere seconds. With that in mind, the goal has been set: to create a global hub right at the heart of Dubai, from which humanity advances and the future is lived now.

LEADING THROUGH DISRUPTION The UAE leadership has always been aware that to crystalise new ideas and innovations to benefit the private and public sectors, attracting entrepreneurs, start-ups, and innovators from around the globe is key.

A crucial step is to transform innovative ideas into reality, and Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) rapidly moved towards creating unique, efficient platforms that recognise global

potential and nurture local capabilities, creativity and ingenuity.

In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, DFF launched a multitude of initiatives and programmes that position the emirate as a leading city of the future.

DFF understood that disrupting the norm was the way to get there, and out-of-the-box strategic planning to build the future has been embedded in the DNA of every initiative, programme, or campaign launched by DFF. AREA 2071: LEANING ON ACCELERATORS AND BUSINESS PROGRAMMES AREA 2071, launched in 2017, is a unique interactive platform that gathers creative minds and offers local, regional and global start-ups and emerging companies an innovative

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working space, affording them the opportunity to develop products and pilot projects, ultimately creating an impact on a global scale. In line with the UAE’s Centennial 2071, AREA 2071 aims to encourage collaboration to develop creative solutions and implement ideas to serve humanity, also furnishing more opportunities to communicate with the rest of the world. The result will see benefits from a superior-quality education, a more productive economy, a more efficient government, a more cohesive society, and a healthier environment.

practices and the adoption of innovative solutions and technologies that shape a better future.

As a gateway and a platform to design the future, AREA 2071 hosts a number of global start-up accelerator programmes, such as the TechStars Startup Accelerator and AI Venture Labs Accelerator, in cooperation with Microsoft, focusing on developing innovative projects and solutions in areas of technology, Internet of Things, construction, management and other key areas.

Following the completion of five previous editions, and with the sixth edition currently taking place, the programme has successfully witnessed an estimated 45 pilot projects, and welcomed more than 190 start-ups from more than 30 countries, with new countries continually joining the programme.

Other AREA 2071 initiatives, led by DFF, such as the Country in Residence Programme, aim to provide business, diplomatic and cultural delegations and investors exclusive access to UAE-based opportunities. The programme gives representatives from participating countries the opportunity to connect with government entities, international organisations, start-ups, business leaders, scientists and experts in the region, with the aim of knowledge transfer, sharing best

Another example of the government’s dedication to boosting entrepreneurship is DFF’s Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA); a nineweek intensive programme in which forward-thinking government entities and start-ups work together to solve specific industry challenges and find smart, efficient solutions through employing modern technologies.

REGLAB: REGULATION THAT HARNESSES INNOVATION Launched in 2019, RegLab – “Regulation Lab” – is seen as one-of-akind lab, dedicated to providing an environment that accelerates the adoption of new technologies and encourages testing of new solutions, with the sole purpose of positioning the city of Dubai as a testbed for these technologies. The lab also looks into introducing new regulations, as well as develop ing existing ones to regulate the work of advanced technology and its applications.

The UAE leaders have been firm believers that the strongest ideas emerge from the start-up scene. Agile start-ups are recognised today as valid contenders against industry giants. Turning homes into hotels, drivers into paid couriers, and electricity into a viable fuel for new automobiles is proof that challenging the accepted norms with new concepts is the guiding light to transforming entire industries.

Harnessing that for the development of the UAE, DFF is keen to disrupt the status quo and break the rigid structures that may have previously inhibited development and hindered advancement.

ABOUT SAEED MEASAM AL FALASI Saeed Measam Al Falasi is the Executive Director of Future Design and Acceleration at the Dubai Future Foundation. He has over 15 years’ experience in retail sector development, events, information technology, and project management. He has previously held senior management positions in the private sector, including Executive Director of Retail and Strategic Alliances at Dubai Festival and Retail Establishment and Vice President (Business Development) at BinHendi Enterprises.

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DUBAI SOUTH:

BUSINESS, ENERGY, AND THE TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE

By ISMAIL AL MARZOUQI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, SOUTH ENERGY

By SHOAIB AL RAHIMI VICE PRESIDENT, DUBAI SOUTH BUSINESS PARK

SHOAIB AL RAHIMI, VICE PRESIDENT OF DUBAI SOUTH BUSINESS PARK, AND ISMAIL AL MARZOUQI, CEO OF SOUTH ENERGY, DISCUSS HOW BUSINESS AND SUSTAINABILITY ARE INEXTRICABLY LINKED IN THE TRANSITION TOWARDS A GREEN ECONOMY.

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HAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE THE DUBAI SOUTH BUSINESS PARK’S FOCUS, COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE AND UNIQUE VALUE PROPOSITION? Shoaib Al Rahimi (SAR): We are developing the second airport and an entire city around its premises, with the project being a masterplan development spanning 145 square kilometres. Within every city in the world, we see that if the government or municipality builds an airport, infrastructure naturally develops around it. Time and the availability of land now provide us the leverage to create a superb airport city.

We have been granted the advantage of Dubai’s geographical location, which serves as a distribution hub for this region. In 1979, when the Jebel Ali airport was established, it was a great success in supporting the movement of goods, especially in terms of sea transportation. However, perishable or high value goods still need to be taken all the way to the cargo village in Dubai Airport to be cleared and stocked until the next flight. You are talking about time, traffic, people, money involved,

and of course, a sizable carbon footprint. Our solution is to place a cargo-focused airport here, which would link the airport to the seaport through a bridge above the two highways, called the logistics corridor.

The current transaction takes six hours; we are aiming to bring down that time span to approximately four hours.

Aviation is an area of focus for our organisation in terms of general aviation, logistics, and commercial aviation. Aviation regarding hangars, facilities, Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Operators (MROs) is nonexistent in the region. Aircrafts are required to fly for hours to conduct maintenance, leading to an increase in carbon footprints, in addition to wastage of time and efficiency of the aircrafts due to their unavailability for weeks at a time. That is a hub we are developing, and it is operational with a number of key operators. The link between the seaport, airport, and road access gives you three means of transportation that link GCC countries to each other.

HOW DOES DUBAI SOUTH ENERGY CONTRIBUTE TO DUBAI’S

TRANSITION TO A GREENER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY? Ismail AlMarzouqi (IAM): Creating a happy and sustainable work environment is part of our key vision, and this reflects in the strategic reasons and decisions behind the establishment of South Energy. South Energy was established in 2017 to serve as a key driver that promotes sustainable development in the country and region as an energy solution organisation.

We look at the triple bottom line: the society, our people, the environment including waste management and energy efficiency, and finally, the economy. South Energy works with our partners, customers, and various business units to find the most optimum solution. By implementing energy efficiency projects, reduced energy consumption will help us offer better holistic opportunities to our clients. We do not simply look at quick wins. Instead, we guide our customers to start a positive chain reaction that will ensure no wastage of energy.

HOW IS DUBAI SOUTH ADAPTING

We are not only looking at advancements in technology, but also advancements in standards and design practices, to analyse how to utilise these technologies to make our systems function better. In our recent infrastructure energy retrofit projects, we have standardised, redesigned, and redefined all our street lighting requirements, and have selected technologies that offer the best performance. Through this retrofitting project, we will be saving 67% of the street lighting energy cost, with savings of AED 2.2 million annually, which will allow us to invest these funds into other prospects. To ensure proper waste management, the discarded lamps will not be sent to landfill and will instead be recycled as applicable.

Artificial intelligence plays a role in the way we manage our plants and building. We have installed a chiller plant manager to determine the optimum selection of equipment to reach optimum plant efficiency. We have integrated all our buildings through a smart command and control system and have deployed algorithm analytics for optimum real time energy and asset management.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE DUBAI’S BUSINESS SCENE? SAR: Even if there is an economic slowdown, this would not harm the logistics and aviation industries in Dubai, as it has always been a central pillar in the country. For this very

IAM: Dubai has a strategy, looking towards 2030 and 2050. We are ahead on the roadmap of the 2050 UAE energy strategy, which aims to increase the contribution of clean energy in the total energy mix. If you observe the market, there is a snowball effect, and everyone is moving towards renewables in various ways. The government is encouraging sustainability, and it is evident through programmes such as SHAMS Dubai, Etihad ESCO, and the Emirati National Housing Programme. We offer international and local players personalised solutions when considering investments.

HOW DOES DUBAI SOUTH BUSINESS PARK CATER TO THE NEEDS OF BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS? SAR: Whether if it is an international or local player, while considering investments, we offer them personalised solutions. If it is a local investor, they would know what the state of the environment is and their focus is narrowed down to a specific city. With international customers, they know they would like to be in the region, but come to us for guidance on whether they should be in the UAE, and if so, which city to base their operations in. Our role is to bridge the gap between the type of investment, the industry they are looking to operate in, and the kind of facilities they require. We evaluate whether they need a warehouse, a facility, or an office operations system. We do not only sell them the product; we look at its sustainability.

This is what helped us achieve an approximate 88% customer retention rate over the past decade.

WHAT IS THE KEY ADVICE YOU OFFER TO CLIENTS IN REGARD TO SUCCEEDING IN THE CURRENT BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT? SAR: We always recommend our customers to focus on their business. Typically, every company will have their own logistics departments, but in the past 10 years, an increasing number of logistics solutions have been outsourced to third party service providers. We advise all of our customers engage with third-party providers so they only pay for

warehouse space, and can focus on developing their business further, leaving warehousing and trucking to experts in the field.

Together, we all grow because third-party providers then come back and ask us for more warehouse space. We also counsel our customers to temporarily merge with similar-sized operations, as it reduces their costs as they may operate together from a shared business centre or small warehouse. The option to upgrade or downsize the facility is always there.

IAM: Distributive energy is the future. People believe in district energy, and we see its potential maximised when distributed. Rather than having one large plant serving 60,000 tonnes in the summer, we build smaller plants that are interconnected to reduce our carbon emissions significantly. Plants are designed for maximum peak capacity, which is reached within three months. This strategy allows us to reduce energy production during the off-peak season.

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IAM: South Energy engages in district cooling, which reduces energy consumption by around 50% to 60%. We are also pursuing solar initiatives capable of addressing 40% to 100% of our electricity needs for our headquarters and 100% of common areas for four freight complexes landlord area. We currently have solar projects worth 50 Megawatts in the pipeline. The third aspect is holistic energy retrofitting, covering all of our buildings, infrastructure and chiller plants. Energy saving retrofits implemented so far for our buildings and chiller plants include smart efficient lighting, envelope upgrades, advanced control and optimisation and installation of water-saving devices.

reason, we should constantly come up with solutions that reduce costs and time, and increase productivity, as there is always an opportunity for growth.

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EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES TO INCREASE EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY? IN MARCH 2019, THE ENERGY ARM OF DUBAI SOUTH SIGNED THE FIRST SOLAR PROJECT AGREEMENT. ARE THERE MORE SUCH AGREEMENTS IN THE PIPELINE?

ABOUT ISMAIL AL MARZOOQI Ismail Al Marzouqi is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of South Energy. In this role, he leads the development and execution of the organisation’s long-term strategies, with the goal of increasing shareholder value. Mr Al Marzouqi currently serves as the Managing Director and Board Member of DuserveFM and as Vice President – Asset Services and Energy Management at Dubai World Central.

ABOUT SHOAIB AL RAHIMI Shoaib Al Rahimi is Vice President of the Business Park at Dubai South, home to Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo 2020. Mr Al Rahimi is responsible for the strategic direction and overall performance of the Business Park and the Business Centre. His responsibilities include developing a vibrant business park environment of SMEs and MNCs with shared and sustainable business opportunities, in addition to providing business partners with customised business solutions to develop their businesses further.

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INNOVATE INCUBATE VENTURE UNIQUE INCUBATORS OF INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP By THE HIGHER COLLEGES OF TECHNOLOGY (HCT)

THE HCT INNCUVATION SPACES (IN THE DUBAI, RAS AL KHAIMAH AND SHARJAH CAMPUSES), INAUGURATED IN MARCH 2019, ARE HIGHTECH INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURIAL INCUBATORS SUPPORTING STUDENTS AND FACULTY IN UNDERTAKING INNOVATIVE AND ENTREPRENEURIAL VENTURES.

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he Higher Colleges of Technology are known for the constant reinvention of the education paradigm over the last 30 years, using state-of-the-art technology to inspire and nurture innovation and entrepreneurship.

The HCT InnCuVation Space is designed to facilitate the development of innovative and entrepreneurial projects launched by our faculty and students or resulting from interaction with industry. The HCT InnCuVation Space consists of six main areas of support: Programming and Computing; Design and Media; Intelligence Augmentation; Fabrication; Business and Entrepreneurship and Future Industry.

DESIGN AND MEDIA Design has been taking on a broader role over the years, and in this zone, all style of creative and technical designs are possible, from graphic design to cinematic experiences, augmented or virtual reality platforms and even engineering drawings. It also tackles media requirements, from the capture (sound and video), to editing and further production.

PROGRAMMING AND COMPUTING With smartphones becoming part of everyone’s daily life, developing mobile applications is crucial. The Programming and Computing zone is equipped with state-of-theart Apple computers and is designed to assist with the creation of applications and webpages and the use of other programming tools. It also allows students to model and run simulations, helping define the parameters of the product or service to be developed, based on investigation of the original problem.

FABRICATION In this zone, proofs of concept are fabricated and developed. It allows the use of multiple types of manufacturing techniques. The full spectrum of equipment goes from 3D scanners and multimaterial 3D printers to quick prototyping with cutting and engraving materials, allowing exploration of the first steps towards mass production.

INTELLIGENCE AUGMENTATION

BUSINESS

FUTURE INDUSTRY

This zone is used for system integration, the creation of automation systems or development of the latest robotics applications (ground or aerial). It could also be a forum for the integration of artificial intelligence applications, when data captured from sensors could affect the behaviour of an app or software.

This zome is all about transforming an idea into a product by studying the market, the competition and the business plan that will lead the entrepreneurial venture to success.

The main activities in this zone are designed to assist entrepreneurs to structure their initial ideas into solid business plans through start-up programmes, boot camps and accelerators.

The convergence between applied research and entrepreneurial ventures on one side, and the industry on the other, is fundamental and is one of the main drivers of innovation and economic impact. HCT is committed to facilitating the establishment of solid relationships between industrial partners, the applied research project launched by our faculty and students and finally, our start-ups.

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2017 NUMBER OF ENTERPRISES IN UAE

42,834

22,468 ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION AND OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES

ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT SERVICE ACTIVITIES

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE, REPAIR OF MOTOR VEHICLES & MOTORCYCLES

18,140

146,140

CONSTRUCTION

BY ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

* Data does not include public administration, defence and household activities * Number of establishments includes the active establishments only and does not include WE ARE A BUSINESS CAPITAL

the number of registered establishments by licensing entity * Data based on 2018 economic survey results for year 2017

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32,800

AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY & FISHING

2,849

4,124 INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION

1,508

12,176 TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE

6,818

2,622

EDUCATION

FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE ACTIVITIES

REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES

5,234

ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES ACTIVITIES

15,909

18,541

PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES

MANUFACTURING

HUMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK ACTIVITIES

530

ELECTRICITY, GAS & WATER SUPPLY; WASTE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

277

MINING & QUARRYING (INCLUDES CRUDE OIL & NATURAL GAS

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HIS EXCELLENCY SAMI DHAEN AL QAMZI DIRECTOR GENERAL, DUBAI ECONOMY

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s countries the world over are resetting their paths to competitiveness, growth and prosperity, Dubai remains steadfast on its own path that its leadership defined decades ago. In January this year, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reaffirmed the eight defining principles upon which Dubai was founded and has been governed over the years. The fourth principle in His Highness’ 50 Year Charter re-emphasised the three pillars that will continue to drive economic growth in the Emirate: a credible, resilient and excellent government; an active, fair and open private sector; and, public and government-owned flagship companies that compete globally and generate an income for the government, jobs for its citizens, and assets for future generations.

These drivers and the open, transparent, rules-based policy environment within which they operate have given rise to the emergence of the Enterprising Economy, a new and unique economic development model where leadership, vision, inclusiveness and courage play a decisive role in driving sustainable growth and generating prosperity.

The Enterprising Economy is an economy where, in the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed “when people hesitate due to changes in economic conditions, we sprint to change; and when they are afraid of the future, we rush to build it.”

Dubai’s Enterprising Economy is a development model driven by a visionary leadership that thinks courageously and looks to the future. It engages all stakeholders in defining clear and transparent targets through successive strategic plans that provide detailed roadmaps of where we, public and private actors, want to be next year and in the years that follow. The maps and targets are the result of continuous engagement, discussions and then agreements with all stakeholders. Importantly, the government plays a participatory, regulatory and coordinating role in the execution of the plans, taking bold actions and investing resources in launching new, innovative projects, and thereby acting as a catalyst for private sector investment.

We at Dubai Economy reiterate our pledge to His Highness to continue working to achieve his vision to enhance the quality of life in Dubai, achieve the happiness and prosperity of its citizens, and ensure a positive future for the generations to come.

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THREE FACTORS

DRIVE GROWTH

POWERING MENA FOR A

BRIGHTER TOMORROW By ACWA POWER

THE MENA REGION WILL EXPERIENCE A DRAMATIC INCREASE IN DEMAND FOR ELECTRICITY AND WATER OVER THE NEXT DECADE AS THE REGION’S LARGE NUMBER OF YOUNG PEOPLE ENTER THE WORKFORCE. ACWA POWER IS UP TO DATE WITH NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND CONTINUES ITS EFFORTS TO DELIVER ELECTRICITY AND DESALINATED WATER TO SUPPORT THE REGION’S SUSTAINABLE GROWTH.

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here is no question that with ambitious growth plans in place, the region faces the need to ensure a consistent flow of resources. The demand for energy and water is at an all-time high, and the trajectory is continuing to head upwards.

Population growth, industrialisation and urbanisation are driving an unprecedented need for reliable power and clean drinking water, while contributing to an everwidening gap between the supply and demand of these two commodities. It is now glaringly obvious, even within privileged communities, that immediate action must be taken to secure power and water supplies for the generations to come.

Collaborating with governments and public entities under private public partnerships, ACWA Power is at the heart of the energy transition and is seeking to redefine the way water and power is produced to support the accelerated growth agenda of the region. Our purpose is clear; reduce the cost of electricity and potable water, exceed global climate change limitation targets, and widen access to these two vital inputs to sustain life, through increasing the efficiency of power generation and water production and maximising renewable energy in the fuel mix.

HOW DO WE SEE THIS GROWTH PANNING OUT IN TERMS OF ENERGY AND WATER? The swing to renewable energy will be faster than any one expects and what can be reasonably forecasted from the recent increased pace of activity in certain countries in the region. In 2019, we will see a marked acceleration in the deployment of renewable energy throughout the MENA region. Not only will ambitious targets keep being announced, but we will also see more significant construction activity underway.

In the near future, we will witness some firm foundations laid on the development of a renewable energy related component in manufacturing capacity across the region. As the MENA region is reliant on desalinated water, the energy water nexus has always been understood. Thus, there has been some discussion around the development of “solar desalination”, which created a project that links a reverse osmosis

WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT? With 30% to 40% of the Middle Eastern and North African population below the age of 15, the demand for electricity and water will increase dramatically over the next decade to realise economic ambitions as more people move into the employable and economically active demographic bracket, fuelling the need for social services, industrialisation and economic expansion.

Nevertheless, there are multiple factors that will aid in accommodating the upsurge of demand. Technology is granting us the tools to deliver truly cost competitive solutions at the same time as governments are recognising the need to eliminate subsidies and utilising renewable energy at a faster pace.

This is in addition to promoting consumption efficiency by influencing consumer behaviour, as well as reducing wastage through better design. This all leads to highlighting the significance of renewable energy adoption at both the utility level and at rooftop level to accommodate the influx of demand.

The overall reduction in the cost of electricity provision via lower costs of generation, elimination of fuel subsidies, and stabilisation of cost due to the reduction of the market-priced linked fossil fuels in the energy mix will deliver significant economic value to all countries in the region, regardless of whether they are fuel exporters or importers.

WHERE ELSE WILL WE SEE GROWTH? In the quest to increase efficiency and move capital expenditure from the sovereign balance sheet, governments of the region will continue to make efforts to attract investment from the private sector to match the exponential growth in water and power. The demand can be met through maintaining a steady pipeline of projects. However, to sustain these projects, countries in the region need to capitalise on their strong renewable energy potential, wellestablished contracts with public private partnership models, and well-

In addition to the much discussed and well-known photovoltaic and wind power technologies, we at ACWA Power are convinced that desalination efficiently integrated with renewable energy through Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and molten salt storage capacities will become a particular focus in the region in the coming years. These technologies promise the strong value proposition of environmentally sustainable and low-cost water and power supplies.

In the case of CSP with molten salt storage, the combination affords an intermediary storage solution to eliminate the intermittency issue of PV and wind generated electricity.

CSP is already galvanising attention in the region with its storage capabilities, which enable it to dispatch electricity to meet the fluctuating daily demand profile throughout the day and night. ACWA Power and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) are leading the development of the 950 MW Noor Energy 1 plant, which will generate 700 MW through CSP and 250 MW PV and is considered the largest single-site concentrated solar power plant in the world; it is also the fourth phase of the Mohamed bin Rashid Solar Park.

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desalination plant with solar energy to produce part of the electricity being generated by the plant. This concept will carry forward over the next few years and meaningful integration of renewable energy with desalination processes will commence through the deployment of pilot projects.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a good example. Beyond diversifying the economy from reliance on hydrocarbons and increasing levels of private sector participation in the electricity and water sectors, it incorporates specific ambition on the establishment of a renewable energy sector that will account for 9.5 GW and an addition of over three million cubic metres per day of desalinated water production capacity.

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

...we at ACWA Power are convinced that desalination efficiently integrated with renewable energy through Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and molten salt storage capacities will become a particular focus in the region in the coming years.

structured procurement policies and processes, which have already delivered lower tariff levels to set new global benchmarks.

As advances in technology continue to emerge, methods of construction and business models continue to drive down costs for renewable energy and water desalination across the board.

ACWA Power remains committed to reliably delivering electricity and desalinated water at the lowest cost, while striving to increase local content and maximising local employment for a healthier, wealthier and happier future for not only the people in the communities and countries we serve, but also for the future generations.

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INVESTING IN

SHARED PROSPERITY

By HE FAHAD AL GERGAWI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, DUBAI INVESTMENT DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (DUBAI FDI)

THE UAE’S EFFORTS TOWARDS BECOMING THE GREEN ECONOMY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD CONTINUE TO ATTRACT FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT, WHICH IN TURN HELPS THE COUNTRY ACHIEVE ITS STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES.

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he Green Economy for Sustainable Development vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has been guided by a clear strategy that inspired Dubai’s leadership on global stage as the smart and sustainable city of the future. Dubai government’s strategic initiatives across key sectors from energy and water to transportation, building and waste management have resulted in remarkable progress towards this vision.

Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al

Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, Dubai Plan 2021 programmes and initiatives continue to achieve remarkable results, enhancing Dubai’s position as a preferred global foreign direct investment (FDI) destination, ranking among the top three in the world. A clear sign of confidence from

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

We look forward to forge strategic partnerships to respond to multiple mega trends shaping new economic realities, from shifting demographics, climate change and increasing digitalisation to new business models and how the enabling technologies of Industry 4.0, from blockchain and artificial intelligence and robotics will help facilitate and accelerate investments into our global shared prosperity.

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In 2019, Hamdan Centre for the Future of Investment (HCFI) and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agency (WAIPA) announced a new joint capacitybuilding programme for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs), to achieve the transformative vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

capacity-building programme for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs), to achieve the transformative vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The programme aims to build the capacity, skills and partnerships needed to realise a US$ 15 trillion Impact FDI opportunity by 2030.

HCFI initiatives aim to global investors to further progress shared prosperity through Impact FDI project, especially in least developed countries, to deliver economic benefits along with its positive impact on society and the environment.

the global investment community in the business environment and the future of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai’s success in attracting green economy investments over the past five years underlines its readiness for the Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and leading the developments of the 21st century. Dubai has ranked first in the world in foreign direct investment (FDI) into solar energy during the period 2013-2018. A remarkable global achievement thanks to our wise leadership and the efforts led by Dubai Supreme Council for Energy and the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA).

Today, Dubai aims to be a global hub for clean energy and green economy with the lowest carbon footprint in the world. Cleantech plays an important role in Dubai’s transformation into a low- carbon economy and is widely adopted across industries and business sectors, as Dubai takes a leading position as a global hub for green economy. Dubai also continues to attract capital, technology and talent in supporting the transformation into a smart and sustainable city like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, ranking first in FDI technology transfer and third in capital flows globally in 2018 and achieving a remarkable level of 50% high-tech component in all FDI projects on average over the past five years.

The hallmark of Dubai’s success in its green economy transition over the past five years has been the concerted efforts that created opportunities for growth, partnership and innovation with the private sector and the global investor community. Moreover, Dubai’s leadership vision is inspiring leaders and people from all over the world to develop new businesses with sustainability at its core to turn challenges and risks into promising opportunities and achieve shared prosperity worldwide.

Upon the launch of Hamdan Centre for the Future of Investment (HCFI), His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has clearly stated that transforming the Sustainable Development Goals into economic, social and environmental realities will create exceptional opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs worldwide.

In 2019, Hamdan Centre for the Future of Investment (HCFI) and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agency (WAIPA) announced a new joint

About HE FAHAD AL GERGAWI HE Fahad Al Gergawi is the Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Investment Development Agency (Dubai FDI), an agency of Dubai Economy – Government of Dubai. In his current role, he leads a team that develops, promotes and supports the foreign direct investment (FDI) environment and projects in Dubai.

HE is the President of the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA), leading the global FDI body from 2019 to 2021. HE Al Gergawi is a member of Dubai Economy’s Executive Committee; chairs the Dubai Investment Week organising committee and sits on the advisory board of MODUL University in Dubai.

HE Al Gergawi holds a Bachelor degree from the United Arab Emirates University, and is a graduate of the elite Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugural programme for Young Business Leaders.

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ROLE OF FREE ZONES IN ADVANCING

GROWTH, PROGRESS AND PROSPERITY

By DR MOHAN GURUSWAMY CHIEF KNOWLEDGE OFFICER, WORLD FREE ZONES ORGANIZATION (WORLD FZO)

By DR SAMIR HAMROUNI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, WORLD FREE ZONES ORGANIZATION (WORLD FZO) ACCORDING TO WORLD FZO, FREE ZONES NOT ONLY POSITIVELY INFLUENCE THE GLOBAL ECONOMY, BUT THEY ALSO CONTRIBUTE TO PROSPERITY AND THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIETY.

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ne of the important themes of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is ‘prosperity for all’. Given their international linkages and robust economic activity, free zones around the world are in a position to contribute to world’s prosperity and advance the UN SDGs. Free zones have played, and continue

to play, a critical role in enhancing the wellbeing of people and driving the global economy, with an estimated 30% of global trade passing through them.

As the global economy continues to evolve and grow, free zones should continue to be a key facilitator and enabler.

Recently, we at World FZO have gained conviction that free zones can go beyond economic activity and seek to deliver prosperity. The term ‘prosperity’ in all its ramifications is perhaps the ultimate goal of human wellbeing.

Prosperity goes beyond economic growth and ensures the inclusive sustainable development of a society by addressing the needs and expectations of all its key stakeholders. The World FZO – the global apex body of free zones – has the potential to not only trigger economic growth, but also add to the prosperity of every member country.

World FZO’s vision is to have free zones recognised globally as a tool for development, economic prosperity and socio-economic sustainability. World FZO believes that free zones have an inherent obligation to deliver prosperity for their people and this is best done by creating free zones that are commercially successful enterprises built on international best practice, economic sustainability and transparency.

World FZO values fairness, free markets, competition and innovation, values that are believed to be key enablers of success, job creation and economic prosperity.

In pursuance of this, at World FZO, we have embarked on a pioneering initiative to design and develop an Izdihar Index (Izdihar means prosperity in Arabic).

We are convinced prosperity can not only be achieved, but also measured in terms of social, economic and other parameters. The attempt is to rate free

Izdihar Index – Pillars and Elements:

Best in Class

Innovation

Sustainability

Knowledge Based

Entrepreneurial

Environmentally Friendly

Sale Zone

SME-Developer

Good Place to Work

Tech-Ready

Innovative

Socially Responsible

Business Excellence and Economic Contribution Business Excellence

Economic Contribution

Q. Business Excellence and Economic Contribution (BEEC) Trade processing of goods increase

Retention rate of companies

Annual revenue increase

Facilities, amenitites, infrastructure

Number of companies increase

Competitive advantage

Employment increase

Customer services

Contribution to GDP

We believe the index, as well as framework to achieve business excellence, will break new ground for the global free zone-sector and catapult the sector’s multi-faceted contribution towards a higher trajectory.

The Izdihar Index is thus an initiative for recognising and rating mature free zones around the world. It provides free zones with a roadmap to achieve maturity through the implementation of good practice, which is continually measured, reviewed and innovatively improved. The Izdihar Index is a framework that encourages free zones globally to achieve their desired outcomes and it can be used as a tool to benchmark performance and maturity against best-in-class free zones.

The Index is uniquely developed to capture current trends and challenges being faced across the world. The Index consists of three pillars and nine elements, plus a base pillar of Business Excellence and Economic Contribution (BEEC), as one complete system where all identified criteria under the nine elements complement each other and provide an integrated approach towards achieving a sustainable and mature state.

The Index is non-prescriptive, to acknowledge the fact that there are several approaches to achieving maturity. Free zones of the future – mature free zones – must achieve and sustain superior levels of performance that meet and/or exceed the expectations of all their stakeholders.

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Playing a key role in enabling inclusive growth and prosperity for the countries and regions where they are situated

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Supporting national and global progress on Agenda 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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Enabling tenants to more efficiently meet their own sustainability and SDG objectives through the provision of economy-of-scale solutions and approaches that align business value with social value and environmental stewardship.

The Izdihar Index essentially includes the above four pillars and a methodology to measure them. The base pillar is Business Excellence and Economic Contribution (BEEC) and the three core pillars built on the base foundation are: Best in Class, Innovation and Sustainability.

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Define, document, communicate, deploy, review and improve balanced results that meet and/ or exceed stakeholders needs and requirements

BEEC includes a set of descriptive and quantitative data, reflecting the business excellence and economic contribution of the free zone. The data includes:

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Create and maximise value for their stakeholders

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Lead with integrity, agility and resilience and respond rapidly to external and internal change

Characteristics (Type of zone, Size, Ownership, Key activity/ industry)

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Manage with the goal of achieving people prosperity and growth

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Create a culture where people release their full potential and engagement

Performance (Volume of trade, Annual revenue, Number of Companies, Trends)

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Nurture creativity and innovation at all levels

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Allocate resources to shape and sustain the free zone in future.

Labor (Employment, Nationalities, Disputes)

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Customer Retention Rate

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Continually playing a key role in supporting and facilitating global prosperity, creating value through enabling more efficient trade, economic growth and sustainable development

Incentives offered (Tax exemption, Repatriation, Customs duty)

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The provision of infrastructure, support and facilities to support tenants and investors in efficiently meeting their business objectives and organisational purpose

Facilities provided (Amenities offered, Telecommunication and Technology

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Infrastructure

In principle, mature free zones:

Free zones of the future will drive global prosperity and deliver value to tenants, regulators, governments and society through: •

•

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zones around the world in terms of their contribution to prosperity and thereby enhance the credibility and attractiveness of free zones as an enlightened economic idea. It will eventually lead to merit-based rating of free zones, highlighting their contribution to delivering prosperity and at the same time, encouraging each of the free zones to improve their rating.

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

Incentives offered

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The Maturity Model will apply: Documented Process/Projects/ Initiatives

Level 2

Partial Deployment

Level 3

Full Deployment

Level 4

Measured and Automated

Level 5

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Continuously Improving

Competitiveness (Unique competitive advantages).

Prior to addressing the index framework (the nine main elements under three pillars), participating free zones will be obliged to complete an online questionnaire (BEEC) that serves as prerequisite, in order to: •

Demonstrate commitment and consent to participate in the index journey of continual improvement

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Gather information about the size and location of the free zone

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Provide a holistic view on how business excellence is pursued in the free zone

The Maturity Curve

Performance

Level 1

Awareness of Process

Level 1

Repeatable Process Level 2

Defined Process

Managed Process

Level 3

Level 4

Optimised Process

Level 5

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Sense the free zone’s economic status and growth pace

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Serve as a “health check” of the free zone to measure improvement before and after participation in the index

The questionnaire serves as a foundation for the free zones of the future to launch their journey towards prosperity and the wellbeing of people until they reach the maturity state and become futuristic.

The questionnaire contains seven main factors upon which the World FZO management, along with domain experts/assessors, will initially evaluate the readiness of free zones to move towards maturity. This included assessing the free zones’ characteristics, performance, labour, retention, incentives, facilities, and competitiveness. These seven main factors are indicative as regards the business excellence and economic contribution of the free zone.

Free zones of the future that reach maturity status will demonstrate significant improvement between the initial baseline results and the results measured after achieving the status of Free Zone of the Future.

The three core pillars – Best in Class, Innovation and Sustainability – include three elements each.

The Free Zone of the Future Maturity Index Medals will be awarded for each category, based on maturity level achieved.

Certification

1x3 Level 5

Decision?

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

Continual Improvement

Free Zone of the Future

3x3

Best in Class addresses three main elements: Knowledge based

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Safe zone

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Tech- Ready

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Entrepreneurial

When three elements under any one pillar reach level five in the maturity index, the free zone will be entitled to receive a Certificate:

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SMEs Developer

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Mature as “Best in Class” free zone

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Innovative

Innovation addresses these three main elements:

Mature as “Innovative” free zone

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Mature as “Sustainable” free zone.

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Environmentally friendly

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Good place to work

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Socially responsible.

When all three pillars have been certified, then the free zone will be titled “Free Zone of the Future”. Free Zones of the Future, will be entitled to place a logo on any publicity material, highlighting achievement of highest status.

Each of the nine main elements has a definition that explains the high-level meaning of that element. Each main element is supported by five criteria to provide the high-level meaning. Each criterion is also supported by a number of guidance points that describe in detail what can typically be evidenced by mature free zones and what should be considered in the course of assessment.

It is not mandatory to address the criteria and guidance points all at once, but rather, they should be used for continual improvement and as enablers to reach the maturity state. Based on achievement of maturity level, free zones are classified as Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum in each of the elements.

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•

The three main elements addressed by Sustainability are:

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

•

Free zones of the future demonstrate deployment of all criteria/ guidance points at the maturity level on scale, and are measured by objective evidence..

After achieving the highest maturity status in all pillars and being certified as “Free Zone of the Future”, the BEEC questionnaire will be administered again on the free zone to highlight significant and substantial improvement in the results.

ABOUT DR SAMIR HAMROUNI Dr Hamrouni is CEO of the World Free Zones Organization. In this role, he leads the organisation in bringing the free zone community together and promoting their collective positive impact. In five years, he has overseen expansion of the reach of the organisation into over 120 countries. Through his flagship initiative, Free Zone of the Future, Dr Hamrouni is providing free zones with the necessary tools to be techready, innovative and sustainable organisations that contribute to the economic prosperity and social development of their host country.

ABOUT DR MOHAN GURUSWAMY Dr Guruswamy is Chief Knowledge Officer at World Free Zones Organization and a Fellow of Cambridge University. He has over two decades of experience in the areas of strategic planning and organisational development. Previously, he served as Advisor at the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi and at DP World he was responsible for strategic planning and business performance management functions for ports, free zones and customs. He is currently Director of the EMBA and MBA programmes at the University of Wollongong Dubai.

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EN ROUTE

TO GROWTH

By HE MATTAR AL TAYER DIRECTOR GENERAL AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS, ROADS AND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY (RTA) AS DUBAI HAS EMERGED AS A GLOBAL HUB, THE DUBAI GOVERNMENT CONTINUES TO INVEST HEAVILY IN THE CITY’S TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM. BUILDING ON THESE INVESTMENTS, RTA’S INITIATIVES CONTRIBUTE TO THE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH OF DUBAI, WHICH IN TURN ENHANCES THE GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS OF THE EMIRATE .

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eing the transport entity of Dubai; the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has aligned its strategic indicators and initiatives with the eight defining principles of Dubai and the 50-Year Charter announced by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and has set them as a Code of Practice.

The fourth principle defines three factors that drive growth: ‘a credible, resilient and excellent government; an active, fair and open private sector; and public and government-owned flagship companies that compete globally, and generate an income for the government, jobs for its citizens, and assets for future generations’.

The emirate’s unprecedented roads and infrastructure growth over the years is a true testament of these factors.

Compared with the majority of cities in the world, Dubai is dynamic and fastgrowing. The city caters to an influx of over 190 nationalities due to its strategic global location, which makes it a key destination for trade, commerce and tourism.

In view of the importance of investment in infrastructure as a means of fostering urban and economic development and global competiveness, the Dubai Government has accorded top priority to investment in infrastructure in general and in transportation infrastructure in particular. The total expenditures on transportation infrastructure has hit nearly AED 100 billion. This has yielded positive results highlighted by the competitiveness of Dubai at the emirate level in particular and the UAE overall. Dubai has become a global benchmark for the quality of infrastructure, as it ranked first globally in terms of road quality for four

consecutive years 2014-2017, according to the Global Competitiveness Report issued by the World Economic Forum.

Since the establishment of the RTA in 2005, the road network and mass transport systems and services have saved around AED 169 billion in fuel and time costs.

The mobility system has rapidly grown in the last three decades, from a limited road network and bus fleet to a highly mature and integrated multi-modal system that includes an advanced road network, public transport networks and services, including metro, tram, buses and marine modes in addition to taxi, limousine, e-hail, car rentals and shared vehicle services.

Dubai’s mobility system also emphasises the role of soft mobility and non-motorised modes, including cycling and walking. For example, the

city cycling track network expanded from around 10kms in 2006 to around 386kms in 2018.

The public private partnership (PPP) laws, policies and manuals have provided a stable legal and institutional framework to complement Dubai’s attractive investment framework. Along with implementing legislative and governance changes, RTA has made significant advancements in building its internal capacity and raising awareness of its agencies and sectors, executing and monitoring PPP projects, and carefully addressing risk allocation and managing the fiscal consequences of PPPs to create a private-investment friendly climate and build a trust construct. In line with government direction to diversify revenue and enhance private-sector participation in its core business area, RTA has developed a PPP strategic Plan (2016-2020), designed to streamline and clarify PPP programmes and projects to boost private investment, especially in the infrastructure and transport sectors.

RTA has set strategies to shape the future of transport, such as the Dubai Self-Driving Strategy, which aims to achieve at least 25% of all trips in Dubai through self-driving transport modes by 2030 as set by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. As research and development (R&D) are key contributors to the success of any technology-driven strategy, RTA has forged effective partnerships with renowned global entities and institutions, and entered in consortia with global universities and research centres for commissioning research in self-driving transport capable of addressing future requirements. RTA’s Self-driving Transport Strategy has several attributes that

As part of this strategy, during the Dubai World Congress for SelfDriving Transport, RTA will award winners of the Dubai World Challenge of Self-Driving Transport, which has a purse value exceeding US$ 5 million. This is a global competition that aims to broaden the use of autonomous mobility at all levels and encourage pioneering companies in this field.

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The development of a multimodal mobility system has led to significant transformation within the population’s mobility profiles and notable impacts on the city as a whole. For example, the volume of public transportation system ridership has increased from less than 163 million passengers in 2006 to 589 million passengers in 2018. Within the same period, the public transport mode share has shifted from six per cent to 17%. The development of the public transportation system and other environmental initiatives has led to reducing carbon emissions by around 50 thousand tonnes per annum. The development of Dubai’s transportation system has led to huge savings in travel time and fuel consumption. The value of the saved fuel and time in the period from 2006 to 2018 is estimated at AED 169 billion while the amount of saved fuel is estimated at 285 million litres per annum.

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

This integrated multi-modal system has played an essential role in fostering Dubai’s economic growth and its global competiveness, as well as providing people with multiple mobility choices in terms of modes, service quality and cost of travel.

set it apart from similar strategies across the globe. First, the transition to self-driving in Dubai is powered by a government entity, whereas it is the private sector that drives this transition in many other cities and countries. Secondly, Dubai’s strategy is inclusive of all mass transit modes, including trains, buses, marine transit modes and taxis, as well as private vehicles, while many countries focus on a limited number of transit modes.

By 2030, self-driving initiatives will play an instrumental role in reducing mobility costs by 44% or AED 900 million, improving road safety by 12%, curbing environmental pollution by 12%, saving AED 18 billion through improving the efficiency of the transport sector by 20%, reducing the need for parking spaces by 50% and improving productivity by 13%.

About HE MATTAR AL TAYER

The development of Dubai’s transportation system has led to huge savings in travel time and fuel consumption. The value of the saved fuel and time in the period from 2006 to 2018 is estimated at AED 169 billion while the amount of saved fuel is estimated at 285 million litres per annum.

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin, USA. He started his career in Dubai Municipality, advancing to the role of Deputy Director General. He took leadership of RTA in 2005, and RTA made significant achievements in the development of mass transit systems through mega projects, like Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram and the Dubai Water Canal. HE Al Tayer oversaw projects worth more than AED 100 billion, resulting in RTA winning more than 270 local and international awards.

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FOSSIL FUELS AND RENEWABLES IN THE 21ST CENTURY:

A COMPLEMENTARY BLEND

By HE SAIF HUMAID AL FALASI GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ENOC THE CEO OF ENOC IS CONVINCED THAT FOSSIL FUELS IN THE NEAR FUTURE WILL NOT BE REPLACED, BUT RATHER COMPLEMENTED BY RENEWABLES. THE FUTURE ENERGY MIX IS LOW CARBON.

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he oil and gas markets that have been the wind in the sails of the Middle East’s economic growth since the mid-1900s are charting a new course. A new era beckons as growing populations and obligations to the Paris Agreement mean an ‘energy basket’ will be the mainstay of the 21st century. A multifaceted energy basket, which utilises both fossil fuels and renewable energy, is a proactive approach to meeting the 54% increase in the Middle East’s energy consumption that BP Outlook anticipates up to 2040, at an affordable cost.

The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 illustrates how the future energy mix will have a lowcarbon theme:: the country’s basket will comprise 38% gas, 44% clean energy, six per cent nuclear, and 12% clean coal. Efforts to increase low-carbon and renewable energy growth are wide-ranging, with significant changes already underway. The UAE government aims to invest AED 600 billion by 2050 to meet the growing energy demand and ensure sustainable growth for the country’s economy, while strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change and build a green economy are two threads of the ‘Sustainability’ theme at Expo 2020 in Dubai. The UAE’s Barakah nuclear power project is another example of the UAE’s pioneering dedication to a low-carbon future – it will be the Middle East’s first nuclear power plant when it starts coming online later this year. But leveraging renewable energy does not translate into fossil fuels being a ‘sunset industry’, ready to fade into history books. Oil and gas will remain an integral part of the global energy mix for at least four more decades.

“It is far too early to write the obituary of oil, as growth for trucks, petrochemicals, shipping and aviation keep pushing demand higher,” said Dr Fatih Birol, the International Energy Agency’s Executive Director. The agency’s World Energy Outlook 2017 report details how oil demand will continue to grow up to 2040, although at a steadily decreasing pace. But other sectors, namely petrochemicals, trucks, aviation and shipping will drive up oil demand to 105 million barrels a day by 2040.

I FRIENDS, NOT FOES Renewables will play a complementary, rather than competitive, role to fossil fuels in the foreseeable future. But there is no doubt that energy and economic security in Dubai and beyond relies on the prosperity of both. BP Energy Outlook anticipates that oil and gas together will account for over half of the world’s energy up to 2040, with the Middle East remaining the world’s largest oil producer and the second-largest gas producer. The region will account for over 34% of global liquids production and 20% of gas production by 2040. And non-fossil fuels will account for eight per cent of the Middle East’s energy consumption in 2040, compared with one per cent today. While non-fossil fuels account for a smaller percentage in 2040, the figures still mark a steady growth rate when considering it will require new technologies, policies and a societal shift in the way energy is consumed. It would be a mistake to discount the importance of renewables.

Gulf countries’ innovative plans to merge both camps – fossil fuels and renewables – are already paying off in the field of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies. Projects centred on a win-win scenario are helping reduce emissions and streamline operational costs. The latter is especially pertinent amid today’s lower oil prices. One illustration of how the two camps blend their operations lies to the east. Once fully operational, Oman’s Miraah solar thermal plant will generate 6,000 tonnes of steam

per day via 36 glasshouses to support state-owned and Shell-led Petroleum Development Oman’s (PDO) existing thermal EOR technology at the Amal field. The US$ 600 million project came online in the last quarter of 2017 and has the potential to make an 80% saving of natural gas at the field.

Nurturing talent to drive this new blend of energy innovation in the 21st century will climb higher on energy companies’ agendas. Critical and imaginative thinkers with fluency in the digital tools of the 4th Industrial Revolution will be integral to carving out the new status quo. Mastering the rapidly growing digital tool box – from predictive analytics and big data to artificial intelligence – will be integral to energy companies’ abilities to meet rising demand, while streamlining costs and reducing emissions. Efforts to continually enhance human capital also encompass bolstering the rate of nationalisation and supporting entrepreneurs, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

MENA Research Partners (MRP) forecasts that the number of SMEs in the GCC will rise by 156% in the next five years, with the sector worth US$ 920 billion.

I WHAT STRATEGIES WILL MOST EFFECTIVELY CHANNEL THIS VAST POTENTIAL OF FINANCIAL AND HUMAN CAPITAL – A CORE PART OF DUBAI’S GROWING WORKFORCE – TOWARDS AFFORDABLY ENSURING ENERGY SECURITY? Collaboration, transparency and innovation will enable energy companies to surf the waves of positive change, rather than be submerged by them. A proactive approach is crucial.

As said by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, “Opportunities are made. They do not just lie around waiting for someone to grab them.”

EFFICIENCY ETHOS GAINS PACE Energy efficiency represents a key release valve on the burgeoning pressure to meet rising demand. Energy intensity – measured as the amount of primary energy demand needed to produce one unit of gross domestic product (GDP) – fell by 1.8 per cent in 2016. Since 2010, intensity has declined at an average rate of 2.1 per cent per year, which is a significant increase from the average rate of 1.3 per cent between 1970 and 2010.

Global investment in energy efficiency grew year-on-year in 2016 by nine percent to US$ 231 billion.

2016

12% The world would have used 12% more energy in 2016 had it not been for energy efficiency improvements since 2000. This is the equivalent of adding another European Union to the global energy market.

US$ 50bn

Efficiency improvements since 2000 avoided US$ 50 billion in additional spending on energy imports in IEA member countries in 2016. In Japan, for example, oil imports would have been 20% higher and gas imports 23% higher had those efficiency gains not occurred.

2019

A further three to five projects are being added to ENOC’s annual Energy Conservation Business Plan by 2019, with the aim of achieving at least 50% financial savings.

WATER SCARCITY: REVERSING THE NARRATIVE Water scarcity has been highlighted by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as one of the greatest global risks to economies, the environment and people. Strategies to reuse and recycle water used during operations will increasingly become a priority for energy companies.

12.7bn The planet’s oil wells will produce 12.7 billion gallons of water a day by 2020, according to Total. This equates to an average of three to five barrels of water for every barrel of oil produced.

60 A member of the ENOC Group, the Dugas Waste Water Treatment project has purified waste water so that it can be used for irrigation. This has generated water savings of more than 26 million litres per year is equivalent to reducing water demand by 60 households in Dubai.

14% MENA will have the greatest expected economic losses from climate-related water scarcity by 2050, at up to 14% of GDP.

GREEN TARGETS The UAE formally ratified the Paris Agreement in September 2016. The Agreement is the world’s most comprehensive deal to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change, and marks the biggest rise in political momentum for positive change since the Kyoto Protocol was signed in 1997. Efforts to pin down the finer details of each country’s commitments are discussed throughout the year and at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, held annually in the fourth quarter. Looking ahead, energy companies will have to frequently review their roadmaps to accommodate the increasingly strict rule book.

2°C

2016

28%

Improved energy efficiency will play a vital role in meeting the Paris Agreement’s long-term goal of keeping the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.

Progress is under way. The Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency said the level of CO2 emissions in the world’s biggest emitting nations either fell or were static in 2016, in large part due to energy efficiency.

The global population will rise to 9.7 billion from today’s 7.6 billion – a 28% climb.

Affordably meeting energy demand while hitting low-carbon targets could become harder, not easier.

Proactive efforts are vital.

2,100 A waste heat recovery project at the ENOC Refinery saved natural gas consumption equivalent to AED2.7 million a year. Flue gas temperatures were reduced from 250°C to 150°C, ensuring more efficient energy usage over the lifetime of the naphtha hydrotreatment plant. It also includes an annual reduction of CO2 emissions by 10,000 tonnes, equating to removing 2,100 cars from the roads for one year.

About HE SAIF HUMAID AL FALASI

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The bonus from improved energy intensity – producing more GDP for each unit of energy consumed – was around US$ 2.2 trillion in 2016. This is equal to twice the size of Australia’s economy.

22%

ENOC subsidiary Horizon Terminals has retrofitted more than 150 light fixtures with energy-efficient LED lighting technology and installed variable speed drives (VSD) to replace pumps’ delta start panel. Overall, the project can save US$ 280,000 annually – around 22% of the company’s typical energy bill.

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

9%

Mr. Saif Humaid Al Falasi was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of ENOC Group in March 2015. HE Al Falasi spearheads the Group’s business strategy and operational excellence locally and internationally, in alignment with the vision and plans of the Government of Dubai.

A 37-year veteran in the energy industry, HE Al Falasi’s wealth of experience and in-depth industry knowledge spans a wide range of specialties, including project management and petroleum asset evaluation operations.

He joined ENOC in 2008 as Group General Manager. In 2011, he was appointed Executive Director for Environmental, Health, Safety and Quality (EHSQ) and the Corporate Affairs Directorate. Before this, he worked with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for 25 years and was a Board member of the National Marine Services.

HE Al Falasi is Chairman of Gulf Energy Maritime and a Board member of the Supreme Council of Energy and the Green Energy Council.

HE Al Falasi holds a BSc in Petroleum Engineering from Louisiana Tech University, USA. In 2014, he was awarded Fellowship of the UK Energy Institute, in recognition of his leadership of the ENOC Energy and Resource Management Programme.

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DATA-DRIVEN

PUBLIC SECTOR GROWTH

By SARAH TALIB DIRECTOR OF EMIRATES CENTER FOR GOVERNMENT KNOWLEDGE, MOHAMMED BIN RASHID SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT (MBRSG) DUBAI’S GROWTH IS DRIVEN BY THREE FACTORS: A CREDIBLE, RESILIENT AND EXCELLENT GOVERNMENT; AN ACTIVE, FAIR AND OPEN PRIVATE SECTOR; AND PUBLIC AND GOVERNMENT-OWNED FLAGSHIP COMPANIES THAT COMPETE GLOBALLY AND GENERATE AN INCOME FOR THE GOVERNMENT, JOBS FOR CITIZENS, AND ASSETS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS. DATA AS THE FUEL Assets in the government were historically classified as tangible or intangible assets.

Tangible assets are comprised of physical and measurable assets, such as government buildings, vehicles, machinery, equipment, land and securities, such as bonds, stocks and cash. On the other hand, knowledge and intellectual assets make up the intangible assets. These are the things that do not have a close association with direct monetary value. Given the directives of the United Arab Emirates’ Centennial 2071, the country is moving towards a knowledge-based economy. In such an economy, the majority of the value will come from the intangible assets the government owns, generates, acquires and invests in.

The United Arab Emirates’ Government has put forth a plan for the country’s vision for the next five decades: the UAE Centennial 2071. The plan looks at four main pillars: education, economy, government development and community cohesion. The main goal of this plan is to make the UAE the best country in the world. For 2021, the Dubai Government has set yet another ambitious target. It plans to go completely paperless.

This promises to eliminate over one billion pieces of paper that are currently used for government transactions every year. This means more and more customer services will be provisioned over the internet and all internal processes within these government organisations will be digitised. These government aspirations have the potential to generate colossal amounts of data, but the question is: how can we generate value for these public sector entities through data? How can we leverage data as a valuable asset for future generations?

The different ways in which public sector entities in the UAE can leverage data can be categorised into three distinct value-generating categories. First, data can be used to improve current service offerings to existing segments of society. Second, data can be used to provision new services to the different segments of society served by each entity. Third, data from one entity can be shared and opened up with other public sector entities, private organisations and entrepreneurs to provision joint services.

Improve Current Offerings Every government organisation already has a lot of data on the different segments of society in which they are mandated to serve.

This data includes areas of health, driving and transportation routes, education, travel and more.

These existing data sets can be sorted, classified and analysed to gain valuable insights into how existing services can be improved through personalisation, shortening time to attain a service, simplifying service requirements and inputs, and the provisioning of these services on new platforms and using new technologies.

Opening data up for other public sector entities, private organisations and entrepreneurs to use in designing their services has the potential to create value for society as a whole.

PROVISIONING NEW SERVICES Using data insights allows public sector entities to design and provision new services. Gaining data insights sheds light on previously untapped opportunities for new services to currently served individuals, in addition to new unserved and underserved segments of society. One of the valuable opportunities data provides is the detailed profiling and understanding of the segments being served.

Government organisations can leverage this data to either identify or create new needs that can be provisioned through delivery of the various services.

OPEN DATA TO THIRD PARTIES The growth assets and potential provided by the use of data by public sector entities is not limited to the physical confines of these entities. Data can be shared between different entities so that existing joint services can be improved and new services can be provisioned. Opening data up for other public sector entities, private organisations and entrepreneurs to use in designing their services has the potential to create value for society as a whole. Services can be designed in a more empathetic manner and be more purpose-driven. The potential to generate different types of value for public sector entities in terms of customer happiness, cost saving, service efficiency, innovation and other financial and non-financial performance metrics can be realised through the use of data for decision-making and service design.

Therefore, the questions that every government entity should pose are: what are the types of data that lie within our organisation, how can we transform these data sets into value and what are the different types of values we can create for the different segments of society we are mandated to serve?

ABOUT SARAH TALIB Sarah Talib is the Director of Emirates Center for Government Knowledge at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government. The centre provides public sector entities with knowledge and management consulting solutions in the areas of corporate governance and organisational design, strategy and corporate performance, human resource management, knowledge management and innovation management through a pool of experts, based on government knowledge.

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WHEN WOMEN WORK,

ECONOMIES GROW!

By FLORENCE FONTANI EVP STRATEGY, COMMUNICATIONS AND CSR, ENGIE MIDDLE EAST, SOUTH & CENTRAL ASIA AND TURKEY (MESCAT) ENGIE logotype_solid_BLUE_RGB 14/04/2015

ENGIE PROMOTES THE EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN TO DRIVE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH AND COMMENDS THE UAE’S PROGRESS TOWARDS GENDER EQUALITY.

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esearch has consistently shown that gender balance is critical to economic growth. When more women work, economies grow and GDP rises. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, US$12 trillion could be added to global GDP by 2025 by closing the global gender gap. This research also found companies that commit to diverse leadership are overall more successful: it is estimated that companies with three or more women in their senior management score higher in all dimensions of organisational performance.

A recent study by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) says the MENA region is losing an estimated US$575 billion a year due to legal and social barriers that prevent women from accessing jobs and careers. The same study refers to the successful approach of the UAE leadership, which has rightly acknowledged the role of women in economic development by creating equal employment opportunities. This has led to great progress: women now make up 66% of public-sector workers in the UAE, with 30% in leadership roles.

RÉFÉRENCES COULEUR

There’s more: today, Emirati women make up 70% of all university graduates in the UAE and 46% of university graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM); 50% of the employees in the UAE’s Space Programme are women. The UAE is the first country in the region that requires every government organisation and every company to have female board members.

24, rue Salomon de Rothschild - 92288 Suresnes - FRANCE Tél. : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 00 / Fax : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 87 Web : www.carrenoir.com

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As a long-term corporate citizen and investor in the UAE, ENGIE supports the country’s push towards unlocking the potential of its women to drive sustainable growth. ENGIE has a long-standing corporate culture of diversity and equality and is, to date, the only company in France’s CAC40 led by a woman: Isabelle Kocher.

Isabelle is a strong advocate of both gender and cultural diversity, which

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

I feel diversity of perspectives is invaluable for the strategic business decisions we make.

ISABELLE KOCHER,

CEO of ENGIE

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About FLORENCE FONTANI she considers a factor of success. 26% of ENGIE’s Executive Committee are women – double the 13% average representation of women among senior management in the global energy industry. “I feel diversity of perspectives is invaluable for the strategic business decisions we make,” our Group CEO underlines.

Isabelle has been firm in setting specific gender targets for the Group leadership. When, in 2016, ENGIE went through a reorganisation, she made it a prerequisite that women fill 30% of the positions in the executive management teams for all ENGIE’s business units, a target that was achieved. In March this year, she announced that by 2030, she wants 50% of all managers in the Group to be women.

To ‘walk the talk’ on gender equality, clear targets and adequate programmes & tools are key.

To facilitate the career development of its female employees, ENGIE focuses on formal leadership training, personalised training programmes, mentoring, and networking opportunities both within the company and across businesses.

Through our leadership and networking programmes in the UAE, we have been able to give our female employees exposure to inspiring local female leaders, entrepreneurs and regional role models. Our Women in Networking (WIN) initiative has connected expat and regional female employees from different backgrounds to discuss, share, learn and work together on concrete subjects, including the energy transition, low-carbon strategies, and the like.

By cultivating a work environment in which women can grow and thrive, we hope ENGIE will also become more attractive to local women who want to build a career in the private-sector. Statistics indeed show that there is a sustained shortage of Emirati women in private sector roles. It is our responsibility as a local private player to reach out to young women as early as possible to raise awareness about the opportunities private players such as ENGIE can provide.

As such, we can help pave the way for local women to participate even more in the local economy, thereby contributing to increased growth for the UAE. Because when more women work, economies grow.

Florence Fontani is the Executive Vice President Strategy, Communications and Environmental & Social Responsibility for ENGIE in the Middle East, South & Central Asia & Turkey (MESCAT). Florence holds a master’s degree in Finance from Paris IX Dauphine, and started her career in the financial sector before moving to the energy sector in 1998, when she joined GDF SUEZ (today ENGIE) to take the lead in internal communications.

As a brand and marketing expert with an Advanced Studies degree in Communication & Marketing from CELSA and HEC Paris, she quickly moved to external communications, to take the lead of the ENGIE Group Business & Marketing Communications & Group Audiovisual Communications. In 2016, she took up her present role at ENGIE’s regional headquarters in Dubai.

Florence is a passionate advocate for women and sustainability issues in the global energy sector.

Since 2016, she has been a member of the board of MENA’s Clean Energy Business Council and since 2018, a member of board of the French Business Group in the UAE.

117

DRIVING SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN BUILT

ENVIRONMENTS

By SAEED AL ABBAR, MANAGING DIRECTOR, ALABBAR ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY GROUP (AESG) ; CHAIRMAN, EMIRATES GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL (EMIRATESGBC)

A LARGE PORTION OF ENERGY-RELATED CARBON EMISSIONS COMES FROM THE BUILDING SECTOR. THE EMIRATES GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL PROMOTES SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PRACTICES THROUGH ADVOCACY, EDUCATION, RESEARCH AND BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS.

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rowth, development and expansion are all part of the narrative today, and they are prevalent in a multifaceted way, whether we are talking about population growth, expansion of industries or economic development.

While these, and other similar terms, tend to have positive connotations, they can also imply a strain on resources. As global urban populations continue to grow, so too does demand for energy, water, food, and housing.

The latest statistics released in June by the Scripps Institute state that carbon emissions have increased by the second highest annual rise in the past six decades to 414.8 parts per million (ppm) in May of this year. To put this into context, if we reach the threshold of 450ppm, scientists have informed us that there will be serious climate change repercussions, including a temperature increase to 20C, which will cause catastrophic and irreversible damage to our planet.

We are therefore faced with a challenge: to implement an alternate vision for prosperity to meet the needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations in meeting their own needs. For the global building sector, this requires far-reaching change to transition to a low-carbon future.

EMIRATESGBC’S ROLE AS AN ADVOCATE FOR CHANGE With buildings responsible for an estimated 35% of global final energy use and 39% of energy-related carbon emissions, the sector has a key role to play in addressing climate change and rising energy demand. The World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) has consequently released a call to action for all new buildings to operate at net-zero-carbon by 2030 and all buildings, including the existing stock, to be net-zero-carbon in operation by 2050. This is a significant challenge for the building industry, however, it is essential for us to meet the goals of the Paris Climate Change Agreement and avoid the most catastrophic and irreversible impacts of climate change.

For over a decade, EmiratesGBC has driven a consistent agenda of promoting sustainable building practices in the UAE, with a vision for the country to be a global leader in sustainability in the built environment.

Through our leadership role, we apply our expertise to educate industry stakeholders on the transition to a sustainable built environment, leverage our partnerships to create value and accelerate change, and conduct research and analysis that enhances the adoption of sustainable building practices.

EDUCATION Education is the basis of creating positive change, as it empowers stakeholders with the knowledge and tools required to implement sustainable practices. Through our year-round calendar of networking sessions, focus days, workshops, training, publications and programmes, we are actively creating a strong foundation of knowledge and dialogue on sustainability in the urban environment in the UAE. We are now placing increased importance on advancing the agenda for net-zero-carbon buildings, as this is key to meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Change Agreement. Last year, EmiratesGBC established the Net Zero Centre of Excellence, which serves as a platform for government, academia and the private sector to learn and share knowledge on how to advance net-zero-

PARTNERSHIPS

In addition to our wide membership base, our strategic partnerships with various government entities are invaluable. We work closely with our public sector partners and support them with the implementation of

Last year, EmiratesGBC established the Net Zero Centre of Excellence, which serves as a platform for government, academia and the private sector to learn and share knowledge on how to advance net-zerocarbon buildings and continue to position the UAE as a global leader in sustainable construction.

In collaboration with the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, we issued the Building Efficiency Accelerator (BEA) Project Report, which evaluated the energy performance of hotels, schools and malls in Dubai. The first-of-its-kind report is a platform for establishing an accurate energy reporting mechanism and it encourages benchmarking across all types of buildings to optimise energy performance, thereby paving the way for energy and water efficiency.

Working with non-government entities is equally as important in advancing sustainable built environments in the UAE. We recently partnered with the International Living Future Institute (ILFI) to adapt ILFI’s Zero Energy (ZE) and Zero Carbon (ZC) Certifications for the UAE market. These certifications will support our efforts to accelerate advanced climate action by setting ambitious targets to eliminate operational carbon emissions from new building portfolios by 2030.

Over the years, EmiratesGBC has played a pivotal role in facilitating a dialogue between the public and private sector to support green building initiatives in the region, and through our strong relationships in both the public and private realms, we are committed to continuing our mission to promote sustainability of the built environment in the UAE. RESEARCH EmiratesGBC has placed a significant focus on research and data gathering that facilitates a transition to a sustainable built environment. To date, we have issued several publications and reports that shed light on the current state of sustainability in the building and construction sector. In addition to the BEA report on energy and water consumption, we carried out a first-of-its-kind Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB) study in the region and published a statistical and analytical report that defines an initial target and trajectory to near zero energy buildings in the UAE. Our advocacy for sustainability is part of our long-term vision to preserve our environment for future generations. Engaging youth in environmental awareness from an early age is key to fulfilling this

vision. The Council’s State of Our Schools report was developed in collaboration with schools, educational institutions, and other industry stakeholders to benchmark the sustainability of schools in the UAE. The report is an important step in driving the environmental performance of our schools and promoting concerted action to strengthen eco-literacy among the one million students in the UAE. Underpinning the need for promoting green schools, the White Paper also points out that green schools can help the UAE reach its educational targets for 2021, as well aiding achievment of national and municipal energy, water and waste reduction targets.

These industry-specific reports provide the evidence and data needed to implement tangible changes in the industry to support sustainable building practices. We must collaboratively invest in more research and secure reliable data to increase awareness and reach the tipping point of progressive change toward sustainability in built environments.

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EmiratesGBC is a membershipdriven organisation with a network of over 140 corporate members, which represent the leading companies in the UAE’s building sector. Through our collective efforts, we are able to make a significant, business-led effort towards a sustainable built environment. By offering regular training, workshops and other awareness and capacity-building initiatives, we are providing our members access to valuable information, expertise and resources that will support them and their ambitions in the development of long-term sustainable practices.

strategies, policies and programmes that support the UAE’s goals for sustainable development.

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

carbon buildings and continue to position the UAE as a global leader in sustainable construction. The Centre acts as a think tank and accelerator and supports the nation in implementing its sustainability goals within the UAE Vision 2021.

THE WAY FORWARD The journey towards creating a more sustainable, healthy built environment is complex and at times daunting. As, a generation tasked with this responsibility and burden, we must not shy away from this challenge. We have the knowledge, tools, resources, and most importantly, human capital, to make the changes necessary to set a course for sustainable development.

We now need to continue with our commitment and determination to achieve the goal for a sustainable, zero-carbon built environment.

ABOUT SAEED AL ABBAR Saeed Al Abbar is the Managing Director at AESG, a firm specialising in the provision of specialist consultancy and commissioning services throughout the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Mr Al Abbar is also the Chairman of the Emirates Green Building Council and serves on the Board of Directors of the World Green Building Council. In this role, he actively works in promoting the advancement of best practice and innovation in the building industry throughout the UAE and the MENA region.

119

A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UAE’S PRIVATE SECTOR TO

ACHIEVE THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS By THE FEDERAL COMPETITIVENESS AND STATISTICS AUTHORITY (FCSA) DEMYSTIFYING THE CONCEPT OF ADDED-VALUE PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS THROUGH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN ENGAGEMENT FRAMEWORK WITH THE UAE’S PRIVATE SECTOR.

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In 2015, the United Nations (UN) adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development; 17 goals that go beyond the Millennium Development Goals in encompassing the full spectrum of economic, social, ecological and political processes to create sustained and inclusive economic growth for all. With trillions of dollars required yearly to close the funding gap for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, partnerships – cross-country as well as cross-sector – have become imperative in the pursuit to address the Agenda’s challenges and advance its achievement. In fact, the 2030 Agenda acknowledges the role of the private sector in the implementation of the Agenda and calls for businesses to apply their creativity and innovation to solve sustainable development challenges.

Given the value of the private sector as a partner in driving implementation of the 2030 Agenda, the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs launched the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) during the World Data Forum in October 2018, to help uncover the challenges and opportunities facing UAE’s companies1. The idea was to not only create a partnership with the private sector on the premise that collaboration is a good thing, but also to answer an essential question: Which ways

of engaging with the private sector create the highest net value for both the government and the private sector?

The answer turned out to be simple: by creating a partnership journey that begins with building a common understanding and hence identifying the overlap in the alignment of interests between the public and the private, we can work together on building a vision of sustainable development.

The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA), secretariat of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs, has taken different steps to create an official process through which the UAE’s private sector and the government can come together and work on the advancement of specific SDGs. The process involves two main journeys: (i) The journey the partnership takes to understand, negotiate and plan the collaboration and (ii) The journey the partnership takes to converge and create maximum value for all partners.

1. CREATING A COUNCIL THROUGH WHICH GOVERNMENT AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR CAN ALIGN THEIR GOALS AND PRIORITIES: PSAC, the UAE’s National Committee on

THREE FACTORS DRIVE GROWTH

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SDG’s sounding board for future policy development, comprises 14 leading UAE companies that work together with the government to identify common goals and prioritise the SDG to focus efforts on. In 2019, SDG 5 was voted as the council’s engagement focus, given its importance to the UAE’s leadership.

2. ORGANISING AN ENGAGEMENT PLATFORM FOR BOTH SECTORS TO COME TOGETHER: Given the UAE’s ambition of becoming one of the top 25 countries in gender equality globally, PSAC members voted on SDG 5 as the council’s focus for engagement. After assessing competitiveness reports for the UAE’s ranking in genderrelated matters and consulting the Gender Balance Council (GBC) on the UAE’s priority areas, a workshop on SDG 5 (Gender Equality) was determined as the best way to engage with the private sector. The goal of the workshop was to solicit insights on the challenges, opportunities, and mechanisms needed to build ongoing private sector initiatives and advance the UAE’s gender equality ambitions.

The workshop was a success and resulted in over 18 recommendations presented to the GBC and PSAC for endorsement.

3. CREATING AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT: Engagement did not cease at the

workshop; in fact, it began there.

Recognising that transparent dialogue builds legitimacy and allows the private sector to engage as an equal partner with the government, after the workshop, FCSA continued to engage with all participants to keep them updated on how the recommendations were received and adopted by the UAE government and PSAC. To strengthen and legitimise the government’s support of the private sector, FCSA attracted businesses that were willing to pilot the recommendations on a small scale to provide policymakers feedback on the initiatives’ effectiveness and potential opportunities for a broader implementation.

In practice, collaboration with the private sector has resulted in additional value in different ways.

Firstly, bringing in wider stakeholders from the private sector and government as partners has helped build buy-in and ownership of the workshop’s recommendations.

In addition, bringing in organisations from different industries represented by stakeholders of different seniority has resulted in recommendations that deliver a more holistic solution.

As such, the final recommendations fit the UAE’s context and can be easily implemented across different industries. The collective actions taken by the various organisations also provided sufficient scale to drive change. With roughly 50 representatives from various

companies and government entities, the partnership created the critical mass needed for decision-makers to endorse the recommendations and provide essential support to help in delivering the recommendations.

Lastly, having different industries and government representatives at the same table raised the level of knowledge for all participants. Not only can the private sector representatives exchange knowledge and experiences, but they can also listen to the government and learn how the government tackles development challenges.

The engagement with the private sector on the SDGs was a clear demonstration that the collaboration can deliver on its potential when the government and the private sector work together on becoming each other’s valued partner in driving sustainable development forward.

1 The UAE also engages with the private sector through the Global Councils on SDGs. The Global Councils, launched in 2018 during the World Government Summit, is a unique interdisciplinary network of decision-makers from governments, international organisations, academia and the private sector, coming together to share innovative practices and discuss creative implementation of the 17 SDGs.

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FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT

INTO DUBAI’S GREEN ECONOMY SECTORS

2003-2019H1 LOGISTICS

ICT & INTERNET INFRASTRUCTURE

RETAIL TRADE

RENEWABLE ENERGY

NUMBER OF PROJECTS 70

60

50

40

30

20

10

DISCLAIMER ABOVE DATA IS APPROVED BY 3RD PARTY AND IS SUBJECT TO AUDIT BY FDI MARKETS. DATA IS ACCURATE AS PER THE SYSTEM AT THE TIME OF REPORTING. (21 NOVEMBER 2019)

2019 H1

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

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FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT INTO RENEWABLE ENERGY IN DUBAI FROM 2007 TO FIRST HALF OF 2019 AMOUNTED FOR

2.36

US$ BILLION

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HER EXCELLENCY LANA NUSSEIBEH UAE AMBASSADOR AND PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE TO THE UNITED NATIONS

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he thinking on where the green economy begins and ends has evolved enormously in the short lifetime of the term, however, issues like women’s empowerment, tolerance, societal values, and giving back have historically not been part of the green economy’s scope. Today, after five years of lessons learned from implementing the Sustainable Development Goals, I am delighted to introduce this chapter by affirming that all of these things are connected. The green economy is not viable without a larger enabling environment that comes from a wide range of factors – whether a society is open or closed to innovation, has a diverse workforce, or places importance on representing communities that have not always had a seat at the policymaking table.

In short, the green economy depends on the personality of a society.

As the UAE’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, I see firsthand how the world’s greatest opportunities and challenges are a direct result of their complex, multi-dimensional contexts. As much as we might like to focus on just one or two of the 17 SDGs to change the world, they are impossible to separate

because their inter-relatedness is so deep.

That perspective has strengthened my belief in the need for the UAE to continue to holistically champion issues like gender equality, tolerance, and social support as part of the green economy. This is the course set by our leadership, including His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is an approach based on the overwhelming evidence that we make faster progress on goals as varied as security, post-conflict reconstruction, and climate action when women are equal partners in these efforts and when societies are proud of their diversity.

In this chapter, we look at the “personality” of the UAE. While our circumstances have changed enormously in recent decades through our position as a global hub, we continue to build on the bedrock values instilled by our founding fathers: inclusion, compassion, and community-mindedness.

They are what make us suited to wholeheartedly contribute to the green economy and be invested in its global success.

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5

OUR SOCIETY HAS A

UNIQUE PERSONALITY

SUQIA UAE:

A WATER-SECURE WORLD FOR ALL

By SUQIA UAE

SUQIA UAE CONTINUES ITS EFFORTS TOWARDS ENDING THE GLOBAL WATER CRISIS, TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE WORLD.

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ater is a fundamental human need and a driver for sustainable growth, yet water scarcity affects more than 40% of the global population and is projected to rise. While 2.6 billion people have gained access to improved drinking water sources since 1990, 844 million people are still struggling with water sources. Globally, one in nine people do not have access to safe and clean water, despite there being sufficient fresh water on our planet. Millions of people who reside in tough and dry-land conditions around the world do not drink, cook, or bathe with clean water — a basic natural resource that we too often take for granted.

The majority of these people live in isolated rural areas and spend hours walking to collect and transport water for their families every day. Walking long distances while carrying 15 litres of water three to four times a day is exhausting and leads to severe health issues, including damaging their heads, necks and spines. To make matters worse, the water is often unclean and contaminated, leaving people with waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera and typhoid. Not only is the water potentially contaminated, but the journey to fetch the water can also expose these people to further complications, such as malaria, animal bites and infections.

In response to this crisis, the UAE Water Aid Foundation, Suqia UAE, an entity under the umbrella of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives foundation,

To date, Suqia UAE has positively influenced and served clean and safe water to over nine million people in 34 countries.

is a non-profit organisation that works to provide humanitarian aid around the world, assisting communities that suffer from water scarcity by providing them with potable water. The main objectives of Suqia UAE are to enhance the UAE’s role in the execution of relief efforts, sustainable development, and dissemination of information regarding humanitarian crises. To date, Suqia UAE has positively influenced and served clean and safe water to over nine million people in 34 countries.

Water connects every aspect of life and Suqia UAE witnesses this in the communities it aids. Access to safe water and sanitation turns time spent into time saved and gives communities

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

Suqia UAE raises funds and initiates water-related projects that bring access to safe and clean water for communities in developing countries. Suqia UAE works with partners who share the same vision and passion to serve those most vulnerable and end the water crisis. Through our partnerships, we have been able to implement more than 1000 projects to provide millions of people with access to clean water. Suqia UAE provides different solutions to different water-related problems, whether it is water contamination, accessibility, drought, or any other issue. Before implementing a project, we assess the community needs and circumstances, taking into consideration the community’s size, population, availability and quality of water sources, terrain and climate to determine the best solutions and find the right technologies to supply safe drinking water in a cost-effective manner.

Suqia UAE’s objectives are not limited to the provision of potable water to those in need. The scale of the water crisis demands global efforts and a number of different approaches that extend beyond giving water. Suqia UAE works to identify how innovative and sustainable technologies can be part of the solution to the global water crisis. With a strong focus on water and sustainable technologies, research and innovation, Suqia UAE manages and supervises the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award. This biennial award urges participants to find sustainable, innovative and solar-powered water technology that provide answers to the problem of water scarcity.

Suqia UAE also employs a proactive approach to address such issues by conducting a variety of programmes and initiatives. Suqia UAE realises that to protect future generations from the effects of the water scarcity crisis and its implications for food security, agriculture, education, environment, and equality, we must engage youth and make them aware of their critical role in managing the crisis. “Water: The Global Passport” is an awareness programme designed for middle and elementary school students that aim to educate about water conservation using interactive approaches. Suqia UAE has also been a strategic sponsor for a couple of cycles of a youth engagement programme called the Carbon Ambassador Programme.

Another approach Suqia UAE believes to be of impact is to have volunteers on the ground. Through this program, the volunteers witness the importance of having access to clean water and its ability to drive sustainable growth in the communities. Suqia UAE has organised numerous volunteering programmes in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment in multiple countries over the years, including Republic of Uganda, Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Tajikistan.

The sustainable development water projects Suqia UAE has been able to implement have had an impact on communities globally, but certain challenges call for temporary solutions or simpler techniques, pending the development of

better alternatives. For example, in the communities of Uganda, women and children are obliged to walk for miles to reach water sources. As such, Suqia UAE has distributed 450 user-friendly rollover buckets, in which the women can carry five times the amount of water and thus spend their time more efficiently.

CHAPTER 5

more time to pursue education and work opportunities. Access to clean and safe water restores families to better health, which in turn increases their productivity. The health benefits associated with clean water include minimising sick days for students, teachers, farmers, and workers, contributing to their ability to build a stronger future. Access to clean and safe water is critical in breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring food security. Access to clean water empowers girls and women. When they are freed from fetching water, they can go to school, pursue their dreams, start businesses, improve their homes and take care of their families. By empowering a woman, you empower a nation.

Another simple solution Suqia UAE has made a yearly tradition is the Holy Month of Ramadan campaign.

Working alongside 15 charity organisations locally and internationally, Suqia UAE distributes water cups and bottles to mosques and Iftar tents.

Suqia UAE’s initiatives are important to fulfil the UAE’s vision of becoming one of the top countries investing in foreign aid and philanthropy. As a result of the collective effort of Suqia UAE and similar organisations, the nation has maintained its position for five consecutive years as one of the 10 largest Official Development Aid donor states relative to income according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said “The UAE extends a hand of integrity, peace and giving to the countries and people of the world, building bridges of understanding between our people and others, especially in the poor countries which we, as a leadership, seek to provide with the essentials of good life through humanitarian initiatives”.

The programmes Suqia UAE has diligently worked on over the years have radically transformed entire communities and empowered the lives of disadvantaged people.

Though faced with an overwhelming challenge, Suqia UAE is committed to persevering and ending the global water crisis, while bearing the nation’s vision and principles of governance in mind.

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A UNIQUE, TOLERANT AND

RESPONSIBLE SOCIETY By HABIBA AL MAR’ASHI CO-FOUNDER AND CHAIRPERSON, EMIRATES ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP (EEG)

HABIBA AL MAR’ASHI REFLECTS ON THE VALUE OF TOLERANCE ENSHRINED IN THE EMIRATI CULTURE AND ON THE IMPORTANCE OF JOINING HANDS TO PRESERVE OUR PLANET.

“O

ur society is a respectful and coherent one, bound by tolerance and openness. It distances itself from all forms of discrimination and biases. It is a disciplined society, committed to its promises” says the fifth of the eight principles recently announced by the UAE Government.

Once the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was asked, “What is Eemaan (belief/faith)?” His sage reply was, “Eemaan is patience and tolerance.” Jabir ibn Abdullah recanted The Messenger of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) saying, “May Allah have mercy on a tolerant man when he sells, buys and seeks repayment”. So tolerance in Islam, equally in economic matters and all others, is a legacy that has been safeguarded for centuries by Muslims all over the world.

From the time of the formation of the federation of the United Arab Emirates, the nation has lived and promoted tolerance and openness. 2019, earmarked as the Year of Tolerance, reinforces the commitment of the country’s visionary founders and their descendants.

The UAE is the first country to formally have a Minister of Tolerance, along with a number of significant local and international initiatives on the subject.

The local community of the UAE, the Emiratis, have welcomed all nationalities to come and live amongst them and fulfill their destiny. The Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is the epitome of the spirit of tolerance and

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

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openness. His vision of a knowledgebased society that nurtures talent and fosters creativity and innovation is palpable in the phenomenal growth of the UAE and the growing recognition of Dubai as a global opportunity hotspot. This has only

Our motto, “Together for a better environment”, reflects our passionate belief in the unparalleled value of collective action and social responsibility.

been possible due to the absence of any form of discrimination, bias or preference.

Emirates Environmental Group boasts a long and established track record of collaboration across all the key sectors of society, irrespective of background or interests. Ours has, fundamentally been an open door policy. We have mobilised individuals and institutions across all divides, including age, gender and ethnicity, and size, sector and geography. Our motto, “Together for a better environment”, reflects our passionate belief in the unparalleled value of collective action and social responsibility.

Planet Earth and her bounty of species and ecosystems is the nodal source of our sustainability, both figuratively and literally. Therefore, no individual or organisation can be unaware of the overarching need to reduce distance and join forces for environmental preservation.

Each and every one of us, either personally or through our work, is obligated to honour and uphold our responsibility to the environment and society. Ultimately, we share our home and hearth with billions of earthly creatures, where each one is an irreplaceable component in the web of life. Co-existence is the order of nature, and tolerance the unwritten norm of society.

Constitutionally and culturally driven by the ethos of tolerance, the UAE has developed it as a pillar of strength and an indicator of its competitiveness. Indeed, in the current state of the world, fractured by intolerance, hatred and conflict; the positive example of the UAE acts as a beacon of hope. Within the multiethnic world order of the 21st Century, trust, understanding and tolerance are the cornerstones of peace and sustainability.

ABOUT HABIBA AL MAR’ASHI Habiba Al Mar’ashi is the Co-founder and Chairperson of the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG). Under her leadership, in 2001, EEG became the first environmental NGO in the world to receive ISO 14001 certification.

In 2004, Ms Al Mar’ashi initiated the first corporate social responsibility (CSR) network in the Arab region, as the only multi-stakeholder forum with local and multi-national entities. Ms Al Mar’ashi was the first Arab woman to become a Board Member of the UN Global Compact from 2006 to 2013.

Ms Al Mar’ashi is involved in many leading initiatives on environment, sustainability, CSR, women and development at the national, regional and international levels.

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THE UAE WOMEN

DRIVING CLIMATE ACTION By TARA TARIQ SENIOR PROJECT OFFICER, DUBAI CARBON CLIMATE CHANGE IS A CHANGE THAT IS UNWELCOME, AND WOMEN IN THE UAE PLAY AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN THE EFFORTS TO MITIGATE ITS PRECURSORS, AS WELL AS ITS IMPACT.

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omen are key actors in the fight against climate change. They are on the frontlines – think: images of women resettling their families after floods or managing the impacts of droughts on their farms – and they are decisionmakers and activists, with the ability to leverage their influence for women and others who must cope with the impacts of change. These women collectively spearhead a movement that is now globally recognised as climate action. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has pressed for more involvement of women in roles addressing climate action, as research shows that countries that exemplify a high representation of women in government formally sanction more environmental treaties than countries with fewer female environmental role-players. Moreover, women participating in both political and

leadership roles engenders more cooperation and leads to improved levels of outcome in relation to climate change projects and policies.

In contrast to the women on the frontlines, the women tackling climate action may or may not be affected by capricious weather patterns, but they share the commonality of using their intellectual, administerial, and influential capacity to indirectly and/ or directly catalyse the change needed to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

This article features the voices and aspirations of four remarkable women who are actively influencing the UAE’s carbon emission pathway within their own domain of expertise. or response, or of the negotiators for an agreement. This inclusion raises the likelihood that gender-specific needs and impacts are considered and addressed, and it also publicly recognises women as equal partners.”

HE LANA NUSSEIBEH Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh serves as Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations, driving partnerships between the UAE, UN, and its 192 other member countries on everything from security to governance, but with a special focus on women’s empowerment and climate action. She has also served as President of the Executive Board of UN Women, the UN’s arm for gender equality.

In her position, Ambassador Nusseibeh has seen firsthand how much the UAE can contribute to the climate field. “People know the UAE is an oil exporting country in a historically conservative region, but that’s also why people take notice when we stand up and say that renewable energy is the cheapest power source in the world and that we have a target of 50% sustainable energy domestically by 2050, from almost zero per cent today. Having a country like the UAE take action on climate change opens the minds of sceptics who say it is too expensive or that it isn’t feasible.

There is growing recognition across every section of the UN – strongly supported by the UAE – that women need to be 50% of the members of any consultative group for a UN programme

Ambassador Nusseibeh credits the UAE’s experience with the positions it has been able to champion at the UN. “We are fortunate in the UAE that our leadership – both men and women – is committed to gender equality and women’s empowerment through an ecosystem of support. Women are now the majority of our university graduates and they are protected by equal pay for equal work laws.

The government requires corporate boards to have at least one female board member, and our president, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, set a 50% quota for women on the Federal National Council. We have more phases of work to undertake, but this is the kind of action the UAE would like to see globally – leaders working to create an enabling environment for women.”

Another dimension of climate action that Ambassador Nusseibeh sees as critical is youth. “The knowledge and passion young people have for climate change is real. In the UAE, we have youth delegates for all climate negotiations and a youth council for the teams that work on our climate policies.

We’re keen to maintain that momentum at home and in the UN. It’s essential to have young people in the tent on climate change.”

context, the UAE wastes US$ 4 billion worth of food every year.

Her Excellency Mariam AlMheiri was appointed to the role of Minister of State for Food Security in 2017. Prior to this, she served as the Assistant Undersecretary for Water Resources and Nature Conservation Affairs at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Today, she is a mainstay for food security in the country and she is primarily in charge of aligning infrastructure development with food security goals, as outlined in the UAE Centennial 2071. Under her watch, the UAE aims to be the number one country on the Global Food Security Index by 2051, and poised to deliver the economic impact of creating 16,000 new jobs and a 100,000-tonne increase in domestic food production by 2021.

The statistics on food and its impact on climate change are sobering. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), around 25% to 30% of food is lost or wasted globally, and 8% to 10% of global GHG emissions are associated with this loss. In

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HE MARIAM ALMHEIRI

A recent IPCC report, titled Climate Change and Land, recommends that food loss and waste-reduction strategies consider gender dynamics, involving participation of women throughout the food supply chain. HE AlMheiri is well ahead of the narrative. Her food security roadmap for the UAE is structured on the premise that “women not only contribute to food security measures via government systems or private sectors, they are also encouraged to become innovative entrepreneurs who establish pioneering food projects across the entire food supply chain and provide sustainable nutritional value to all members of society.”

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

By launching the UAE National Food Security Strategy in 2018, HE AlMheiri aims to reduce food waste in the UAE by 15% and promote the production of local produce and less carbon-intensive, healthy sources of meat. What is uniquely progressive is that these goals stem from critical recognition of the key role women play in helping the country meet this target, by advancing food security as scientists, technicians and policy-makers and also by discouraging wastefulness at the household level.

Her contribution to climate action links food security goals with carbon mitigation measures. HE AlMheiri is also improving the country’s health, as a landmark study recognised by both the WHO and the UN has established a clear link between sustainable agricultural practices and a measurable uptake in nutrition.

mobilise women in the renewable energy and sustainability sector. To that effect, in 2015, she launched the UAE-led Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WiSER) organisation, where she held the position of Programme Director until 2018. WiSER is the only platform in the UAE that positions women as drivers of change and innovation, and the organisation continues to facilitate discussions and forums engaging and empowering like-minded female leaders from around the world.

HE DR NAWAL AL-HOSANY Her Excellency Dr Nawal Al-Hosany serves as Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Before her position as Permanent Representative, she held the role of Deputy Director General of the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA). She also served as Executive Director of Sustainability at Masdar, Abu Dhabi, and Director of the Zayed Future Energy Prize – now known as the Zayed Sustainability Prize.

HE Dr Al-Hosany is a passionate and effective advocate for the expansion of roles that

HE Dr Al-Hosany humbly acknowledges her late father as a pivotal enabler behind her ranking as one of the most influential women in the UAE. Her pursuit of higher education in one of the best institutions in the world was through support provided by the UAE government, which recognised her talent. Ironically, despite a strong governmental and cultural support base at home, she has faced a perception bias outside the UAE, “In the US and a couple of European cities, people immediately assumed that I was an assistant rather than the head of the delegation,” she said.

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HE Dr Al-Hosany continues her leadership work within IRENA, which plays a vital support role for the UAE Green Growth Strategy – the UAE is well underway with its plans to generate over 8GW in energy through solar plants, already operational in parts of the country.

Her Excellency is optimistic about the future role of women. “Gender equality is enshrined in the UAE Constitution,” she notes. Seventy-seven (77%) of Emirati women are enrolled in higher education and 56% of UAE university graduates with STEM degrees are female. To fuel this momentum, HE Dr Al-Hosany’s message to the UAE

LAILA MOSTAFA ABDULLATIF Laila Mostafa Abdullatif joined the Emirates Nature-WWF in 2009. Within a few years, she moved into the role of Director General as she accrued notable achievements. Through her leadership and successful partnerships, the UAE has facilitated successful environmental projects, such as the UAE Indoor Lighting Standard, the establishment of Wadi Wurayah National Park, and the Environment Endowment Fund.

Laila is a staunch advocate for the UAE’s green economy. “The UAE may face drastic consequences from climate change, however, the nation is well-placed to lead the green economy,” she commented. With the remarkable research team she leads at Emirates Nature-WWF, she is effectively influencing the market and addressing institutional failures, which handicap the current economic model from advancing sustainable development goals.

While continuing to engage directly with policy-makers, Emirates Nature-WWF seeks to create an enabling policy environment through a strategy of engaging with leading businesses using an economic opportunity-led narrative. The objective of this approach is to help policy-makers adopt and put in place the necessary framework and legislation in support of the national climate change strategy.

youth is: “Follow your dream and take an active part in society. Under the visionary guidance of our leadership, everyone in the UAE can take part and work towards an environmentally sound and sustainable future, as outlined in the UAE Centennial Plan 2071 and supported by the Climate Change Plan 2050.”

Amid all this, Laila is cognisant of how motherhood and climate action are not mutually exclusive goals. As mothers, “it is up to us to ensure that our children are well-equipped with the knowledge and passion to coexist harmoniously with nature.”

This belief is the catalyst behind her most recent project, Connect with Nature, which empowers young women by educating and fostering their passion for sustainability. It is Laila’s personal goal to encourage more women to lead the wave against climate change. By forging a career path that targets climate change mitigation, she has noticed the ensuing balance of goals, such as confidence and motherhood, among many women in the UAE.

LEGISLATION, SUPPORT AND PERCEPTION The four women featured in this report do not function in a silo. They are four selected from a vast and rich network of trailblazing women who are mentees of and serve as mentors to many other outstanding women. What is evident from the narratives shared above is that the contribution these remarkable women make towards climate change mitigation stands greater potential when the cogwheels of legislation, support and gender-positive perception are well-oiled and functioning.

Empowering Women on the Frontlines of Climate Change. UN Environment. Retrieved: https://www.unenvironment.org/news-and-stories/story/empowering-women-frontlines-climate-change

1

5 Reasons Why Climate Action Needs Women. 02 April, 2019. United Nations Climate Change. Retrieved: https://unfccc.int/ news/5-reasons-why-climate-action-needs-women

2

3

Ibid.

4

Introduction to Gender and Climate Change. Retrieved: https://unfccc.int/gender

IPCC Special Report on Climate Change, Desertification, Land Degradation, Sustainable Land Management, Food Security, and Greenhouse gas fluxes in Terrestrial Ecosystems. 07 August 2019.

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About TARA TARIQ Tara Tariq is a Senior Project Officer at Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence. She has more than eight years of international experience in developing sustainability strategies and frameworks. She is a certifed PMP, LEED and WELL AP.

FEWA.GOV.AE At your fingertips

FOSTERING TOLERANCE THROUGH

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY By EMIRATES FOUNDATION

EMIRATES FOUNDATION’S INITIATIVES PROMOTE VOLUNTEERISM AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN YOUTH, CONTRIBUTING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MORE TOLERANT AND INCLUSIVE SOCIETY.

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olerance and social responsibility values are at the heart of the UAE’s social and cultural fabric. They are ingrained in the nation’s institutions and organisations, in recognition of their role in building strong communities and supporting sustainable development.

These values have formed the mission and programmes of Emirates Foundation, which has successfully built a strong programme portfolio using the model of Venture Philanthropy, since its establishment in 2005. The Foundation applies a research-driven, market-based approach to youth development and responds to targeted needs and challenges of youth between the ages of 15 and 35. Based on this the Foundation develops solutions to real problems with a focused operational portfolio. This relies on the support of private sector partners under their social responsibility corporate goals. Each of the Foundation’s programmes is an effort to guide, empower and inspire youth, while engaging their social responsibility and civic engagement spirit as follows:

YOUTH SCIENCE AND INNOVATION Think Science Programme: The Think Science programme is the largest scientific platform of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. It aims to encourage the next generation of leaders and scientists to pursue science as a field of study and a career path.

YOUTH VOLUNTEERISM Emirates Foundation has successfully developed a model of creating volunteering impact at scale, and in setting standards and best practices for the region to follow through its Takatof, Sanid, volunteers.ae, and Pioneers of Volunteering programmes.

YOUTH SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP Kafa’at Programme: The Kafa’at programme is one of Emirates Foundation’s key programmes established in 2007 with the aim of reaching, inspiring and educating Emirati youth between 15 and 35 on entrepreneurship, as well as creating jobs for the future through enterprise development.

YOUTH EMPLOYABILITY Dawamee Programme: The Dawamee programme is one of Emirates Foundation’s key programmes, operating as a career enabler and catalyst to empower Emirati youth to access the labour market remotely based on market-driven demand.

At Emirates Foundation, social responsibility starts with volunteering, with the aim of nurturing a shared spirit of giving and respect within the community, honouring the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Emirates Foundation has launched the largest volunteering platform nationwide, volunteers.ae, under the flagship of the Ministry of Community Development, which has attracted and engaged over 405,123 volunteers and 449 organisations working towards serving the nation.

Measuring the impact of volunteering has become increasingly important. At Emirates Foundation and through longstanding experience, Emirates Foundation has developed a state-ofthe-art Volunteer Management System to facilitate and organise the process of managing volunteering initiatives across the UAE, as well as measuring volunteering hours, youth experiences, learnings and satisfaction, as well as community inputs and satisfaction.

Within the realm of science and innovation, over the last seven years, Emirates Foundation has created an ecosystem for youth STEM creativity through its successful Think Science programme. This integrated programme has helped turn innovation into jobs and impactful STI projects. Since its establishment in 2013, the Think Science programme has impacted over 70,000 youth to explore and experiment within a variety of STEM categories and subjects and develop scientific innovations addressing society’s most pressing challenges.

In youth employability, Emirates Foundation launched the Digital

Dawamee Portal for Remote Jobs, providing a steady talent pipeline for the private and public sectors.

Globally, Emirates Foundation has also carried the UAE’s name high, taking the nation’s successful model for volunteerism to the world. This enabled the UAE to become the global host capital for the 2020 International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE), the first time such a conference will be hosted in the Arab world. The conference will be organised by Emirates Foundation.

As the national foundation of the UAE, Emirates Foundation’s strategy has been designed to complement and support the vison of our leaders and wider policies set forth by our nation, impacting the lives of over 300,000 youth across the nation. It is also closely aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The link between social responsibility and tolerance is evident in the hundreds of thousands of youth engaged through the Emirates Foundation programmes.

Studies have also shown the positive impact of socially responsible actions on society at large. Youths who volunteer tend to develop healthy lifestyles, advanced social skills and further intellectual development, a stronger sense of responsibility, accountability and self-esteem, as well as an interest in learning and making direct contributions to their communities and societies. It is therefore our responsibility to provide opportunities and access to nurture and grow individual and corporate social responsibility.

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A LEADER IN CREATING SOCIAL IMPACT

Emirates Foundation has launched the largest volunteering platform nationwide, volunteers.ae, under the flagship of the Ministry of Community Development, which has attracted and engaged over 405,123 volunteers and 449 organisations working towards serving the nation.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

Under the category of social entrepreneurship, the Foundation has launched the Emirates Award for the Arabian Gulf, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Chairman of Emirates Foundation. This award aims to foster a culture of social entrepreneurship, in line with the National Entrepreneurship Strategic Plan and the Foundation’s socially driven mission, by encouraging youth to develop innovative solutions and social enterprises that address society’s most pressing challenges.

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HOW DUBAI’S EIGHT PRINCIPLES

INFLUENCED GREEN PRESERVATION By LAILA MOSTAFA ABDULLATIF DIRECTOR GENERAL, EMIRATES NATURE-WWF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF EMIRATES NATURE-WWF SHEDS LIGHT ON THE ORGANISATION’S EFFORTS TO PROMOTE CONSERVATION WITHIN UAE SOCIETY, CONTRIBUTING TO THE VISION OF THE COUNTRY’S WISE LEADERSHIP.

working on combatting climate change and educating youth on energy issues and biodiversity conservation – terrestrial and marine, as well as the clampdown on the illegal wildlife trade.

This principle has been implemented until this day, with the direction and guidance of the UAE’s wise leadership encouraging and promoting the conservation of the nation’s natural habitats and wildlife. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, embedded these values in his recently published best-seller, My Story, a detailed selection of anecdotes chronicling the life and times of the Ruler in honour of his 50 years of service to the nation. In the book, HH Sheikh Mohammed dictates the eight principles with which Dubai can continue its impressive growth streak as the economic capital of the UAE. These principles are not only imperative to help maintain Dubai’s development, but they are also particularly potent to the country’s conservation efforts.

Our Marine Programme seeks to create a network of marine protected areas with the united support of regional players.

By recognising that ecosystem-based conservation is preferable and will achieve a higher success rate, our team will promote the need to safeguard areas of high conservation value and promote regional collaboration to conserve flagship species, such as whales and turtles. This programme will feed into WWF’s Global Priorities and has therefore been tipped as an area of our work that will make a significant contribution to worldwide conservation efforts. These are just a few examples of the various long-term projects and initiatives Emirates Nature is collaborating on.

The UAE is home to myriad natural landscapes and rare species. Emirati society has a “unique personality”, which reflects on how tolerant and open the country has become. As part of the Emirates Nature-WWF Strategy 2015-2020, we are prioritising marine and terrestrial conservation to protect the wildlife. Our organisation is

HH Sheikh Mohammed has asked the relevant government bodies to create a new economic sector every three years that will generate employment

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he UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, once said, “On land and in the sea, our fore-fathers lived and survived in this environment.

They were able to do so because they recognised the need to conserve it, to take from it only what they needed to live, and to preserve it for succeeding generations.”

Relevant government authorities have also been implementing green economy objectives, including building sustainable infrastructure and investing in renewable energy assets, with a strong focus on manufacturing electric vehicles and raising awareness for efficient water and energy consumption. In Dubai, the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy aims to increase the share of renewable electricity produced to one per cent by 2020 and five per cent by 2030. This Strategy also aims to reduce Dubai’s total energy consumption by 30% by 2030.

The Gulf Green Turtle Conservation Project

DISCOVERING THE SECRET LIVES OF GREEN TURTLES

Due to a 50-70% decline in population size, Green Turtles are endangered globally. Research into ways to safeguard their future survival is crucial and will ensure a healthy marine ecosystem.

ABOUT THE PROJECT Since 2016, we have used satellite tracking technology to chart the movements of turtles in real-time and identify vital areas for conservation in the Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, and assess the connectivity between feeding and nesting areas. We also have genetic data for analysis.

IMPORTANT TURTLE AREAS (ITAs) Crucial to the project’s success is the identification of Important Turtle Areas (ITAs), critical areas which are essential for the survival of Green Turtles.

Since turtles are effective indicators of the wider biodiversity, ITAs are also likely to be Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) for many other marine animals.

Identification and recognition of ITAs can:

Improve marine management measures

Minimise threats to turtles’ survival

Improve marine planning inside and outside of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

Emirates Nature-WWF works together with local and international partners to develop a robust regional baseline of its ecological and conservation needs, ultimately supporting the national priorities and transnational conservation efforts to safeguard Green Turtles’ future survival.

We work with: Environment Agency -Abu Dhabi, Environment and Protected Areas Authority of Sharjah, Environment Protection and Development Authority of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Oman Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs, Environmental Society of Oman, Five Oceans Environmental Services, and Marine Research Foundation.

One third of the Gulf’s marine life could be extinct by 2090 if we maintain our current damaging habits, according to a study from the University of British Columbia. Water temperatures have reached between 35°C and 37°C at least five times since the late 1990s, causing coral bleaching and the loss of coral essential to breeding fish. 23 coraldependent species in the Gulf are at high risk of regional extinction as corals die off. Abu Dhabi will be significantly affected by this loss: with current policies and commitments, we are at risk of global warming temperatures rising by up to 3°C by 2100 – with the goal of staying well below 2°C for planetary survival. These topics are of great relevance to conservation and must be prioritised for a future where we can live in harmony with nature.

CHAPTER 5

Emirates Nature-WWF has worked with the Ministry of Energy and Industry (MOEI) to identify the key areas of policy intervention supporting the transition to renewable energy (RE). As the country pursues the diversification agenda while addressing climate change, an abundance of solar is proving to be an advantage in building a dynamic energy sector. The UAE has already seen record low bids for the development of solar power plants and has put in place a National Energy Strategy that targets 44% renewable energy power capacity by 2050.

Highlighting the UAE’s commitment to future generations, HH Sheikh Mohammed has always stressed the government’s task as working towards maintaining a secure future for the people and focusing on ensuring the prosperity of future generations. The UAE has taken important steps towards mitigating climate change and its devastating consequences. This has been prioritised by the government through the National Climate Change Plan developed by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), and the UAE Green Growth Strategy, a long-term national initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed in 2012.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

opportunities, thereby contributing to the Gross Domestic Product of the nation. It underlines the importance of changing the country’s economic perspective and shifting dependency on non-renewable fossil fuels to renewable sources, such as solar power, hydropower and wind power. As part of its long-term strategies for economic growth and development, the UAE is committed to diversifying its economy and supporting technological innovation with business ideas of the future. This is also detailed in an AED 50 billion “Ghadan 21” stimulus package for Abu Dhabi announced by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, last year.

To encourage the preservation of the environment, we will continue to work in line with the government on bringing conservation science closer to policy-makers by initiating and encouraging dialogue on these issues across all sectors of society. It is our duty to lead the youth in the footsteps of our strong leadership and create opportunities for them to thrive and grow with the UAE – the first step is to make a collective change amongst members of our community.

ABOUT LAILA MOSTAFA ABDULLATIF Laila Mostafa Abdullatif has served as Director General at Emirates NatureWWF since May 2017. Her role involves leading the organisation locally and representing WWF regionally.

She is also involved in successfully initiating and implementing several conservation and education projects and initiatives across the region.

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SOCIAL PROSPERITY THROUGH

INCLUSION AND EMPOWERMENT By

BY HE AHMAD JULFAR DIRECTOR GENERAL, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (CDA) THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY SHEDS LIGHT ON THE AUTHORITY’S ACTIVITIES PROMOTING THE FORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF DUBAI’S SOCIETY BASED ON THE VALUES OF INCLUSION AND GENEROSITY.

S

ince its inception in 2008, the Community Development Authority (CDA) has been implementing a social development framework aligned to the goals of Dubai’s strategic plans, which are anchored on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai. The vision is to create a city of ‘happy, creative and empowered people’, an ‘inclusive and cohesive society’, and a community that is the ‘preferred place to live, work and visit’ for people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities.

CDA has been leading a community development approach, which reflects

the fifth principle of governance for Dubai, following the values of openness, tolerance, discipline, modesty, perseverance and generosity.

Its mission is to plan and implement programmes and services that improve the welfare of society at large.

CDA develops and implements policies to protect the rights of vulnerable groups, such as senior citizens, people of determination, children, and disadvantaged families, as well as inmates in correctional institutions.

CDA ensures that government policies help these groups access equitable opportunities and integrate easily into society. In addition, it plays a major role in nurturing a culture of volunteerism among UAE nationals to help shape

national identity and strengthen social harmony.

CDA also espouses awareness of human rights and promotes the UAE’s positive efforts in ensuring practices within communities and institutions operating in Dubai are in line with human rights laws and standards.

CDA’s primary role is providing and regulating the licensing permits of non-profit, civil society organisations and associations in Dubai, that organise social, cultural, artistic or entertainment activities within the emirate. CDA ensures the legality and quality standards of services, in line with Dubai’s vision of social development for all segments of society.

To efficiently achieve its strategies, CDA has implemented the Fourth Generation of the Government Excellence System as its benchmark for customer service. The customer happiness centre removes all barriers between CDA and the people through an innovative and warm environment, where people can swiftly receive the services they need.

UPLIFTING LIVES One of the main mandates of CDA is to empower the disadvantaged in society

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

CHAPTER 5

and ensure they have equitable access to a range of social assistance including job empowerment, as well as the financial ability and awareness to sustain their specific needs. CDA’s range of financial and social benefits empower citizens who are facing challenges, working hand-in-hand with individuals or families through allocation of job opportunities; support in building personal and job-related skills; creation of commercial opportunities and entrepreneurship skills; and financial management awareness.

EMPOWERING PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION Dubai’s effort to sustain an inclusive society is visible in key initiatives such as the ‘My Community... A City for Everyone’. In line with the goal of transforming Dubai into a friendly city for people of determination by 2020, and Law No. 2 of 2014, which provides the legal framework for the protection of their rights in the emirate, CDA issued the Sanad Smart Card in 2015, to ensure people of determination have access to certain benefits and services.

COMMUNICATION THROUGH THE MAJLIS To encourage open communication among communities, CDA has held various events under its Majlis Initiative, providing venues for social networking and organising events,

seminars and lectures that raise awareness about CDA’s services. This builds a direct line of communication with residents, giving opportunities for feedback and recommendations, also serving as a gathering place for the elderly to hold activities, such as the Thukher Club, and meeting the younger generation for knowledgesharing.

SENIOR CITIZENS AS A PILLAR OF THE SOCIETY There are various programmes that enable UAE senior citizens to enjoy the prime of their life while actively participating in efforts to achieve sustainable development. These initiatives aim to honour the elderly and provide the best facilities to live a life of dignity. This includes harnessing their wealth of experiences and wisdom, shared through an intergenerational communication platform and designing cultural and recreational programmes where they can best benefit from a package of services and facilities in the form of the Thukher Card. In addition, senior citizens who live alone can benefit from ‘Weleef’, a programme which provides support and care services, including regular training courses designed to introduce professionals who offer social and health services to senior citizens at their residence.

EMBRACING FAMILIES, CHILDREN AND YOUTH

As part of the initiative to strengthen family bonds, CDA provides a range of social services to families, including consultations, financial support, foster care and child protection programmes. ‘Embrace’ is one of the Authority’s initiatives for abandoned children, ensuring that they are provided a positive environment to grow up in and feel included in society, under the care of foster families residing in Dubai.

ABOUT HE AHMAD ABDULKARIM JULFAR HE Ahmad Abdulkarim Julfar is currently serving as the Director General of the Community Development Authority (CDA). With vast experience in diverse sectors, including telecommunications, banking and community development, he holds several prominent leadership positions in the UAE. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company; Chairman of the Knowledge FundGovernment of Dubai; Vice Chairman of the Commercial Bank of Dubai; and a board member of Smart Stream Technologies.

139

THE YEAR OF TOLERANCE

FACT SHEET

WE NEED TO STUDY, TEACH, AND PRACTICE TOLERANCE AND TO INSTILL IT IN OUR CHILDREN, BOTH THROUGH EDUCATION AND OUR OWN EXAMPLE. WE ARE IMMENSELY PROUD THAT OUR COUNTRY IS HOME TO ALL PEOPLE OF VARIOUS BACKGROUNDS, WHO LIVE AND WORK TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE FOR THEIR CHILDREN WITHOUT FEAR, FANATICISM, HATE OR RACIAL DISCRIMINATION.

HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM, VICE PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER OF THE UAE AND RULER OF DUBAI

OBJECTIVES

MINISTER OF TOLERANCE

TO ESTABLISH VALUES OF TOLERANCE, COMMUNICATION AND COEXISTENCE IN SOCIETY.

ENABLING TOLERANCE IN SOCIETY THROUGH POLICIES AND LEGISLATION.

INTRODUCING THE UAE MODEL OF TOLERANCE TO THE WORLD TO BECOME PART OF COMMUNITY VIRTUES.

OPENNESS TO OTHER HUMAN CULTURES.

MISSION TO HIGHLIGHT THE IMPACT OF TOLERANCE, AND TO EXPAND THE SCOPE AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNICATION AND DIALOGUE.

FRAMEWORK HIS EXCELLENCY SHEIKH NAHAYAN BIN MUBARAK AL NAHAYAN

THE GHAF TREE WAS CHOSEN AS A SYMBOL OF THE YEAR OF TOLERANCE BECAUSE OF THE GREAT SIGNIFICANCE THAT THE TREE BEARS AS AN INDIGENOUS TREE.

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION

WORKPLACE

CULTURE

PROMOTING TOLERANCE WITHIN FAMILY AND COMMUNITY THROUGH CENTRES AND AWARENESS PROGRAMMES

PROMOTING TOLERANCE THROUGH EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES IN UNIVERSITIES AND SCHOOLS

PROMOTING TOLERANCE IN GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS THROUGH EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AWARENESS

CELEBRATING THE EXPATRIATE COMMUNITIES IN THE UAE AND IMPLEMENTING ART AND CULTURE SECTOR EVENTS

UAE MODEL ESTABLISHING THE UAE AS A GLOBAL CAPITAL OF TOLERANCE THROUGH CONFERENCES, FORUMS, AND ENRICHMENT OF CONTENT AWARENESS

POLICIES AND LEGISLATION REINFORCING TOLERANCE THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF POLICIES AND EXECUTIVE REGULATIONS

MEDIA UTILISING MEDIA POLICIES AND TELEVISION AND RADIO PROGRAMMES TO FOSTER THE MESSAGE OF TOLERANCE

INITIATIVES MINISTRY OF TOLERANCE

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

H H SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM ANNOUNCED STRUCTURAL CHANGES TO THE 12TH CABINET. THE MINISTRY OVERSEES THE PROGRAMMES, EVENTS, AND REGULATIONS THAT WOULD BOOST THE UAE’S MESSAGE OF TOLERANCE.

ZAYED TOLERANCE PLEDGE HH SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN ZAYED, MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION, LAUNCHED THE ZAYED TOLERANCE PLEDGE CAMPAIGN, WHICH AIMS TO CONSOLIDATE THE VALUES OF CO-EXISTENCE ESTABLISHED BY THE FOUNDING FATHER, SHEIKH ZAYED.

TOLERANCE BRIDGE

FESTIVAL OF TOLERANCE

TOLERANCE IN EDUCATION

THIS FESTIVAL FEATURES INCLUSIVE PUBLIC EVENTS THAT PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR DIALOGUE, APPRECIATION OF DIVERSITY, AND OUTCOME-ORIENTED FORUMS.

BRIGHTON COLLEGE HOSTING THE GLOBAL AWARENESS DAY.

HISTORIC VISITS THE UAE ORGANISED A SIGNIFICANT VISIT FROM THE HEAD OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH, POPE FRANCIS, MARKING THE FIRST TIME A PONTIFF VISITS THE REGION.

ZAYED-GANDHI MUSEUM THE ZAYED-GANDHI MUSEUM IN ABU DHABI TELLS THE STORY OF TOLERANCE AND THE JOINT VISIONS OF TWO DISTINGUISHED LEADERS, THE LATE SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN AND MAHATMA GANDHI.

CONFERENCE ON TOLERANCE IN FAMILY HH SHEIKHA FATIMA WELCOMED THE PARTICIPANTS AT THE ‘FAMILY’S ROLE IN CONSOLIDATING VALUES OF TOLERANCE’ CONFERENCE’. THIS CONFERENCE WAS ATTENDED

BY OVER 300 INTERNATIONAL FIGURES.

TOLERANCE WITH NATURE

DUBAI POLICE PLEDGED TO DIG 25 WELLS IN AFRICA, BUILD FIVE WATER NETWORKS IN MAURITANIA AND KENYA, AND DISTRIBUTE WATER IN COLLABORATION WITH CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS.

THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY ABU DHABI (EAD) CELEBRATED THE VALUES OF TOLERANCE BY TAKING PROACTIVE MEASURES TO SUPPORT EXISTING EFFORTS TO REDUCE POLLUTION AND THE CONSUMPTION OF MATERIALS HARMFUL TO THE ENVIRONMENT.

ROADS AND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY DUBAI (RTA) WILL SPONSOR THE SECOND EDITION OF THE WORLD TOLERANCE SUMMIT (WTS 2019).

GEMS SCHOOLS ARE THE FIRST IN THE COUNTRY TO ESTABLISH A ‘TOLERANCE GARDEN’.

THE ‘TOLERANCE IN SIGHT’ IS AN AWARENESS CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED BY THE NOOR DUBAI FOUNDATION AND IT AIMS TO PROVIDE MEDICAL CHECK-UPS IN DIVERSE RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS.

INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS THE GLOBAL COUNCIL FOR TOLERANCE AND PEACE RECEIVED AN INVITATION TO OPEN AN OFFICE IN CHILE, AND SIGNED A COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH CHILEAN AUTHORITIES. DURING THE OPENING OF THE WORLD TOLERANCE SUMMIT (WTS), HE SHEIKH NAHYAN MUBARAK AL NAHYAN LAUNCHED THE NATIONAL RESEARCH PROJECT OF TOLERANCE AND ALSO THE GLOBAL TOLERANCE ALLIANCE .

THE UAE EMBASSY IN MADRID ORGANISED A SEMINAR, TITLED, ‘THE CULTURE OF TOLERANCE AS A MECHANISM FOR PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE AND DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABILITY’, IN COOPERATION WITH THE AL BAYT AL ARABI FOUNDATION.

NATIONAL TOLERANCE PROGRAMME THE UAE CABINET APPROVED THE NATIONAL TOLERANCE PROGRAMME AIMING TO STRENGTHEN THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE, CONSOLIDATE THE ROLE OF FAMILY, PROMOTE TOLERANCE AMONG YOUTH, PRODUCE ENRICHING SCIENTIFIC AND CULTURAL CONTENT, AND INTEGRATE INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS.

WORLD TOLERANCE SUMMIT

MARIAM UM ESA MOSQUE

THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS WAS AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE TOLERANCE AND CREATE A SPACE FOR INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY. THE EVENT FEATURED MORE THAN 7,500 ATHLETES AND 3,000 COACHES FROM 192 COUNTRIES.

SORBONNE ABU DHABI IS SET TO HOST ‘COLLOQUIUM - ARGUMENTATION AND SOCIETY: FOR A CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE, A SPEECH WITHOUT VIOLENCE CONFERENCE’.

TOLERANCE IN SIGHT

TOLERANCE IN ORGANISATIONS

THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES

CHAPTER 5

THE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE OVER THE DUBAI CANAL WAS RENAMED BY HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AS ‘THE TOLERANCE BRIDGE’.

OVER 2,000 MINISTERS AND GOVERNMENT LEADERS AROUND THE WORLD WILL GATHER IN DUBAI TO DISCUSS THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENTS IN SPREADING TOLERANCE AND THE EFFORTS NEEDED TO FIGHT FANATICISM AND DISCRIMINATION.

HH SHEIKH MOHAMMAD BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN, CROWN PRINCE OF ABU DHABI, RENAMED THE SHEIKH MOHAMMAD BIN ZAYED MOSQUE TO ‘MARIAM, UMM EISA’ — ARABIC FOR ‘MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS’ AS A GESTURE OF COEXISTENCE.

141

HIS EXCELLENCY DR THANI BIN AHMED AL ZEYOUDI MINISTER OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT

W

hile the oil sector remains a major contributor to the UAE’s GDP, the country has pledged to pursue a strategy of economic diversification in line with its post-oil economy strategy.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) spearheads the UAE’s shift towards a green economy, guided by the UAE Green Agenda 2015-2030 and the National Climate Change Plan of the UAE 2017-2050.

Recognising the significance of bringing the private sector on board as a key driver of green growth, MOCCAE founded the Environment and Business Majlis, which aims to channel private investment into green projects. In addition, the Ministry launched the UAE Green Business Toolkit to help businesses become more eco-friendly.

MOCCAE also unveiled the Dubai Declaration on Sustainable Finance, which commits UAE-based financial institutions to supporting the country’s green economic agenda. To date, the declaration has gained 32 signatories. Building on its success, Abu

Dhabi Global Market initiated the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration, signed by 25 public and private sector entities to further advocate sustainable finance and investment.

To encourage youth globally to actively pursue green entrepreneurship, the Ministry launched the Climate Innovations Exchange (CLIX), which connects young innovators with investors and governments to implement sustainable climate change solutions. CLIX could potentially direct funding worth millions of dollars into green projects.

Finally, through launching the World Green Economy Organization, a Dubai-based international platform to develop, fund, and execute green projects worldwide that are still in the pipeline, the UAE has reinforced its credentials as a global green economy hub.

CHAPTER

6

WE BELIEVE IN

ECONOMIC

DIVERSIFICATION

THE MANY

FACETS OF DEWA By DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY (DEWA) THE DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY (DEWA) ADOPTS A FLEXIBLE STRATEGY AND IT CONTINUES TO EXPAND OPERATIONS THROUGH ITS MANY SUBSIDIARIES, CREATING POSITIVE IMPACT ACROSS INDUSTRIES. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is making considerable advances in the delivery of electricity and water services for the citizens and residents of Dubai, and is also focusing on economic diversification to ensure Dubai’s position as a global hub for trade, finance and green economy. This supports the Dubai Plan 2021 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for the emirate to become a smart and sustainable city. DEWA has pioneered in its business by diversifying its portfolio and sources of income to ensure financial sustainability.

DEWA has contributed to establishing, and has shares in institutions and companies that relate to its core business and will help achieve its strategic goals.

DEWA has created pioneering business models through effective partnerships with the private sector, using the IPP model. DEWA’s agility and resilience has played a major role in its excellence and success. DEWA has aligned itself to the UAE’s and Dubai’s strategic directions.

Our list of subsidiaries include Dubai Green Fund Investments (DGFI),Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad ESCO), Mai Dubai, Jumeirah Energy International Silicon Valley, Data Hub Integrated Solutions LLC (MORO), Empower, Shuaa Energy 1, Shuaa Energy 2, Noor Energy 1, Hassyan Energy Phase 1, innogy

currently.

International Middle East (innogy), Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence (DCCE), and DUCAB – HV. DEWA adopts a flexible strategy that is quick and efficient in responding to strategic government changes and trends. Our strategy includes the triplebottom line for sustainability. It is one of the key factors for success in strategic planning and management. We have key performance indicators, which are regularly reviewed and the management team is following up on projects within our strategy on a weekly basis. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 that was

CHAPTER 6

11,400MW

A flexible and agile government is vitally important, as it is extremely relevant to the work of organisations and tackles the challenges and rapid changes they are witnessing. This also involves knowledge management used by decisionmakers. It is important that leaders of government organisations identify the aspects of their institutional agility and analyse them in a professional manner.

Then they can identify their weaknesses and put the necessary plans in place to make both the government and its organisations flexible and agile.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

DEWA increased its installed electricity generation capacity from 1,002MW in 1990 to

key to our objectives and strategic priorities, so that by 2050, 75% of our energy in Dubai comes from clean sources. One of its pillars is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park in the world, based on the IPP model, which will generate 5,000MW by 2030.

DEWA, as a government organisation, has contributed to the success story of Dubai and the UAE by upgrading electricity and water services to very high levels. This is reflected in numerous international achievements as far as efficiency and reliability are concerned, such as DEWA increased its installed electricity generation capacity from 1,002MW in 1990 to 11,400MW currently.

DEWA’s current installed capacity is 470 million imperial gallons of desalinated water per day, compared with 66 million imperial gallons of water per day in 1992.

DEWA reduced network losses in its electricity transmission and distribution networks to 3.3 %, compared to 6 - 7% in Europe and the United States. The water losses are 6.5% compared with 15% in North America.

DEWA believes in a set of principles and rules that has reinforced its position as a flexible organisation, such as considering customers as a priority: by meeting their requirements and needs urgently with attention to identifying their expectations, as well as seeking to provide them with excellent services, with a rapid response to their complaints and suggestions.

The presence of change management is a major factor, which works to identify expected or imposed internal or external business environment change requirements, whether economic, political, social or technological.

145

HYDROGENTHE NEWCOMER By FATIMA AL-FOORA AL SHAMSI ASSISTANT UNDERSECRETARY FOR ELECTRICITY AND FUTURE ENERGY AFFAIRS, MINISTRY OF ENERGY AND INDUSTRY

RENEWABLE ENERGY PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN THE UAE’S ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DIVERSIFICATION PLANS. MS FATIMA AL-FOORA AL SHAMSI ELABORATES ON THE ROAD TOWARDS THE UAE ENERGY STRATEGY 2050 AND HIGHLIGHTS HYDROGEN AS A POTENTIAL ELEMENT WITHIN RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS.

E

conomic diversification is the key message from the leadership of the UAE to all government entities. Vision 2021 is a collection of initiatives designed to enable a diversified economy in the UAE. In the context of diversification, energy diversification has been the key focus of the work of the Ministry of Energy and Industry.

Energy fuels the UAE economy and the reliability, affordability and sustainability of energy supply, today and into the future, is pivotal for the prosperity of the nation.. Our federal and emirate-level institutions have made significant progress in transforming the energy system into one all UAE residents can count on, however, the UAE economy continues to grow and correspondingly, energy demand is increasing.. Our decisions today will impact our future homes, businesses and industries, as well as the future energy infrastructure.

We embarked on the journey by setting the long-term national energy strategy for the year 2050. Energy diversification to meet the energy trilemma of energy security, affordability and sustainability was the objective of the strategy development. In January 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of the Dubai, launched a 50% clean energy target in the capacity mix, along with a 40% demand-side reduction target. These long-term targets were based on a collective stakeholder engagement and scenario analysis process.

Multiple scenarios were created and tested, based on the ambitions towards renewables and energy efficiency. We even investigated the impact of carbon pricing. Every step of the way, feedback from the stakeholders provided guidance and this is how the fifth scenario was created.

When discussing multiple scenarios, our decision-makers posed the need for an indexing approach to understand the impacts of the various scenarios and to provide a level platform for comparison and contrast. This was the motivation behind the creation of a simple indexing approach, reflecting the objectives of the strategy development. The elements of energy security, affordability and sustainability were selected. At the same time, the UAE Government included happiness as a crucial element to policy-making. We therefore included happiness and linked it to the difference in the cost of energy production from 2013, which can impact the paying customer, as well as emissions, which can result in air pollution, as this also impacts the happiness of the nation. Across all scenarios, the 50@50 scenario was the

winning scenario; even with sensitivity analysis, the scenario was the most resilient to variations in price and GDP. The long-term targets will be reviewed every five years to ensure developments in technology are captured. Hydrogen was not considered when the analysis was performed, but today, the global outlooks include the hydrogen economy and there is more evidence of the success of this technological pathway. As noted in the report from the International Energy Agency, now is the time to scale up technologies and bring down costs to allow sources of hydrogen to become widely used across the energy, transportation, and industry sectors.

Around the world, as well as in the UAE, the higher penetration of renewables requires sector coupling to manage the variability of renewable sources, like solar and wind. Creative ideas for storage are another need for the hour.

There are proven technologies available in the market for storage, it is time to creatively pull them together to be implemented as solutions to the challenges posed by renewable energy.

In this context, the availability of hydrogen as a complementary technology is worth investigating further.

The pilot project is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North African region and will produce hydrogen from clean energy sources.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

Gulf countries are similar in terms of economic structure and we hope to have a unified GCC energy strategy to ensure the susutainable development of our people and the global strength of our economies.

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

THE PLAN WILL INCREASE THE CONTRIBUTION OF CLEAN ENERGY 25-50% BY 2050

WILL REDUCE CARBON EMISSIONS RESULTING FROM THE POWER GENERATING PROCESS BY 70%

40%

CHAPTER 6

25-50%

70%

IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY BY 40% BY THE MIDDLE OF THE CENTURY

AED

6%

700 BN SAVINGS RESULTING IN AED 700 BILLION WORTH

ANNUAL GROWTH IN DEMAND FOR ENERGY STANDS AT 6%

UAE ENERGY PLAN 2050

FACTS The UAE has been keenly following the progress of the dialogue around hydrogen within various platforms, such as the clean energy ministerial and engagements at the annual COPs. The Ministry of Energy and Industry is the UAE representative in the World Hydrogen Council chaired

by Japan.

The latest and most concrete development on hydrogen in the country is the launch of the Green Hydrogen project in Dubai. The initiative is driven by the vision of our leadership towards a sustainable and innovative green economy. The pilot project is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North African region and will produce hydrogen from clean energy sources. The theme of the upcoming Expo 2020 includes sustainability and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority is the official energy partner for the event.

The project cleverly brings together the public and private sectors to develop pathways for green economic development.

The parties involved include Siemens, DEWA and Expo 2020. The plan is to store and deploy the hydrogen produced at the facility for re-electrification in other sectors, such as transport. The intention is to showcase hydrogen-based mobility at the Expo in Dubai next year by transporting visitors to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, using the technology.

As we progress towards 2020, we will start the energy strategy review process and we will investigate the possibility of including hydrogen in the analysis. Energy diversification is fundamental to support the sustainable growth of the UAE’s economy.

ABOUT FATIMA AL-FOORA AL SHAMSI

Fatima Al-Foora Al Shamsi is the Assistant Undersecretary for Electricity and Future Energy in the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Energy and Industry, She has a rich background, ranging from electrical engineering, renewables, business development and project management to different managerial roles and she is member of the UAE Board of Climate Change and Environment, a member of the Board of Directors of the Emirate Authority for Standardization and Metrology, and Head of the Emirates National Grid Planning and Operation Committee.

147

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

IS A KEY BUILDING BLOCK OF A DIVERSIFIED AND GREEN ECONOMY By STEPHANE LE GENTIL HEAD OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY, ENGIE MIDDLE EAST, SOUTH & CENTRAL ASIA & TURKEY (MESCAT) HARNESSING THE NATION’S AMBITION TO DIVERSIFY THE ECONOMY, ENGIE DEVELOPS SOLUTIONS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE ATTAINMENT OF ENERGY CONSERVATION AND EMISSION REDUCTIONS.

ENGIE logotype_solid_BLUE_RGB 14/04/2015 24, rue Salomon de Rothschild - 92288 Suresnes - FRANCE Tél. : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 00 / Fax : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 87 Web : www.carrenoir.com

T

he UAE has been striving to diversify its economy by moving away from oil.

The country has reached diversification of its non-oil revenues of up to 70%, triggering the development of new infrastructure in the field of energy, agriculture, real estate and transport. Complementing this, Vision 2021 states that the UAE will benefit from a sustainable and diversified economy, flexible in adopting new economic models and capitalising on global economic partnerships to guarantee long-term prosperity for current and future generations.

Sustainability has always been at the heart of diversification efforts. In January 2012, Dubai launched the pioneering Green Economy initiative under the slogan: A green economy for sustainable development. The aim is to become a leader of the global sustainable economy, as a centre for the export and re-export of green products and technologies, while maintaining a sustainable environment to support long-term economic growth.

The Green Economy initiative focused on six major fields, including green energy deployment, green economy promotion, urban planning and energy efficiency, climate change management, resources rationalisation, and green technology development.

At ENGIE, we believe energy efficiency is a main building block of the new cleanenergy world. In the EU for example, 76% (i.e. three quarters!) of the emission reductions needed to meet the Paris Agreement could be reached through energy efficiency actions alone, according to the IEA report from 2016. Energy efficiency offers a multitude of benefits, including: Energy savings decrease energy bills, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of businesses and increasing the spending capacity of individuals.

Energy efficiency means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, which makes it essential in combating climate change.

Energy efficiency contributes to unlocking energy resources for export, thereby creating revenue.

Energy efficiency creates jobs.

Despite these benefits, the importance of energy efficiency is often overlooked.

Companies have an important role to play, by increasing investments in energy efficiency. Significant energy-saving opportunities, largely untapped, exist throughout the value chain.

Energy efficiency regulatory frameworks were launched in Dubai in 2014, followed

by Abu Dhabi. The Dubai Demand Side Management (DSM) Strategy was launched in 2011, with the aim of moderating the Emirate’s growing power and water demand. Since 2011, electricity consumption per capita has decreased by 14%, saving 18 billion kWh, and it is estimated 5.1 billion AED has been saved and 8 billion metric tonnes of CO2 avoided through electricity and water savings, since 2011, largely due to the DSM Strategy.

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The energy efficiency market is growing fast in the UAE and other GCC countries. The building retrofit market has grown dramatically since 2014, measured by the number of accredited companies and the number and size of projects undertaken. At the end of 2018, there were 2,500 retrofitted buildings in Dubai. The RSB has accredited 25 Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) to date on a new or renewal basis.

In this context, ENGIE wants to support both its private and public-sector customers in managing the complexities of their energy use.

Energy efficiency services are among our Group’s top priorities for development.

With the support of innovative digital technologies, ENGIE designs, implements and operates solutions that enable customers to achieve their goals of conserving energy, reducing costs and greenhouse gas emissions. ENGIE is developing this business in the region and internationally through a range of energy services subsidiaries, including ENGIE Cofely, Smart4Power, and TRACTEBEL Engineering, which are registered in the UAE and other GCC countries.. ENGIE is also committed to improving the efficiency of its own fleet of infrastructure assets including power and desalinated water generation and district cooling networks.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

SMART4POWER ENERGY PERFORMANCE CONTRACT WITH DUBAI AIRPORTS

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In 2018, Smart4Power started an ESCO contract with Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad ESCO), a company owned by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), for the retrofitting of Terminals 1, 2 and 3 of Dubai International Airport (DXB). The agreement supports the DSM Strategy to reduce electricity and water demand by 30% by 2030.

The partnership with Siemens and Smart4Power includes the implementation of energy conservation measures across various areas within the airport. These have been installed over a period of 18 months. The project guarantees a total amount of savings of US$57m (AED209m) over a period of seven

years. Since air conditioning and ventilation is one of the major energy consumers in the region and specifically, in the airport, Smart4Power has focused its efforts on optimising the efficiency of the cooling systems within the airport.

Ali Al Jassim, CEO of Etihad ESCO, said: “The new partnership with Siemens and Smart4Power for a retrofitting programme at Dubai International Airport terminals further accelerates our journey towards achieving 30% energy demand reduction by 2030 in Dubai.

Etihad ESCO is currently retrofitting over 30,000 buildings in the emirate to ensure energy efficiency and manage rising energy demand.�

Energy Efficiency is the most obvious thing to do to reduce emissions, but it is also a complex task. We are pleased to help our Middle East clients achieve significant energy and cost savings thanks to the work of our two dedicated entities, ENGIE Cofely and Smart4Power.

About STEPHANE LE GENTIL Stephane le Gentil heads the energy efficiency activities of ENGIE in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Turkey since January 2018. Prior to this, Stephane was CEO at Wattaqa, which he founded in November 2016 to provide strategic consultancy & advisory in energy efficiency and energy services (ESCO) in the Middle East. In parallel to these activities, Stephane became the CEO of the Clean Energy Business Council during the second half of 2017, promoting the development of clean energy in the MENA region.

In 2013, Stephane came to the UAE to create Etihad ESCO, the Dubai Government Super ESCO in charge of retrofitting 30,000 buildings in Dubai. He held this role for three years. Before that, he spent many years at a leading Fortune 500 company, building their European energy services. Stephane is a member of the Strategic Advisory Board of Efficiency Valuation Organization (EVO) and past Chairman of the European Association of Energy Service Companies, eu-ESCO.

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SOLAR ENERGY:

THE SHAPING OF A NEW AND MORE SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC PARADIGM By MARTINE MAMLOUK SECRETARY GENERAL, MIDDLE EAST SOLAR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (MESIA); HIGH-LEVEL ADVISOR PROSPECTIVE AND STAKEHOLDERS’ MANAGEMENT, ENGIE MIDDLE EAST, SOUTH & CENTRAL ASIA & TURKEY (MESCAT) SOLAR ENERGY IS NO LONGER A NOVELTY. AS IT BECOMES MAINSTREAM, IT IS AN ENABLER OF WIDE ENERGY TRANSITION, AND ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION, CREATING LOCAL JOBS AND CAPACITY BUILDING, OPENING NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND TRIGGERING TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE.

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olar energy has been gaining momentum for some time now. The renewable energy objectives of most GCC countries, the UAE in particular, have been substantially increased: e.g. UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050, launched in 2017, aims to increase the contribution of clean energy in the total energy mix to 50% by 2050 while reducing the carbon footprint of power generation by 70%. In this context, solar is the prevalent source of clean power in the energy outlook of the region and initial important capacities have already been commissioned.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the United Arab Emirates hosts close to 79% of the installed solar PV capacity in the GCC. The nation has managed to attract low-cost solar PV projects without offering subsidies. PV and CSP together provide 94% of installed capacity presently and almost 91% of the project pipeline in the GCC. The Business Monitor International’s Q1 2019 report indicates UAE solar generation rose from 1.25 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2018 to 4.76 TWh in 2019 and should attain 13.66 TWh in 2028. This includes contributions from the fourth and fifth phase of the Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, possibly an additional 6 GW in Abu Dhabi around 2025 after Noor II and Al Dhafra, at least 300MW in the Northern Emirates, and finally, the skyrocketing solar rooftop capacity in all emirates.

The competitiveness of solar energy continues to increase and has made solar a key source of power that will provide the UAE and the region with increased flexibility to face growing electricity demand. Since 2009, the cost of solar energy

© Photo by Ghadir Shaar

generation has dropped significantly.

This trend is set to persist, being supported by the steady improvement of storage technologies and their sustained cost decrease. Storage is the ideal companion for solar in overcoming the challenge of intermittency and ensuring the adequacy of solar energy for a wide range of power needs.

Solar energy is no longer the monopoly of utilities; distributed generation through solar energy is now being deployed across many segments.

With Dubai and Abu Dhabi solar rooftop programmes, decentralised solar energy production is picking up, providing residential and commercial buildings and industries with increasingly cost-effective and reliable energy supply solutions. Availability of energy will no longer be an obstacle to economic growth. As demand of energy grows, distributed energy systems can bring fast, adjusted solutions. Distributed generation is no more limited to uses in remote locations such as desert, island or mountain areas of the region. It is already playing an increasingly important role in the on-grid environment and in cities.

Solar energy is also enabling decarbonisation of end uses, in particular, for the sectors with the highest electricity consumption. With power generated by solar energy, clean desalination, clean district cooking, electrification of transport, clean EV charging, etc. are in reach. The range of

LARGER ECONOMIC BENEFITS ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION As solar energy capacity and its share in energy production is growing, it is also becoming a major driver of job creation and economic diversification.

With numerous projects under development, a local solar industry is emerging. Improvement in skills and expertise is happening at all stages, from project development to construction, to equipment manufacturing, connectivity to the grid, rooftop installation and maintenance activities.

A wide range of international and local companies are already involved. A quick look at the long list of MESIA members illustrates the diversity of the solar industry in the region: 28 component manufacturers, nine component suppliers, component agents or distributors, 13 consultancies, project managers, technical advisors, two investors lenders funds, six law firms, 19 project developers, 20 solar EPCs, integrators, and subcontractors. The entire value chain of solar is now covered by experts with a base in the UAE. Looking at local production, over the last 10 years, the UAE has seen the development of several companies active in the manufacturing of solar components, with one PV module manufacturing company in Dubai and a solar-cell manufacturer located in Fujairah, amongst others. The Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone houses manufacturers of ultra-thin double glass and frameless PV modules.

MESIA is expecting an increase in local manufacturing and stocking of components, as well as growth in robotics. Attention to operation and maintenance, such as smart analytics platforms to help optimise the performance of plants, is also occuring.

In an IRENA report from November 2018 on Evaluating Renewable Energy Manufacturing Potential in the Arab Region , the organisation stated, “the UAE has extensive experience in oil and gas and chemical processes, namely, piping, tanks, vessels, control. In turn, this could be useful for CSP projects, especially in disciplines related to fluid and steam. Transformers, cables and other components are already locally manufactured.”. Hence, according to the Agency, possibly, more than 30% of the components for CSP plants could be locally manufactured!

As a result of this ongoing transformation, solar technologies could, under IRENA projections, account for 89% of renewable energy jobs in the region by 2030. In the UAE, the government expects more than 90,000 jobs in renewable energy to be created by 2030.

SAVINGS Along with the above-mentioned impact of the solar industry on the economy through employment and economic diversification, solar energy has a direct positive impact on national budgets, thanks to the savings it generates by offsetting the use of fossil fuels. For instance, it is expected that by 2050, the UAE will have invested approximately US$150 billion in renewable energy, saving the country US$192 billion through reducing dependence on gas subsidies.

THE PATH FOR THE FUTURE: GREEN HYDROGEN BROADENING THE HORIZON Perspectives for green hydrogen production, usage and storage based on solar energy will open wider economic opportunities and contribute to decarbonisation of traditional important users of grey hydrogen, such as petrochemical industries. More importantly, it may create new energy export capabilities and trade perspectives in the future for the traditional oil

and gas producing countries. It will possibly enable GCC countries to move from fossil fuel export to renewable energy export.

A COMBINATION OF KEY FACTORS IS REQUIRED FOR CONTINUED ADOPTION OF SOLAR Further progress in storage, combined with cost decreases and growing investor confidence, will play a decisive role in the coming years in allowing solar energy to have a stronger impact on economic diversification, growth and sustainability. With that said, reliability of PPAs and tariffs will be equally important to keep the pace going, as experience around the world shows. Moreover, further reform of utility tariffs and incentive schemes for self-generators, as well as long-term policies to facilitate investment, will be key to improve the playing field.

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Technological innovation is behind many of these evolutions and solar energy is an important contributor to the increasing and diverse efforts of R&D in energy transition. From this point of view, the remarkable Solar Impulse adventure, the plane that in 2016 flew around the globe exclusively powered by solar energy, has paved the way for more ambitious initiatives that will bring profound technological, environmental and societal change.

Moreover, there are several solar panel and inverter manufacturers based in Dubai.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

impact is almost infinite; solar energy provides clean power for cities’ street lighting or steam, and pumping for industry and agriculture. Moreover, construction wil l further integrate solar-power generation component in its structures, beyond rooftops, from glass to thin film or integrated PV concrete solutions.

Overall, there is likely to be increased regulation to secure consumer trust as solar energy becomes more the “new kid on the block”.

Finally, one cannot talk about the contribution of solar industry in economic diversification without underlining that its impact allows the urgently needed change of paradigm and is tightly linked with the development of decisive environmental and climate change policies in the UAE, with it opening new horizons to the region.

About MARTINE MAMLOUK Martine Mamlouk is Secretary General of MESIA and HighLevel Advisor Prospective and Stakeholders’ Management at ENGIE MESCAT. She previously served at the French Embassy to the UAE, where she was Deputy Permanent Representative of France to IRENA, involved in the preparation of COP21 and developing partnerships with the UAE on sustainable development.

She combines extensive governmental experience in international affairs, management of projects and programmes, evaluation of policies and auditing at Cour Des Comptes.

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THE SCIENCE SECTOR IS A

PATHWAY TO ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION By MARWAN ABDULAZIZ JANAHI MANAGING DIRECTOR, DUBAI SCIENCE PARK; CHAIRING MEMBER, PHARMACEUTICALS AND MEDICAL EQUIPMENT TASKFORCE OF THE DUBAI INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY 2030

DRIVING ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION BY SUPPORTING THE SCIENCE SECTOR IS A KEY MANDATE OF DUBAI SCIENCE PARK.

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conomic diversification has been a pillar of the UAE’s development strategy since the 19th century. The UAE has traditionally favoured this approach as it reduces the risk of high economic concentration that makes any economy vulnerable to external events. In other words, diversification can improve the performance of the economy and minimise its volatility. In fact, overall volatility and the ensuing spillover effect can actually be limited through the diversification of high-value-added production, as well as an increase in exports of quality goods and services. Equally important is its crucial role in advancing sustainable development and creating job opportunities for a rapidly growing local workforce.

In recent years, several socioeconomic and geopolitical factors have pushed this economic model to the forefront. The nation’s roadmap to a wholly diversified and sustainable economy was laid out in the UAE Vision 2021 strategy, which placed primary importance on innovation and knowledge as the key drivers. The science sector, with its broad range of innovative industries, was, and remains, a focal point of the UAE’s diversification plans, as it is among the most dynamic areas of the country’s economy and a key contributor in developing a thriving, oil-independent future. Healthcare and sustainability-focused industries show particular promise.

According to a report by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dubai’s healthcare sector currently accounts for almost 6% of the emirate’s non-oil gross domestic product, and its value is projected to increase to AED 103 billion by 2021. This growth is a result of significant government investment. The UAE Cabinet has been increasing spending on healthcare and in 2018, it announced it would be allocating AED 4.40 billion from the 2019 federal budget to the industry. These investments have paid off. Bloomberg’s 2018 Healthcare Efficiency Index ranked the country 10th worldwide, recognising the UAE’s concerted efforts to boost its healthcare sector.

aimed at boosting this number already underway, the UAE’s economic diversification drive is well on track to achieve a more holistic future for all.

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Even more encouraging is the fact that rather than growing complacent, health businesses in the region seem more invested in global excellence than ever before.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

Over the past 10 years, the country has witnessed a rise in the demand for healthcare services and sustainable solutions, spurred on by population growth and the government’s endeavours to create investor-friendly environments.

Similarly, the UAE’s sustainability industry is poised for rapid growth, driven by research, innovation and technology. In 2017, the UAE was the second-largest investor in the renewable energy sector, investing AED8 billion (US$2.2 billion).

Over the past 10 years, the country has witnessed a rise in the demand for healthcare services and sustainable solutions, spurred on by population growth and the government’s endeavours to create investor-friendly environments. Understanding the immense potential of the local science sector, Dubai Science Park (DSP) has been entrusted by the government to provide the necessary framework for the sector to grow. The intention is to build a holistic community that meets the needs of businesses in the science, energy and environmental sectors and provides support to scientific research, creativity and innovation. The community plays a significant role in building a sustainable and self-sufficient future for the UAE that maximises the use of local resources and talent.

As an industry enabler, DSP works and engages with key players from the government, academia, and business. This daily interaction with stakeholders has put DSP in a unique position to facilitate transactions between the private and public sectors. Backed by a broad mandate, DSP is able to advance the UAE’s economic diversification strategy by enhancing the ease of doing business and implementing best-practice solutions that protect the interests of all companies – from multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The goal is to show international companies that the UAE is a perfect base from which to access business opportunities across the region, while encouraging local business and talent growth.

With over 70% of the Federal Government’s income derived from non-oil industries today, and multiple initiatives

About MARWAN ABDULAZIZ JANAHI Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi is the Managing Director of Dubai Science Park, a vibrant and holistic science-focussed community dedicated to serving entrepreneurs, SMEs and multinational enterprises operating in the life sciences, energy and environment sectors. Dubai Science Park is a member of the TECOM Group.

Janahi has played an instrumental role in establishing Dubai Science Park as the region’s leading community for scientific research and innovation, attracting more than 350 companies and strengthening partnerships among corporations, universities, and communities.

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HOW THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION

CAN DRIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH By DUBAI FUTURE FOUNDATION (DFF)

IN APRIL 2019, THE UAE GOVERNMENT IN COOPERATION WITH THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM (WEF) INAUGURATED THE CENTRE FOR THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION IN THE UAE, WHICH WILL FOCUS ON DEVELOPING TECH-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS TO FUTURE CHALLENGES.

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he UAE Centennial 2071 lists a diversified knowledge economy as one of its main pillars. The plan aims to make the UAE’s economy more competitive and rank it as one of the best economies worldwide through an increase of productivity and investment, in addition to investment in scientific research. Current non-oil activities make up 1.7% of the GDP growth rate (2018) and this will continue to grow. Innovation departments have been added to public and private sectors across the UAE, mandated to re-think the future of their industry and foster R&D to accelerate progress towards the 2071 future.

R&D has continued to increase within the public and private sector, as well as academia. The government has invested heavily in technological advancements, implementing local and federal strategies for blockchain strategy, the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the newly announced national 10-year plan for AI. Each of these strategies looks to utilise technology for increased efficiency, transparency and effectiveness in both the public and private sectors.

In the course of delivering the 2071 strategy, a global discussion around governance has also been brewing.

From Facebook data scandals to Bitcoin price crashes, it is increasingly clear that technology requires regulations to ensure it is used ethically and responsibly. With this in mind, the UAE Government, signed a collaboration

with the World Economic Forum (WEF) at Davos 2019, to launch the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution UAE (C4IR UAE).

The first affiliate of WEF’s Centre in San Francisco, the UAE’s Centre – run by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) – has been tasked to focus on three key 4IR focus areas: AI and Machine Learning, Blockchain and Distributed Ledger, and Precision Medicine. Each of these fields is key to the UAE’s economic growth, but currently has nascent governance frameworks worldwide. These technologies all raise pressing questions around data privacy, IP ownership and cybersecurity, and it is in re-imagining these areas of governance that the C4IR UAE Centre plays its role.

One of the flagship projects of C4IR UAE is Blockchain in the Supply Chain. As a key trans-shipment country, the UAE’s logistics sector is one of its biggest GDP contributors. According to BMI Research, the global logistics industry will expand to US$ 22.3 billion in 2020, indicating a 50% growth from US$ 15 billion in 2015. If the sector is to continue to thrive and attract investment, it requires a transparent and efficient approach . This has led public sector entities to turn to blockchain technologies to make data on cargo and transactions more immediately accessible.

Within the Blockchain portfolio, the Centre will work alongside WEF to develop better frameworks for

PwC estimates that AI could contribute over US$ 9 billion to the UAE economy by 2030. The UAE National AI Strategy 2031 aims for the UAE to be a leading country in AI in all sectors, including education, health, water, oil and gas, infrastructure, and government services. AI has already been used to track air pollution coming from global power plants, including carbon emissions through satellite imagery. AI has also been used to cut

costs and increase efficiency in smart factories – cutting energy bills and making factories greener. The Centre will focus primarily on ensuring that the use of AI, across all sectors, follows an ethical framework – one that the UAE can contribute to globally.

While technology-driven growth is a cornerstone of the UAE’s national policy, with this comes the need to ensure those technologies are designed with public safety, privacy and fairness in mind. The Centre, under the mandate of the Dubai Future Foundation, will work with a multi-stakeholder community to trial these frameworks and protocols, providing solutions that will not only bolster the economy, but also enhance the technology industry in the UAE.

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This trial-based approach to governance can be seen in other sectors crucial to the UAE’s economy.

For example, the healthcare sector is set for a 60% boost by 2021, and UAE clinicians are moving into the field of genomics. The Precision Medicine portfolio takes this into account,

ensuring that the frameworks developed for genomics governance will help R&D, but also participate in a universal approach to genomics that could be utilised worldwide. As the Centre works closely with WEF, frameworks developed for the UAE will become models for other nations facing similar challenges.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

blockchain deployment in the supply chain. These frameworks will be trialled and re-trialled to ensure they benefit the users – from shipping firms to federal government entities that manage the movement of goods across the UAE’s borders. Education and building awareness is key to the framework. By educating decisionmakers and project managers on the use and purpose of blockchain, the technology will be rolled out in a more efficient and accessible manner.

The first affiliate of WEF’s Centre in San Francisco, the UAE’s Centre – run by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) – has been tasked to focus on three key 4IR focus areas: AI and Machine Learning, Blockchain and Distributed Ledger, and Precision Medicine.

155

DIVERSIFYING THE ECONOMY WITH ALTERNATE

LOWER COST SOURCES OF ENERGY

By PADDY PADMANATHAN PRESIDENT AND CEO, ACWA POWER

WITH THE RAPIDLY RISING RENEWABLE ENERGY FOOTPRINT IN THE REGION, COUNTRIES LIKE THE UAE ARE ALREADY PIONEERING THE USE OF ALTERNATE SOURCES OF ENERGY, NOT ONLY AS A TOOL FOR ENERGY SECURITY THROUGH THE BROADENING OF THE ENERGY MIX, BUT ALSO TO SPUR ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BY BENEFITING FROM THE LOWER COST OF THAT ENERGY COMPARED WITH THE ENTIRELY FOSSIL FUEL DRIVEN POWER GENERATION CAPACITY OF THE PAST. THE DEPLOYMENT OF NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY CAPACITY IS ALSO BEING USED TO DIVERSIFY ECONOMIES BEYOND JUST OIL AND GAS, FIRMLY ESTABLISHING THE FOUNDATION OF A GREEN ECONOMY.

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ver the last five decades, hydrocarbons – namely oil and gas – providing both cheap energy for domestic consumption and a reliable stream of revenue through the export of those fuels, have been the driving force behind the rapid rise of GCC economies. As a consequence, we have seen sharp rises in GDP per capita and a rapidly growing population demanding better and more goods and services. The injection of highly cost-competitive renewable energy into the mix will continue to deliver the strategic advantage hydrocarbons offered in the past, by continuing to reduce the cost of energy for domestic use and liberating more of the fossil fuels previously used internally for export and for utilising in the manufacture of value-added products.

Under current plans, the region will install 7GW of new power generation capacity from renewable energy sources by 2020 (IRENA GCC Report, 2019). The UAE alone, in a span of three years, has become host to nearly 80% of installed solar photovoltaic capacity in the region. The fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park – 950MW Noor Energy 1, which is being developed by DEWA and ACWA Power – will also soon be home to the world’s largest single-site concentrated solar power (CSP) plant with molten salt storage; :a hybrid of 700 MW CSP and 250 MW PV, the first of its kind to be deployed in the world. This will deliver truly dispatachable solar energy 24 hours a day.

Moreover, the rising demand for potable water, a commodity that is alarmingly scarce in the Arabian Peninsula and which is produced through an energyintensive sea water desalination process, is another sector that will move to utilise renewable capacity. The UAE ranks second in the world, behind Saudi Arabia, in the league of the largest desalinated water producers, but to date, has been largely using the thermal process of desalination, often coupled with fossil fuel driven power generation. DEWA now plans to decouple power generation and desalinated water production, enabling the more energy efficient reverse osmosis desalination process, to be powered by cost-competitive renewable energy. DEWA proposes to increase the share of renewable energy process from the current proportion of 5.3% to 41% by 2030.

The increasing levels of utilisation of renewable energy in both electricity generation and desalinated water production hold immense potential in aiding governments to increase security of supply and reduce the cost of these two resources, which are critical for all economic activity, human endeavour and to sustain life. The resulting massive upscaling of generation and production capacity for electricity and water also presents an excellent opportunity for economic diversification.

PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENTS Economic diversification in the GCC targeted at increasing the role of the private sector in service delivery has often been hindered by the lack of smooth-flowing private sector investment opportunities. However, power and water projects in the GCC have been branded as some of the most successful Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) using concession and utility outsourcing contract models underpinned by creditworthy bulk long-term off-take commitments called Power Purchase Agreements or Water Purchase Agreements. It is these types of contracts, coupled with transparent competitive tendering processes that bring out the best of the private sector, allowing the delivery of increasingly cost-competitive renewable energy and desalinated water capacity across the region.

Indeed, it is a scrupulously transparent competitive tendering process that procured a well-balanced 950MW 35 year off-take commitment from a highly creditworthy offtaker, DEWA, that enabled ACWA Power to be the proud holders of the record for the lowest rates of unsubsidised and fully dispatchable 24-hour solar energy in the world at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park. A similar rigorous transparent competitive process by yet another highly creditworthy entitiy, the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, allowed ACWA Power to also deliver the lowest cost unsubsidised desalinated water for 950,000 cm3/day on a 25 year offtake contract at Al Taweelah, also the world’s largest seawater reverse osmosis desalination facility.

The PPP model that is now well-established across the GCC is a successful mechanism that enables GCC governments to provide reliable competitive electricity and water to their people, industry and commerce.

This can now be achieved without any significant capital commitment on their part and without taking on project completion, plant performance or ongoing operation and maintenance cost risks. Though well-structured specification of objectives, the procurement process can also be set to achieve other social, environmental and development objectives, such as localisation of technology, maximisation of local content, creation of employment opportunities for nationals, and local community development and participation, all leading to greater economic growth and social benefits beyond just the MWs of electricity and cubic metres of water.

JOB CREATION AND INDUSTRIAL GROWTH The state of a country’s economy is often a reflection of its energy independence and cost of supply, as it forms the backbone of industrialisation and the standard of living. With major investments in large-scale renewable energy projects in the UAE, tens of thousands of jobs are expected to be created in the renewable energy sphere and a knock-on effect is expected to be felt by industries that use oil and gas as feedstock and other energy-intensive processes, like manufacturing.

In the GCC alone, around 220,000 jobs are expected to be created in the renewable energy sector by 2030, at the same time saving an estimated 350,000 million barrels of oil (IRENA GCC Report, 2019).

TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFER With renewables still in nascent stages around the world, GCC states have an opportunity to diversify their economic models from traditional technology importers to incubators, innovators and subsequently, technology exporters. Innovation in green energy tech, startups and large corporates such as ACWA Power can develop vital local renewable energy expertise in the region, which can then be used as the platform to grow beyond the region into the wider world. With the geographic advantage of sitting at the gateway to Africa and the massive need for energy generation capacity to be deployed in this severely underserved continent, where over 45% of the population has no access to electricity, the UAE is well positioned to leverage its emerging renewable energy capability and its knowledge-based economy. The UAE will be able to export goods and services in renewable energy and extend its capabilities to establish truly transformative partnerships on the continent.

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DISTRIBUTED GENERATION While much focus has been on large utility scale energy generation capacity deployment, solar energy technology has also offered us the opportunity to be more efficient at delivering energy to domestic consumers via a distributed energy generation mechanism. The successful rooftop solar programme established by DEWA, which recently achieved a total of 100 MW rooftop capacity, also has the benefit of engaging and educating consumers on the subject of efficient power generation. Use of this solar energy over time will shape positive behavior.

The distributed energy deployment capability also offers the prospect of cost effective universal energy access, including far-flung remote rural areas, bringing all citizens into the modem economy. The distributed energy generation sector is also an idea platform to fuel small and medium size enterprises as they provide necessary goods and services, offering another stream of economic development.

Hydrocarbons may still be one of the most important revenue generators for the GCC states, but the future will surely be driven by green energy. The GCC has all the prerequisites to replicate its incredible hydrocarbon journey with the more sustainable renewable energy revolution and continue to contribute to the growth and development of the world by being a significant energy provider for many generations to come – just as it has with hydrocarbons. With abundant readily available renewable energy resources, success of economic diversification in the GCC will depend profoundly on the achievements made in energy transition and the enthusiastic participation of the broad spectrum of stakeholders who needed to deliver that transition.

About PADDY PADMANATHAN Paddy Padmanathan, a professional Civil Engineer with over 35 years of experience, has served ACWA Power since 2005, as the company grew from a startup to where it is today: a leading private developer, owner and operator of power generation and desalinated water production plants headquartered in Saudi Arabia. Including projects in development, the portfolio has an investment value of US$ 45 billion and can generate 30+ GW of power and produce 4.8 million m3 /day of desalinated water to be delivered on a bulk basis to state-owned utilities and industrial majors on long term off-take arrangements under the PPP, Concession and Utility Services Outsourcing contract models.

A graduate of University of Manchester, UK, Mr Padmanathan started his career as a consulting engineer, delivering infrastructure projects financed by the national treasuries and multilateral financial agencies, and moved on to develop privately financed power, water and wastewater projects in over a dozen countries. In addition to his leadership and executive responsibilities at ACWA Power, he also serves on the Board of directors of several companies, all serving the water and power sectors, and on the Board of BESIX, a Belgian Headquartered engineering and construction company operating on all five continents.

THE NAMOOS OF ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

*AL NAMOOS IS A WORD THAT IS OFTEN USED IN THE LOCAL DIALECT TO CONGRATULATE SOMEONE FOR WINNING A RACE OR COMPETITION.

By FAISAL KITTANA PROJECT OFFICER, DUBAI CARBON

THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE RENEWABLES AND CLEAN ENERGY SECTOR IS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN THE UAE’S POST-OIL ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION STRATEGY. DUBAI IS LEADING THE WAY.

On January 4, 2019, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, released the 50 Year Charter, which is considered a pledge towards enhancing the quality of life, developing the community of Dubai and ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come. The Nine Articles, which can be found on the wall of any government office throughout Dubai, will play a vital role in setting out the targets and objectives for the Dubai Government to become the namoos of economic diversification in sustainable development.

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has launched many initiatives aligned with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed that every investment in the development of clean energy sources is at the same time an investment in protecting the environment for future generations. One such initiative is the Hatta Villas project, managed by Etihad ESCO and implemented by Dubai Carbon. Within this project, 352 Emirati-owned residential villas were retrofitted with solar PV panels that provided more than 2,200 MWh of energy after one year of commissioning. The systems are expected to generate more than 35,000 MWh over the course of their lifetime. The generated energy is used on site, with surplus power exported to DEWA’s network, helping to improve energy demand management for adaptation to climate change.

The Hatta Villas project saw 352 Emiratiowned residential villas retrofitted with solar PV panels that provided more than 2,200 MWh of energy after one year of commissioning.

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In 2017, the UAE, one of the leading oil-exporting countries, launched the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which is considered the first unified energy strategy in the country based on supply and demand. The strategy aligns with the global trend of reducing dependence on depletable energy sources. The strategy’s target is to reduce the carbon footprint of power generation by 70%, saving AED 700 billion by 2050. The UAE government has pledged to invest AED 600 billion by 2050 to meet the growing energy demand and ensure sustainable growth of the country’s economy. Dubai has been taking steps towards achieving economic diversification that will not only set an example for the cities in the region, but will also portray to the world how rapidly success can emerge from the depths of sand dunes. Aiming to produce 75% of its energy requirements from clean energy sources by 2050 is a declaration of progress towards economic diversification in sustainable development.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

“W

e have worked, since the establishment of our state, to protect the environment and wildlife. We have developed regulations, legislation, programmes and projects that made the United Arab Emirates among the first states that cared for the environment and an example to be followed at the global level...These achievements should be an incentive for us, particularly the Emirati youth, the future generation... These resources are not ours alone, they also belong to our children and their children,” said the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He understood that future generations are key in ensuring the UAE becomes an example of the benefits of economic diversification in sustainable development.

The Hatta Solar Rooftop project was an important cornerstone in establishing a foundation for increasing solar energy use in residential developments. This is in line with the framework of HH Sheikh Mohammed’s comprehensive development plan for the Hatta area, launched in 2016.

Another triumph in Hatta’s development framework was announced recently – the Arabian Gulf’s first hydroelectric power station in Hatta – an AED 1.5 billion project that will benefit from water stored in the Hatta Dam. This project was recently praised by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Through innovative production methods, Dubai is strengthening the core of economic diversification. The city is growing at a rapid pace, while the world is watching. At Dubai Carbon, we act as agents of change, believing that our efforts are significant enough to echo through the rest of the region. Our work reflects the importance of energy diversification, which we hope will further drive the notion of sustainable development. We will continue to support Dubai in its path of becoming the namoos of economic diversification in sustainable development.

About FAISAL KITTANA Faisal Kittana graduated from the American University of Sharjah with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. His technical skills and theoretical grounding hold him in excellent stead when it comes to the nuts and bolts of sustainability and solar energy.

Faisal is currently the Operation and Maintenance Manager of Dubai Carbon’s solar projects.

He works simultaneously on other projects, acting as a catalyst by supporting teams with project plans and milestone tracking. He is a certified PV Associate from NABCEP, and PV Expert from DEWA.

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CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR

ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DIVERSIFICATION By ABDULLA KALBAN MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO, EMIRATES GLOBAL ALUMINIUM (EGA) EGA’S ABDULLA KALBAN ELABORATES ON THE GROWING ALUMINIUM INDUSTRY AND EXPLAINS HOW IT SERVES AS A CATALYST FOR OPPORTUNITIES IN OTHER SECTORS.

D

ecades ago, the leadership of the United Arab Emirates put the nation on a course towards economic diversification. The Rulers’ vision was to invest in sectors as diverse as tourism, infrastructure and technology, and lay the foundations for an economy that could provide opportunities to our people for generations ahead.

We all understand the reason for this; oil and gas will not last forever. Hydrocarbons are the foundation for long-term prosperity, not its permanent source. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy

Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, summarised this challenge when he asked, “In 50 years, when we might have the last barrel of oil, the question is: when it is shipped abroad, will we be sad?”

The answer to that question is a resounding “no”, because we are making good progress.

According to the latest World Trade Organization trade policy review, non-hydrocarbon sectors accounted for most of the economy in the UAE, with manufacturing contributing 9% and services adding 57%.

However, oil and gas still accounted for 34% and that means there is more work to be done before that last barrel of oil leaves our shores. The industrial sector has a key role to play now and in the future.

Our own sector, aluminium, is a good example of what can be achieved and how growth can spur further growth in a virtuous circle.

A report we commissioned late last year found that the aluminium sector generated economic activity accounting for 1.4 per cent of the entire UAE

Spent pot lining is the used inner lining of aluminium smelting pots, which is worn out and replaced every four to five years. Globally, the aluminium industry produces over 1 million tonnes of spent pot lining each year according to industry experts, and much is stored indefinitely. Outside the UAE, some spent pot lining is even sent to landfill.

Since 2010, we have been working with UAE cement companies to develop uses for this byproduct as an alternative fuel and feedstock in cement manufacturing. We now send all our spent pot lining to UAE cement companies, turning waste into economic value and delivering environmental benefits.

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EGA itself, the heart of the UAE aluminium sector, employs around 7,000 people. But our growth over the past 40 years has created opportunities, both in making products using our metal and in our supply chain

The potential for this virtuous circle is limitless, if we are creative.

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

In 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the Dubai Industrial Strategy – a year on, industrial GDP in Dubai had grown by 3.4%.

products from the plant could be supplied to other new industries.

Projects like this point the way to the future for the UAE. Our collective goal is a diversified, sustainable economy and our track record so far shows that we can achieve it.

economy and supported 60,950 UAE jobs. That means one in every 100 people working in the UAE is employed in the aluminium sector, its supply chain, or through spending of wages by the sector’s employees.

EGA itself, the heart of the UAE aluminium sector, employs around 7,000 people. But our growth over the past 40 years has created opportunities, both in making products using our metal and in our supply chain.

Amongst these sectors in the supply chain are logistics and ports. Without shipping lanes and trucking companies, we would be unable to send millions of tonnes of aluminium to more than 60 countries per year.

EGA recently launched operations at its alumina refinery in Abu Dhabi, the first in the country. When production fully ramps up, we will triple our dry bulk shipping into the UAE from 5.7 million tonnes a year to 17 million tonnes as we import bauxite for the refinery to process.

This means direct opportunity for port and shipping companies, but the expansion in capacity spurred by big projects like our alumina refinery means more opportunities for others to use this improved infrastructure too.

Projects like Al Taweelah alumina refinery also create opportunities for entirely new sectors. Just last year, we signed an agreement with Shaheen Chem Investments LLC. which paves the way for the construction by Shaheen of a chemical complex in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi. Once it starts production early next decade, Shaheen’s ethylene dichloride and caustic soda plant will supply all its caustic soda output to our Al Taweelah alumina refinery for a period of 15 years, meeting our needs for this raw material. In future, other

About ABDULLA KALBAN Abdulla Kalban has served as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of EGA since its formation through the merger of DUBAL and EMAL in 2014. He was appointed CEO of DUBAL in 2005 and President & CEO in 2008. Mr Kalban joined DUBAL as a graduate trainee in 1985.

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ANNUAL CO2 EMISSIONS PER COUNTRY MILLIONS OF TONNES OF C02, 2017

10 LARGESTEMITTING COUNTRIES

0-250 MILLIONS TONS 250.1 - 500 500.1 - 2,500 2,500.1 - 5,000 5,000.1 - 12,000

All tonnes are US short tonnes

CANADA

U.S.

TOTAL EMISSIONS:

680

5,630

PER CAPITA:

18.6

17.4

IRAN

INDIA

RUSSIA

JAPAN

878

740

2,706

1,945

1,456

10.7

9.1

2.0

13.5

11.4

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

GERMANY

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TOTAL EMISSIONS: PER CAPITA:

SAUDI ARABIA

CHINA

SOUTH KOREA

704.1

11,990

742

21.4

8.5

14.6

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HER EXCELLENCY NOURA BINT MOHAMMED AL KAABI MINISTER OF CULTURE AND KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPMENT

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he UAE stands tall in the region as a nurturing ground for attracting talent and giving them an opportunity to shape the country’s future. Inspired by the legacy of our Founding Father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, our visionary leadership has a vested interest in positioning the UAE as a hub for grooming talent, as well as providing platforms to develop their skills. This, in turn, will support the richness of the UAE’s talent pool both on regional and international levels.

At the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development and the Department of UAE Talent at the Ministry of Possibilities, our work is critical to fulfil the government’s aspirations to inspire our youth and support the emergence of a sustainable pipeline of successful leaders and pioneers, in addition to attracting the brightest minds from the region and beyond. Our talent policy plays a crucial role in providing a comprehensive support system to identify and support talented individuals in all aspects of the cultural stratum. It also aids in leveraging

our relationships with partners across government entities and the private sector in nurturing and developing their skills.

This synergy has rewarded us with an increasingly vibrant cultural scene, with the country emerging as a land for talent to shine and succeed. We have initiatives that make us all proud and showcase the depth of the UAE’s commitment to fostering talent. For instance, in a time where the relevance of musical institutions is being questioned, we have announced the launch of the country’s national orchestra, which will include homegrown and international talent, with the aim of celebrating the country’s rich musical heritage.

As we move ahead, we will continue to focus on creating a positive, stimulating environment for our talent. We will constantly turn to them to evolve our country and make it future-proof, while preserving our rich identity and culture.

Today, we take pride in being the land of talent, where the possibilities are endless.

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7

A LAND FOR

TALENT

INTERVIEW WITH

ABDULLA KALBAN

CAN YOU PROVIDE SOME EXAMPLES OF CAPACITY-BUILDING IN ACTION AT EGA?

We have already made strides in terms of global competitiveness, and the incredible pace of technological change means we can train our youth today for the jobs of tomorrow – but we also believe that industrial companies like ours must re-double their efforts to encourage young people to enter STEM careers. We have a self-interest in doing so, and an obligation to the nation.

A couple of examples of things we do at EGA include an 18- month Graduate Trainee programme, which primarily targets STEM-focussed youth. Upon completion of the programme, these Graduate Trainees go on to fill various roles within our organisation. We also run National Trainee Apprenticeship schemes for young UAE Nationals pursuing careers in technical roles.

Seven members of our Executive Committee, including myself, the Managing Director and the Chief Executive Officer, joined the business as fresh graduates. Five of us studied STEM topics, reflecting EGA’s broader focus on these disciplines as a company engaged in heavy industry.

University students on EGA scholarships come to our company at least twice during their studies to experience life in an industrial company, and we work with organisations like INJAZ to provide high schoolers with work experience opportunities.

Through our Graduate Trainee and National Trainee Apprenticeship schemes, we attract hundreds of Emirati graduates to join our 18-month training programme – primarily in STEM fields. Typically, we have about 120 graduate trainees enrolled at any given time. These trainees then go on to occupy roles within our organisation.

We also launched a national programme called ‘Engineer the Future’ to provide high school students with interactive sessions about the aluminium industry and the fundamentals of the science on which the aluminium industry is based. We believe that enriching our young generations in STEM can lead to a future that produces leaders that enable the development of homegrown technologies.

Our aim is to use programmes like these to achieve our target of 40% Emiratisation of in- focus positions, or positions that can feasibly be Emiratised, by 2020.

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At Emirates Global Aluminium, we believe that knowledge transfer and capacity-building are integral components of our business. We have focussed on the development of our people for decades, and aim to attract the most capable, providing them with opportunities to develop throughout their careers. This is essential for our own future, as well as the continued growth of the country’s modern, diversified economy, which is undergoing a major transformation from a hydrocarbon-based economy to a knowledge-based one. We are proud to play a role in building this capacity.

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WHY DO YOU FEEL THAT BUILDING CAPABILITY IN THE UAE’S WORKFORCE IS ESSENTIAL?

IS THERE ANY WORK THAT YOU DO WITH UNIVERSITIES TO HELP EQUIP OUR YOUTH WITH THE SKILLS OF THE FUTURE?

HOW DO COMPANIES IN THE UAE ENCOURAGE AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE IMPORTANCE OF STEM, AND YOUNG PEOPLE ACTUALLY MAKING CAREERS IN THESE FIELDS IN THE UAE?

EGA has developed its own technology in the UAE for more than 25 years, so we have an interest in the development of scientific research in the UAE. We work with institutions such as the Masdar Institute, the American University of Sharjah and the Higher Colleges of Technology on research projects that support various areas of our business.

Fulfilling national mandates like ‘UAE Vision 2021’ and sustaining growth will depend on the scientific and technological capabilities of national talent. In the years to come, we will need STEM-qualified personnel to stay globally competitive and combat unemployment.

Internationally, we work closely with several universities, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, on research projects that deliver practical solutions for our own needs, as well as developing the research capabilities of the nation.

We believe that enriching our young generations in STEM can lead to a future that produces leaders that enable the development of homegrown technologies.

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A LAND OF

TALENT

By THE FEDERAL YOUTH AUTHORITY

THE COUNTRY’S WISE LEADERSHIP SEES YOUTH’S INVOLVEMENT AS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN ENSURING THE PROSPERITY OF THE UAE IN THE FUTURE. INITIATIVES AIMED AT EMPOWERING YOUTH AND DEVELOPING THEIR TALENTS CONTINUE TO UNLOCK AND REALISE THEIR POTENTIAL TO STEER THE UAE TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

I

n early 2016, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, announced through a tweet that the UAE had begun the search for a talented young individual to lead youth in the UAE. Through that one simple tweet, His Highness began a movement which, wave after wave, began growing in momentum and potential.

Accordingly, in March 2016, he announced the appointment of Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui as the Minister of State for Youth Affairs; she became the world’s youngest minister at the age of 22. HH Sheikh Mohammed’s purpose was not merely to appoint a new youth minister.

His vision was to harness the unique energies and talents of youth in the UAE to propel the prosperity of his beloved land.

education, employment, stability, housing, marriage, family support, health and safety. The agenda was unique in that it was developed for youth and by youth.

Moreover, the Emirates Youth Council was established to give the UAE’s talented youth a means to advise the government in setting policies and strategies, as well as in developing initiatives focused on empowering and encouraging excellence in youth. Due to its success, this initiative spread to all emirates through Local Youth Councils, as well as to the public and private spheres through Ministerial Youth Councils and Corporate Youth Councils. Recently, Youth Councils have reached new heights through the establishment of Global Youth Councils, in which Emirati youth from across the world exercise their talents to make a positive impact in their communities.

Youth Circles were also launched to inspire sustained dialogue on societal challenges and policy matters with youths, harnessing their creativity to find innovative solutions. Topics include simplifying the process of financing for young entrepreneurs, sustaining efforts in preventing climate change and promoting STEM studies across the UAE with a focus on young women.

Moreover, Youth Hubs were developed to nurture youth talent, future leaders and innovation. Youth Hubs have designated areas, offices, and meeting halls in which young entrepreneurs, programmers, and media professionals, among others, can convene, brainstorm and develop their ideas. The Hubs include exhibition spaces for youths to showcase their projects and achievements, as well as spaces for them to access skill development opportunities. Youth Hubs include a

library and a theatre for youth events. The plan is to ensure that youth in the UAE has access to equal opportunities across every sphere.

Soon, that vision will expand with the launch of over 10 new Youth Hubs across the UAE.

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Soon after her appointment, HE Shamma organised a youth retreat to discuss important topics and issues related to the promotion and development of youth. Her Excellency also launched the National Youth Agenda, which covers all aspects required to cultivate their development — from engagement in policy-making to

Recently, Youth Councils have reached new heights through the establishment of Global Youth Councils, in which Emirati youth from across the world exercise their talents to make a positive impact in their communities.

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Her Excellency Shamma, a talented and ambitious young woman, had just begun working in private equity in an investment firm in Abu Dhabi after obtaining her postgraduate degree from Oxford University and her undergraduate degree from New York University. She was selectively chosen to showcase to all youth that their efforts and talents are needed for the UAE to achieve further and greater triumphs. Although challenging, her new role gave her a chance to use her personal talents to serve her country.

Other initiatives were developed to ensure youth has access to information and opportunities to develop knowledge and skills. For example, Youth 101 aims to provide youth with well-rounded education in UAE domestic and foreign policy, as well as burgeoning topics of tomorrow. Moreover, Youth Debates help youth develop vital skills, such as critical thinking, public speaking, teamwork, research and analysis, as well as persuasion and argumentative skills. In addition, the Emirates Youth Summer Academy provides youth with access to a range of classes and workshops, such as cooking, introductory barista classes, flower arranging, programming, and different sports activities, to help youth discover their talents and passions.

At their core, all of the initiatives aim to provide youth with opportunities to pursue their interests, develop their talents, and realise their potential. Recently, the Federal Youth Authority was formed, under the chairmanship of HE Shamma, to coordinate all activities, plans and strategies for youth under one umbrella and ensure the sustainable development of youth.

The formation of the Federal Youth Authority expresses the UAE’s continued commitment to empower youth to contribute to the development and welfare of the UAE, in line with UAE Vision 2021 and the UAE Centennial Strategy 2071, and to provide all youth an avenue that fully supports their causes and dreams.

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EMPOWERING YOUTH

THROUGH THE POWER OF DIGITAL

By IMAN AL QASIM GROUP HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR, ENOC THE FUTURE IS DIGITAL. ENOC’S IMAN AL QASIM SHARES HER OPINION ON THE IMPORTANCE OF EQUIPPING YOUTH WITH SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE.

O

ne of the findings from the 2018 Arab Youth Survey showed that over 60% of the population aged between 18 to 24 believes that the digital revolution has had a positive impact on the Middle East, viewing it as the singular-most important development that has shaped the region over the past decade.

Arab entrepreneurs are therefore turning to the tech sector as a gateway to the future. With young people increasingly studying, shopping and banking online, a lot more needs to be done to develop the digital ecosystem

so young people can convert this into a career or business opportunity.

Youth across the world are already deeply entwined with the digital economy. It is crucial that we prepare them to take advantage of this new landscape in shaping their own destinies.

The Global Education & Skills Forum (GESF) held recently in Dubai highlighted the idea that one way to prepare children for the digital future is to make sure they have a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and learn adaptive skills.

The UAE Government has spearheaded several STEM initiatives over the past few years. In fact, the UAE Vision 2021 clearly states that “Innovation, research, science and technology will form the pillars of a knowledge-based, highly productive and competitive economy, driven by entrepreneurs in a business-friendly environment where public and private sectors form effective partnerships”.

The Ministry of Education is already taking huge steps to achieve this and is increasing support for STEM and innovation education across the UAE from early school to postgraduate tertiary levels. Universities are preparing graduates with the correct skill sets, critical thinking abilities and specialised proficiency in technical areas to man the workforce of the future.

The UAE – and the wider MENA region – has a young population, which forms about 60% of the total population. Digital and tech-savvy, they are at the cusp of a new era, where digital technologies are transforming the way we live, work and play.

DEVELOPING ADVANCED DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE

It is remarkable to see a nation like the UAE that was mostly a desert five decades ago, is now a powerhouse of technology.

This would not have been possible without the zeal of the UAE leadership that has relied on the youth and their spirit.

Adoption and adaptation of new technologies, like the ongoing implementation of the 5G network by Etisalat, represents a giant leap forward by investing in futuristic technologies and smart services that enable programmers, ICT developers and tech companies to evolve rapidly.

Parents increasingly recognise this need. More than nine out of 10 parents surveyed across multiple countries by ICT giant TCS said they wanted computer science taught at their child’s school.

Employers too need to work closely with young people, IT administrators, policy makers and government bodies to recognise that there is no one size that fits all. Each organisation will need to create its own digital blueprint to empower young people to greater leadershiplevel decision making.

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Governments across the region need to understand that developing a far-sighted, bespoke digital infrastructure goes a long way in leaping into the future.

Today, it is not only the job of technology-driven companies to empower the youth, but everyone’s jobs, including parents, teachers, employers and colleagues.

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Unlike the babyboomers of the sixties and the seventies, who were able to maneuver through technological challenges by sheer grit and creativity, millennials and GenX prefer to start their careers using platforms created specifically for their age group by tech companies. That’s pretty much the norm.

So how can we unlock the power of digital technologies to truly empower youth, and prepare them for future jobs? How can we reskill young people for an era of advanced manufacturing and an Artificial Intelligence-driven industry?

WE ARE ALL IN IT TOGETHER

DEVELOPING DIGITAL AND SOFT SKILLS The digital economy is expected to grow rapidly over the next few years. By 2020, 70% of the world’s population is expected to have access to smart phones. The impact of this goes far beyond simple consumer use. Technological innovations are being developed to serve society, from digital libraries for those who can’t easily access books to LinkedIn Learning, which is an open online course website offering video courses taught by industry experts in software, creative, and business skills.

Another major aspect is the growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and the Internet of Things. The digital chasm will only widen until we bring in a young, skilled workforce to fill those roles. The next generation will be the driving force for our economies in the decades to come, so it is vital that policy makers, educational institutions and businesses work together to upskill them.

Government, academia and industry must collectively spark students’ interest in STEM, allowing them to develop the intellectual flexibility to spur on a new chapter of innovation in the 21st century.

About IMAN AL QASIM Iman Al Qasim is the HR Director of ENOC Group. Ms Al Qasim has over 16 years of experience in organisational development, talent management and acquisition, and she has worked with a number of multinational organisations across a variety of sectors. As part of the senior leadership team, Ms Al Qasim ensures continuous development of the Group’s human capital.

Prior to joining ENOC, Ms Al Qasim was Executive Director of Human Capital at Mubadala Investment Company, where she was responsible for talent acquisition, talent management and learning, human capital information systems, organisational development and performance, rewards and policy. Ms Al Qasim also held the position of Deputy Vice President at Dolphin Energy and was HR Director for General Motors Middle East.

173

ZAYED’S

GREEN LEGACY By SHAMA ALMAZROUEI ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING MAJOR, KHALIFA UNIVERSITY (KU)

NOURA ALSUWAIDI AEROSPACE ENGINEERING MAJOR, KHALIFA UNIVERSITY (KU)

DANA AL HOSANI AEROSPACE ENGINEERING MAJOR, KHALIFA UNIVERSITY (KU)

SHAMMA ALGHFELI COMPUTER ENGINEERING MAJOR, KHALIFA UNIVERSITY (KU)

AN ENVIRONMENTAL CAMPAIGN CREATED BY YOUTH TO KEEP THE VISION OF THE FOUNDING FATHER, THE LATE SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN, AN ENVIRONMENTALIST AND CONSERVATIONIST, ALIVE.

T

We started our campaign with the

A LAND FOR TALENT

The campaign was introduced under the Daejayon Eco-Exchange Programme. The Daejayon EcoExchange Programme is a Programme, which was developed

by Daejayon, a non-governmental organisation in South Korea, and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi in the UAE, and supported by Abu Dhabi Polymers Company ( Borouge).

The programme aimed to produce competent future environmentalists, strengthen the international network of students, and ensure quantitative and qualitative growth of environmental activities of university students. The outcomes of this programme include strengthening a relationship between South Korea and the UAE, especially between universities. As part of the programme, we carried out three initiatives – Green School, Green Campus, and Green World.

Our aim was to educate and increase environmental awareness by targeting different age groups in the community.

www.english.greatnature.org/

Green World initiative, in which we created a social media account , @Zayeds.green.legacy, to raise awareness about the UAE’s biodiversity on Instagram. We post about the different animals and ecosystems in the UAE. The social media account is designed to educate the audience about endangered species in the UAE and how each individual can contribute to protect them. We also engage our followers in activities such as photography and drawing competitions.

Our second initiative was Green School, where we conducted a workshop at Al Shohub Private School. A short interactive lecture and activities were carried out with around 60 students. The final initiative was Green Campus. For

this, we set up a booth at Khalifa University to raise awareness about the loss of biodiversity in the UAE and ways individuals can help by following sustainable practices. We also collected plastic bottle caps on campus, which were recycled and in return, for every 20 kilogrammes collected, a wheelchair was donated to people of determination.

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he man who turned the desert green was a man of integrity, a man of tolerance, and a man of humilityhumility. The Founding Father of the UAE Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan left a sustainability legacy behind him that we, as youth, value for the sake of saving our planet and ensuring a better future for upcoming generations. Sheikh Zayed’s devotion to environmental protection inspires us to take responsibility and conserve the land we live on. It is our duty to take care of our country and fulfil Sheikh Zayed’s vision, which is why we have created an environmental campaign. We - four Khalifa University engineering students - have created the environmental campaign, Zayed’s Green Legacy. The campaign aspires to keep Sheikh Zayed’s vision alive.

Our mission is to raise awareness about the flora and fauna in the UAE. We want to educate the community about the importance of the UAE’s biodiversity and the initiatives the country is taking to preserve the habitats of endangered species. Most importantly, we aim to give suggestions to help individuals contribute to improving the state of the environment and maintaining the country’s rich biodiversity.

Sheikh Zayed once said, “With God’s will, we shall continue to work to protect our environment and our wildlife, as did our forefathers before us”. We aim to continue building on this legacy.

Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, an educated and progressive member of the Royal Family of the UAE shares the vision of her great-grandfather, Sheikh Zayed, which is sustainable improvement of the UAE and its people. We were honored to have her support, as she stood by our initiative and inspired us, giving us ideas and opportunities to help our campaign grow.

We want to educate the community about the importance of the UAE’s biodiversity and the initiatives the country is taking to preserve the habitats of endangered species.

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A LAND FOR TALENT:

BUILDING REGIONAL TALENT CAPABILITY FOR THE FUTURE

By ENGIE

ENGIE’S EFFORTS TO DEVELOP THE LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL OF LOCAL TALENT IN THE TRANSITION TOWARDS A LOW-CARBON ECONOMY ARE HIGHLIGHTED THROUGH ITS LOCALISED PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES.

an attractive destination for a highly skilled international workforce.

Offering the best in terms of infrastructure, quality of life and outstanding education and health facilities for its many diverse residents, has served to retain and continue to attract some of the best talent from all over the globe.

ENGIE logotype_solid_BLUE_RGB 14/04/2015

24, rue Salomon de Rothschild - 92288 Suresnes - FRANCE Tél. : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 00 / Fax : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 87 Web : www.carrenoir.com

I

t has long been recognised in the UAE’s strategy for growth and economic development that it must attract the world’s brightest and most talented minds to accelerate along the path of economic diversification and to build a sustainable economy for future generations.

Under its visionary leadership, the UAE has been hugely successful in making itself

RÉFÉRENCES COULEUR

Zone de protection 1

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It is, however, equally important, if not more so, that the UAE embraces and continues to develop its own indigenous base of talent through a range of essential reforms and initiatives. To this end, its carefully

With ENGIE at the forefront of the low-carbon energy transition economy, we embrace the latest in cutting edge technology that is driving this transition. We believe our people are our greatest competitive advantage; investing in developing the skills, knowledge and expertise of our workforce will strengthen our business well into the future. Subsequently, with our longstanding commitment to the UAE, we recognise the importance of localising our business by committing to the shared journey of hiring, developing and retaining nationals.

Based on the outstanding role models that are driving the UAE forward, with its development goals as set out in Vision 2021, we, at ENGIE, recognise there is a significant amount of existing and potential leadership talent within the Emirati workforce, which we are keen to harness. To fulfill this goal, we launched our in-house Leadership Development Program for Nationals at ENGIE, purposely designed to regularly review our internal talent, identify those in our team who have the potential to move into future leadership roles, and put them on a tailored development journey to get there. The programme also helps foster a high level of engagement and commitment from the

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orchestrated dual strategy of continuing to be a destination of choice for international talent while encouraging a new breed of highly motivated and skilled Emirati talent, who are willing to embrace a shift towards future skills and alternative high-tech sectors, is essential. This is typified by the UAE’s ambitious space programme, which has seen the first Emirati astronaut reach the International Space Station, along with hosting the largest event in the region, Expo 2020, under the theme ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’.

ENGIE has designed the programme to encourage our people to look at learning as an ongoing process, one that goes beyond the classroom.

Whether it is coaching each other to overcome challenges or share success stories of key learnings that have been applied on the job or working one to one with a leadership coach to stretch capabilities, the programme sets the foundation for agile, innovative future leaders. The programme is highly interactive and focuses on developing essential leadership skills through real-time business simulations and activities, so people can understand strategic priorities and respond with innovative solutions that the business can adopt and bring to life.

A LAND FOR TALENT

We believe our people are our greatest competitive advantage; investing in developing the skills, knowledge and expertise of our workforce will strengthen our business well into the future.

participating individuals. In addition to the UAE, the programme brings talent from across the region to learn together and learn from each other.

We believe the most important learning takes place when our people are connected, collaborate with one another, and challenge the status quo.

In 2017, we launched the pilot programme with 19 nationals participating from across the GCC, who were selected through a rigorous process involving aptitude tests and formal interviews that focused on their motivation and leadership potential. In 2018, we started the second programme aimed at developing our junior professionals, preparing them to take on their first managerial roles.

Those 20 participants completed the programme in May this year. We are currently going through the selection process to identify our next cohort of future leaders as we move to launch our third programme in November 2019.

Individuals selected for the programme are considered to be our most high-potential employees who have been with ENGIE for more than a year and see their long term career journey with us. The aim is to scale up the programme in the coming years and build a strong, culturally fluent and diverse pipeline of future leaders. We will have a pipeline of leaders for whom Arabic is their first language and the UAE is their home. We see this change from our existing expatriate leadership pipeline to the creation of a more balanced pipeline with a focus on Emiratis– as a key strategic and competitive advantage as we progress towards being a leader in the low-carbon transition in the region, and globally.

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NURTURING TALENT FOR

BETTER TOMORROW By FAIZAN RAHIM TECHNICAL OFFICER, DUBAI CARBON

LAUNCHED IN 2014, THE CARBON AMBASSADOR PROGRAMME PROVIDES A PLATFORM FOR YOUNG EMIRATI TALENTS TO GAIN IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND SEEK INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES.

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limate change is not limited to a particular region, but rather, has a global effect, making it essential for countries to participate and coordinate at a global level and achieve global targets by integrating strategies, regulations and activities at the local level. Economies that act responsibly towards the environment contribute positively towards global environmental concerns.

In its capacity to contribute towards the pressing global issue of climate change, at the COP21 United Nations Climate Change Conference in December 2015, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) affirmed its plan to generate 24% of its electricity from clean energy sources by 2021. The nation laid down far-reaching targets in UAE Vision 2021 and the National Climate Change Plan for the UAE 2017-2050. By virtue of these national initiatives, the UAE is taking huge strides to encourage sustainable development in all sectors of the economy. The Green Economy initiative under the slogan: ‘A green economy for sustainable development’ was launched in January 2012 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Under this initiative, the UAE seeks to become a global hub and a successful model of the new green economy, to enhance the country’s competitiveness and sustainability and preserve its environment for future generations.

In line with the national initiatives, the government of Dubai, under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed, has penned ambitious sustainability targets through

several strategies, such as the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy (DIES) 2030, Demand Side Management 2030, and the Carbon Abatement Strategy 2021, to name a few. These strategies and initiatives have created an environment that nurtures ideas, promotes knowledge, encourages innovation and provides a framework for implementation. Such an environment has allowed several products, programmes and businesses to emerge. One such programme is the Carbon Ambassador Programme, which is managed by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and in cooperation with the Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence (Dubai Carbon).

The Carbon Ambassador Programme is a youth engagement and training programme targeting Emirati youth who wish to get involved in sustainable development, low-carbon development and the green economy. The programme offers Carbon Ambassadors diverse opportunities to interact with the corporate environment in in-house assignments and actively engage with their communities by promoting sustainable lifestyle and consumer choices. It enables the enrolled youth to consciously ideate with personal, local and global perspectives.

A LAND FOR TALENT

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Dubai Carbon has had the pleasure of being part of the programme since its inception in 2014. Launched at WETEX 2014 by Eng Waleed Salman, Chairman of Dubai Carbon, in the presence of His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director of DEWA, the programme has seen over 200 talented delegates receive training and certification at no cost and be given the opportunity to participate in events, conferences, activities, and multiple projects related to tackling the problem of climate change. Working alongside DEWA and leveraging its expertise in the area of sustainable development, Dubai Carbon has successfully contributed to creating a programme that institutionalises the transfer of knowledge in a transitioning society to ensure continuous talent development.

Each cycle of the programme comprises three modules, which are structured to train and provide hands-on exposure to the Carbon Ambassadors on specific learning areas, such as project management, sustainability, climate change, adaptation, mitigation and innovation. Throughout the various cycles of the programme, experts from Dubai Carbon have delivered training sessions on carbon accounting, LEED, energy service companies, solar power and economic principles. In unison with DEWA, Dubai Carbon has taken efforts to ensure the learnings delivered for talent development through the programme are always relevant and up to date. In line with this approach, sessions on topics, such as disruptive innovation and blockchain have also been conducted, given their growing importance in the UAE. Running the course of the whole programme is one turnkey project that requires the student teams to conceptualise, design, project-manage, and develop the project until completion, thereby allowing the Carbon Ambassadors to use their classroom knowledge to deliver a viable solution.

During the first cycle of the programme, the Carbon Ambassadors were faced with the challenge of building a self-sustainable bus stop by reusing cargo containers. With the help of the knowledge acquired during the programme, the Ambassadors were able to create innovative designs by developing a strong synergy between the built area and the surrounding environment.

Similar displays of exceptional passive designs were achieved by teams during the second cycle of the programme. During the third cycle, teams broadened the horizon of innovation by developing projects in various spheres, such as hydroponics, car-sharing, electric vehicle charging, vertical farming and CO2 capture through algae.

The creation of fully operational turnkey projects at the end of every cycle is in itself a measure of success of the programme, as Carbon Ambassadors are able to put the theoretical knowledge acquired through the training sessions to the litmus test. The Carbon Ambassador Programme has proved to be a platform that allows the transfer of knowledge and provides space to experiment with ideas. It is playing a vital role in nurturing today’s talent and providing youth with the skills to create a better and more sustainable tomorrow.

About FAIZAN RAHIM Faizan Rahim assists on projects related to waste, energy and water management, carbon accounting and capacity building. His responsibilities include project management support, developing capacity building workshops for institutions, conducting standardised experimental tests and research, and the quantification and analysis of project-related information.

Mr Rahim’s work at Dubai Carbon is heavily involved with data monitoring, computation and analysis. Prior to joining the Dubai Carbon team, he served with Diamond Developers to manage water resources in urban communities, and also as a structural engineering intern at Salama Structural Engineers.

He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the American University of Sharjah and has built on his degree with a Prince2 Practitioner Certificate in Project Management.

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GLOBAL TALENT COMPETITIVENESS INDEX 2019 ENTRTREPRENEURIAL TRENDS OF GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS ENABLE 100 90 80

770 GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE SKILLS

60

ATTRACT

50 40 30 20 10

VOACTIONAL AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

GROW

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES RETAIN

INCOME GROUP AVERAGE

UAE RANKED

19

OUT OF 125 COUNTRIES FOR ATTRACTING AND RETAINING BUSINESS TALENT

GLOBAL TALENT COMPETITIVENESS INDEX (GTCI)

ATTRACT

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EXTERNAL OPENNESS

MARKET LANDSCAPE

INTERNAL OPENNESS

BUSINESS AND LABOR LANDSCAPE

12

TH

RETAIN

VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL SKILLS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE SKILLS

FORMAL EDUCATION

SUSTAINABILITY

MID-LEVEL SKILLS

HIGH-LEVEL SKILLS

LIFELONG LEARNING

LIFESTYLE

EMPLOYABILITY

TALENT IMPACT

GROW

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ENABLE

A LAND FOR TALENT

OUTPUT

INPUT

ACCESS TO GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

3

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83.68 SCORE

81.38

TH

22 56.45

SCORE

SCORE

ND

70.59 SCORE

24

TH

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ENABLE

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181

HER EXCELLENCY DR AISHA BINT BUTTI BIN BISHR DIRECTOR GENERAL, SMART DUBAI

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he word ‘future’ has become a common sight in almost every article we read about the UAE today. This reflects the country’s ambitious direction to forecast the future, proactively plan for its challenges and opportunities, and build a better tomorrow for our people. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, championed this forward-thinking direction and said: “We must look forward and anticipate the future, so that our country can lead globally.”

With a forward-looking vision guiding his 50 years in service of the country, HH Sheikh Mohammed released the Eight Principles of Governance for Dubai. Principle Eight, which I am introducing here, is fittingly titled

“We Care about Future Generations”, as it seeks to shield the generations of tomorrow from the fluctuations of global economic cycles.

It was that precise outlook that inspired the creation of Smart Dubai, with its array of programmes and initiatives to build the bright future our leaders envisioned, bolster the economy and protect the environment future generations will live in. Ranging from emerging technology development to changes in legislation, training programmes and start-up accelerators, Smart Dubai is creating the platform to ensure future generations are well prepared to support the country in ranking first across development in all industry sectors, reaching the national goal of the UAE Centennial 2071 initiative.

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8

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

EMBEDDING THE VALUE OF

CONSERVATION IN FUTURE GENERATIONS By DUBAI ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY (DEWA)

DEWA ADOPTS A FUTURE OUTLOOK AND PIONEERING ROLE IN COLLECTIVELY TRANSFORMING MIND-SETS TO BE ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS THROUGH ACTION-ORIENTED PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES ALIGNING WITH THE DUBAI CLEAN ENERGY STRATEGY 2050.

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his chapter is especially important for Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, given its motto: for generations to come. This focuses on DEWA’s efforts to plan ahead to shape the future, along with our commitment to sustainability, to ensure that we benefit society in the future. This means our progress towards sustainability should ensure that we provide benefit for the social, economic, and environmental development of Dubai.

This complements our vision and aspirations to involve young people in the development process, according to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.. Our wise leadership not only rests hope on the young population to build a better tomorrow, but also looks to them to build a positive future, one that will define a new pathway towards sustainable development. This will contribute to achieving the objectives of the UAE Centennial 2071, which is a long-term government plan to prepare the UAE and young Emiratis for the future.

This is why DEWA is working hard to implement the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed, which aims for Dubai to produce 75% of its total power output from clean energy by 2050. One of the pivotal elements of this strategy is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This will be the largest single-site solar park in the world, and will generate 5,000MW from a range of photovoltaic and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies, with investments of up to AED 50 billion.

This model has been successful to date and has increased the pace of solar power in the region. This can be seen in the history of the solar park’s development. The 13MW photovoltaic first phase became operational in 2013. The 200MW photovoltaic second phase of the solar park was launched in March 2017. The 200MW first stage of the 800MW photovoltaic third phase became operational in May 2018.

This phase will be fully complete by 2020.

Currently, the fourth phase is underway to build the largest single-site CSP project in the world, which will generate 950MW at an investment of AED 15.78 billion. This will use photovoltaic panels, solar parabolic troughs and the tallest

The 13th Conservation Award (2017-2018) has been the most successful, reaching 27,732 students from 459 educational institutions.

Compared with previous school bills, these initiatives have resulted in savings of 34.2 gigawatt hours of electricity (GWh) and 188 million gallons of water; cutting 19,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Over the last 13 years, cumulative savings total 283 GWh, 1.698 billion gallons of water, and 152,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, equivalent to financial savings of AED 192 million.

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At the moment, the solar park has exceeded its scheduled targets to date and one of the reasons for this is the successful public-private partnership model: the Independent Power Producer. DEWA is working with specialised clean energy companies to build the various phases of the solar park. The companies build and operate the solar power plants and provide the power at pre-agreed rates to DEWA for the citizens and residents of Dubai.

These successes underlie the need to expand Dubai’s ability to produce power from clean energy.

Nonetheless, given the harsh climate in the region, it is important to limit demand growth ithrough improving technology and habits to ensure sustainable development.

The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy launched the Demand Side Management Strategy in June 2013, which aims to reduce energy and water demand by 30% by 2030. To support this, DEWA has initiated a range of projects to encourage stakeholders to be more responsible. Foremost amongst these is the Conservation Award, which has been running since 2005. It aims to encourage young people, from nursery up to school and university students, to save electricity and water. DEWA’s involvement with the Conservation Award resulted in Dubai being the first Arab city to take part in Earth Hour in its second year. DEWA’s residential initiatives include its neighbourhood campaigns and Ideal Home competition.

The 13th Conservation Award (2017-2018) has been the most successful, reaching 27,732 students from 459 educational institutions. Compared with their previous school bills, these initiatives have resulted in savings of 34.2 gigawatt hours of electricity (GWh) and 188 million gallons of water; cutting 19,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

solar power tower in the world, standing at 260 metres. It will use 70,000 heliostats and have the largest global thermal storage capacity of 15 hours; allowing for energy availability round the clock.

Plans are already in place to expand even further. DEWA has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the fifth phase, with a capacity of 900MW. It will use photovoltaic solar panels and adopt IPP and will be commissioned in stages from Q2 of 2021.

total savings of two Terawatt hours, and 7.4 billion gallons, which means combined savings of AED 1.2 billion.

Where previously there was an attitude of limitless power and water available to everyone, DEWA has changed the mindset of its customers and society, shifting from being less aware about overuse or waste of electricity and water to being much more conscious of their environmental, economic, and social impact. Given the population size, and diversity of nationalities and languages, this is a major achievement. By doing this, DEWA has become a pioneer in public engagement in the Middle East and North Africa, and is benchmarked by other regional utilities as the model to emulate, for generations to come.

From 2009 to 2018, these and other programmes have contributed to

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EXPO 2020 DUBAI IS HELPING TO ‘CREATE THE FUTURE’.

HERE’S HOW...

By NAJEEB MOHAMMED AL-ALI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EXPO 2020 DUBAI BUREAU

BEFORE, DURING AND FOR MANY YEARS AFTER THE EVENT, EXPO 2020 DUBAI WILL PROVIDE INSPIRATION, INFRASTRUCTURE AND ALMOST IMMEASURABLE POSITIVE IMPACTS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.

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t the core of our values, Expo 2020 Dubai cares about future generations. That is a crucial part of our DNA, from our theme – ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ – onwards.

In the words of His Highness Sheikh

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Expo 2020 will showcase “the best of what the human mind can achieve across cultures and races.”

Today’s generation of young people is, of course, integral in carrying forward our future. This generation is our future. Expo 2020 is designed to inspire and empower hundreds of thousands of youth in the UAE via a variety of initiatives. Their experiences at the region’s first World Expo will expose these young minds to a wealth of global culture and the latest in cutting-edge technology.

The Expo School Programme is taking the message to the nation’s children, and has to date welcomed hundreds of schools across the UAE to the Expo 2020 Dubai Visitor Centre, engaging with both students and teachers on the big ideas that will drive us forward into the future. Schoolchildren are

predicted to represent a significant slice of Expo 2020’s 25 million visits during its six-month duration.

Hundreds of Emirati university students are gaining skills and contributing to Expo 2020 thanks to the event’s internship programme.

They are working alongside and learning from Expo staff, who have collectively delivered numerous mega-events around the globe – from past World Expos to the FIFA World Cup. A number of young apprentices who completed a nine-month programme are also already employed within Expo 2020.

Expo 2020 will coincide with the UAE’s Golden Jubilee in 2021. As part of nationwide plans to foster a highly skilled, self-sufficient workforce to lead the country forward into its next 50 years and beyond, Expo 2020 has a strong focus on Emiratisation, including the Expo Generation Programme, which will fast-track 350 UAE nationals in management and leadership training before offering them pivotal roles within the Expo 2020 team.

Expo 2020’s subthemes – Opportunity,

The Opportunity Pavilion leads by example, with its concrete-free construction and entirely reusable building materials. Inside, visitors will be encouraged to think about and support the values that underpin the Sustainable Development Goals, the UN’s 17 vital steps towards a better world.

The Expo Live programme is perhaps one of the most literal iterations of the Opportunity subtheme. The Innovation Impact Grant Programme supports global innovators who are developing products and services with a social and/or environmental impact that can improve the world now and in the future.

Students are also aiding a better

Expo 2020 runs from 20 October 2020 to 10 April 2021, but when those 173 momentous days are over, the event’s positive impact will last, long after the final visitor has left the site. Its legacy will be massive for the UAE. At District 2020, more than 80% of Expo 2020’s infrastructure will live on in permanent form, including the dedicated Metro station, the huge Dubai Exhibition Centre development, the central Al Wasl Plaza and the Sustainability Pavilion, which will become a children and science centre.

More than 45,000 square metres of green spaces are spread across the development, spearheaded by Expo 2020’s two major parks, Al Forsan and Jubilee. The site will feature significant residential and mixed use areas, plus an advanced digital infrastructure, including 5G telecommunications. All Expo-built buildings transferred to this innovation district will boast at least LEED Gold Certification for sustainability, setting new standards for future developments.

From pioneering projects and ideas that will change the world for the better before, during and beyond the event, to an innovation district that will stand as a permanent legacy, there is no doubt that Expo 2020 Dubai cares deeply about future generations.

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The future of transport and the city of tomorrow are both focuses of the Mobility Pavilion, while the Sustainability Pavilion will demonstrate the dangers of current levels of human consumption and show how we can change our behaviour to create a sustainable future. This will provide a glimpse into how we achieve that sustainable future through mechanisms such as solar power generation and ingenious water collection methods.

tomorrow by realising their solutions to global problems that affect the region – their creative thinking and innovative projects are backed by Expo Live’s University Innovation Programme. The ideas unearthed and allowed to blossom by these two schemes will provide vital building blocks for generations to come.

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

Mobility and Sustainability – all have emphasis on catalysing a brighter, more sustainable future for us all, brought to life in the visitor experiences that will be presented in the three associated pavilions at the event.

The benefits to the economy are monumental, too. Siemens and Accenture, both Expo 2020 Official Premier Partners, have confirmed permanent hubs at District 2020, signalling exciting opportunities for the UAE workforce.

An EY study predicted that the Expo effect will support a total of 548,300 job-years (equivalent to an average 53,800 FTE jobs per annum) in the decade after the event closes its doors.

Over the same May 2021-December 2031 period, Expo is expected to contribute AED 62.2 billion (US$ 16.9 billion) to the UAE’s GDP. From pioneering projects and ideas that will change the world for the better before, during and beyond the event, to an innovation district that will stand as a permanent legacy, there is no doubt that Expo 2020 Dubai cares deeply about future generations. The future starts now.

Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali is the Executive Director of the Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau.

About NAJEEB MOHAMMED AL-ALI

Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali is Executive Director of the Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau, the governmental arm of Expo 2020 Dubai. The Bureau is responsible for supervising the preparation and execution of Expo 2020 and coordinating with governmental authorities to ensure the nation hosts an exceptional event.

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MBRSC EMPOWERS

EMIRATI YOUTH IN SPACE

By MOHAMMED BIN RASHID SPACE CENTRE (MBRSC)

MBRSC UNLOCKS THE SCIENTIFIC POTENTIAL OF YOUTH THROUGH ITS INITIATIVES ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO PURSUE STEM FIELDS.

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ince its establishment, the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has launched several initiatives targeting youth in the UAE to inspire them to study within STEM fields and explore careers in science and engineering. Some of these initiatives are in the form of scholarships and grants for research relevant to space sciences; others are in the form of educational outreach programmes to schools such as the MBRSC Science Event, Space Explorer Camps, scientific workshops, etc., as well as grants programmes, such as the Entaliq Scholarship Programme and the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programme.

Through these programmes and outreach initiatives, MBRSC is committed to supporting high school graduates and college students who are planning to pursue their education in STEM fields, thus helping them achieve a promising future.

THE UAE ASTRONAUT PROGRAMME The UAE leadership, represented by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, launched the UAE Astronaut Programme in 2017, to train and prepare a team of Emiratis to be sent into space on scientific missions.

The programme is supported by ICT, the funding arm of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA).

In April 2019, Hazzaa AlMansoori was selected as the prime astronaut for September 25 eight-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS), – in an announcement that will make him the first Emirati in space and the first Arab

aboard the ISS. In addition, Sultan AlNeyadi became the backup astronaut for this mission.

EMIRATES MARS MISSION – HOPE PROBE In July 2014, the UAE’s wise leadership announced the launch of the Emirates Mars Mission. This initiated work on developing the first probe from the Arab region to be sent to Mars. The Hope probe is currently being built by an Emirati team of engineers and experts in cooperation with international academic partners from the University of Colorado Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), University of California Berkeley Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL), and Arizona State University (ASU) School of Earth and Space Exploration. It will launch in mid-July 2020 to reach Mars in 2021, coinciding with the Golden Jubilee of the UAE. The UAE Space Agency (UAESA) is funding and supervising procedures and necessary details for the implementation of this project.

The probe will provide the global scientific community with a picture of the Martian atmosphere, something that is happening for the first time and will likely reveal new data about Mars.

This scientific mission to the Red Planet will place the UAE among the major scientific countries that have begun programmes to explore Mars.

To make sure youth are part of this major milestone, MBRSC has announced the return of its popular Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programme, designed to offer students of science

and engineering the opportunity to gain practical and research-based experience at distinguished space science facilities. This first-of-its-kind initiative, now in its fourth cycle, allows students to participate in ongoing research at MBRSC. Through this programme, Emirati undergraduate students can participate in groundbreaking space and planetary science research.

Furthermore, MBRSC launched EMM Science Week during the first week of July, at the Emirates Towers Youth Hub. EMM Science Week included six workshops by MBRSC’s Science team and highlighted the scientific aspect of the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) – Hope probe, and how the probe will collect data to answer key scientific questions about the Red Planet.

MARS 2117 PROGRAMME The UAE aims to build the first human settlement on Mars through the Mars 2117 Programme. The programme includes initiatives that cultivate creative and scientific research skills in students, notably Mars Science City and MBRSC’s Space Explorer Camp. The Camp offers a diverse programme including practical and theoretical activities that meet students’ passion for learning. It includes workshops focusing on soldering, 3D modeling, building on Mars, astronauts, and satellites. The Space Explorer Camp, with its spotlight on science, technology and engineering, is designed to attract the younger generation to careers in space science and therefore contributes to preparing national cadres for the space sector. The camp is held up to three times a year and targets both males and females of age groups from as early as eight to 18.

EVENTS MBRSC is committed to participating

in and hosting international conferences to promote the UAE’s position as an active player in the field of space. The UAE, represented

by MBRSC, will host the Fourth Young Professionals in Space Conference (YPS) 2019, from 4 – 6 November, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The UAE is the first Arab country to host this global conference.

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Recently, MBRSC, in cooperation with the Federal Youth Authority (FYA), adopted the logo for the first Arab and Emirati mission to the ISS on 25th September. It reflects the creativity of Emirati youth, as well as their talent and contribution to the future of the UAE and its pioneering achievements in space.

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

As an initiative of the UAE Astronaut Programme, the MBRSC held the Science in Space workshop, in conjunction with Nanoracks LLC. During the workshop, students were given the opportunity to conduct experiments that AlMansoori will implement aboard ISS, to study the impact of microgravity on the same experiences. MBRSC selected 15 from the 150 schools who applied for the competition from across the UAE.

YPS is an initiative launched by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) to bring scientists, practitioners, engineers and leaders of the space industry and agencies together in a single venue to discuss recent research breakthroughs, technical advances, existing opportunities and emerging space technologies. Hosting YPS in Dubai is part of MBRSC’s strategy to support the vision of the UAE’s leadership to develop Emirati youth to promote technical innovation and scientific research in space science and technology.

MBRSC is bringing the most prestigious space event, the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2020, to the Arab world for the first time, offering youth in the UAE and the region a chance to engage with top leaders of the space industry. The event will be held in October 2020, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

MBRSC looks forward to contributing to global efforts in ways that enrich human knowledge and support scientific development worldwide. The centre has strong ties with internationally influential organisations. It is keen to establish relationships with space agencies and the world’s most prestigious universities and faculties that specialise in space science.

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AWARDING

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

By SUQIA UAE

THE SCALE OF THE WATER CRISIS DEMANDS DIFFERENT APPROACHES THAT EXTEND BEYOND GIVING WATER. INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES CAN BE PART OF THE SOLUTION TO THE GLOBAL WATER CRISIS THROUGH THE MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM GLOBAL WATER AWARD.

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he UAE has continuously upheld the belief that investing in the generations to come is analogous to investing in prosperity.

The first steps our wise leadership took when faced with economic success in the 1970s involved improving the nation’s educational institutions, infrastructure, healthcare, environmental and tourism sectors.

As a result, the UAE has adapted to rapid changes and cultural diversity by adhering to the values of generosity, tolerance, and perseverance. When HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, announced that 2019 was to be the “The Year of Tolerance”, government organisations, communities, and individuals assembled to do their part in fulfilling the seven pillars of the ‘Year of Tolerance’ Framework.

One of the organisations working relentlessly to fulfil the leadership’s vision is the UAE Water Aid Foundation, Suqia UAE, established in 2015 under the umbrella of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives.

Suqia UAE is a non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid around the world and helps communities that suffer from water scarcity by providing them with potable water. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said, “The UAE Water Aid Foundation will not differentiate between one person and another, so are all of our humanitarian works”. Inspired by his vision and the core values of giving, by 2018, Suqia UAE had positively influenced the lives of over 9 million people in 34 countries around the world. Clean and accessible water for all is an essential part of the world we want to live in.

Suqia UAE’s goal is not limited to the provision of potable water to those in need. It also identifies how innovative and sustainable technologies can be part of the solution to the global water crisis. The scale of the water crisis demands different approaches that extend beyond giving water. This is why, in line with the UAE’s goal to become a knowledge-based economy with a strong focus on technology, R&D and innovation, HH Sheikh Mohammed launched a US$ 1 million global award to find sustainable, solar-powered solutions to water scarcity.

Suqia UAE supervises the biennial Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award, which supports

INNOVATIVE PROJECTS AWARD

INNOVATIVE INDIVIDUAL AWARD

DISTINGUISHED RESEARCHER AWARD

SMALL PROJECTS AWARD

YOUTH AWARD

The award is a platform for leading corporations, research centres, institutions and innovators from across the world to compete in finding sustainable and innovative solar-energy solutions to the problem of water scarcity. The award proved to be an astounding success during its first cycle in 2017, and 10 candidates, both local and international, were awarded. Suqia UAE believes that innovation and sustainability can be part of the solution to the global water crisis and help overcome the challenges faced in communities in need, and the award supports this concept.

The second cycle of the award introduced an additional category that adheres to international best-practice standards. This year’s challenge to applicants is the creation of a sustainable technological solution that will rely solely on solar energy to produce water that is safe for consumption. The solution must be in accordance with the World Health Organization’s guidelines for drinking water and it is required to have measurable findings and studies. There are currently three categories applicants may apply for: the Innovative Projects Award, the Innovative Individual Award, and the Innovative Research and Development Award.

The Innovative Projects Award category targets private, government, semi-government, and non-government organisations. It is divided into two sub-categories: the Small Projects Award – projects that have a capital expenditure of US$ 3 million or below – and the Large Projects Award, where the project must have a capital expenditure of over US$ 3 million.

The Innovative Research and Development Award category targets individuals and teams from academic institutions and research centres that are independent or annexed to government or semi-government organisations, which are able to produce prototyped solutions and results.

This category targets academic, research, corporate, and non-profit

The award is a platform for leading corporations, research centres, institutions and innovators from across the world to compete in finding sustainable and innovative solar-energy solutions to the problem of water scarcity.

NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AWARD

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AWARDS

institutions. It has two subcategories: the National Institutions Award for institutions based in the UAE and the International Institutions Award for institutions based internationally.

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the research and development of new and innovative technologies that can produce, desalinate or purify water using solar energy, to support the global position of the UAE in developing solutions for challenges faced by povertyand disaster-stricken communities worldwide. Hence the significance of the award, which bears the name of HH Sheikh Mohammed, who taught us that “Challenges and obstacles are not the end of the road, but a pathway to new and creative solutions”.

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

LARGE PROJECTS AWARD

INNOVATIVE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AWARD

Finally, the Innovative Individual Award is geared towards individual applicants and includes the Distinguished Researcher Award and the Youth Award. The applicant for the Distinguished Researcher Award is expected to have an extensive background in academia of at least 10 years and outstanding achievements in the sustainable use of water resources. For the Youth Award, the applicant’s age should be between 15 and 35 as they should present simple solar-powered water projects. The application submissions for the second cycle of the award closed on the 1st September 2019.

The eighth principle of governance for Dubai, unveiled by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, emphasises the value and quality of life for future generations and the importance of asset creation and protection. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, reiterated this value when he stated “We have to focus our efforts on conducting relevant studies and researches, and on drawing up suitable strategies and solutions, to come up with ways to meet future demand and preserve natural resources for the coming generations”.

The principles, the leadership of the UAE adhere to and demonstrate, have had a ripple effect on individuals, institutions, and organisations like Suqia UAE to perform to their utmost capability and follow the path of sustainability and the greater good.

191

THE FUTURE

STARTS NOW

By DR ABDULLA AL KARAM DIRECTOR GENERAL AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, KNOWLEDGE AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (KHDA)

KHDA IS ABOUT MORE THAN EDUCATION. THROUGH ITS INITIATIVES, KHDA IS COMMITTED TO THE VISION OF THE COUNTRY’S PRUDENT LEADERSHIP TO ENSURE THE SUSTAINABLE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND PROSPERITY OF FUTURE GENERATIONS.

W

e live in a young, vibrant city that thrives on innovation and change; a city with bold leadership that welcomes disruption; a city where success is determined not just by the prominence of its buildings, but by the happiness of its people. In 2019, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the Eight Principles of Governance. The eighth principle – ‘We Care about Future Generations’ – beautifully sums up how we approach our work as regulators of Dubai’s private education sector. Established in 2007, KHDA is responsible for the quality, growth and wellbeing of Dubai’s private education sector, which includes early learning centres, schools, universities and training institutes. Our work centres on ensuring that all students in Dubai have access to high-quality education. Yet we are driven by a much

Dubai school pincipals attend a wellbeing retreat in Hatta

greater purpose: to enable members of our community to prosper and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives that benefit them and others around them. Within the eighth principle of governance, HH Sheikh Mohammed states ‘We work towards maintaining a secure future, and we are focused today on ensuring the prosperity of our future generations.’

For us, the words that stand out in this statement are ‘we are focused today.’ We may be talking about future generations in future years, but our work to guarantee their prosperity starts today, and it starts with us.

In 2015, the UAE was the first country in the world to appoint a Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing. Happiness initiatives were introduced throughout government and the private sector.

Happiness was no longer an abstract concept – it was a national objective.

Sustainability, too, began to take on new significance. For our community, sustainability is not only about protecting our environment for future generations. Sustainability refers to a mindset, to living in harmony with ourselves, with others, and with nature.

It refers to a commitment to contribute to the world more than what we take and to measure our success and worth by the success and worth of those around us.

With our community, we are involved in many initiatives designed to ensure that our current and future generations prosper.

WELLBEING

Rahhal is part of 10x, a Dubai Future Foundation initiative to take Dubai 10 years into the future in just two years. Meaning traveller in Arabic, the message of Rahhal is simple: the world is a classroom, and all learning counts. Rahhal provides schools, students and parents with a supportive regulatory environment that enhances learning opportunities.

Rahhal is a fully customisable platform that enables students to take advantage of learning opportunities not available through traditional school-based education.

Rahhal recognises that for some students, the best type of learning is not academic; that schools do not and cannot provide all the learning experiences students need; that education is not linear, and that for some, detours are the best way forward.

TRUE YOU On the 50th anniversary of his leadership in Dubai Government, HH Sheikh Mohammed announced the 50 Year Charter – a blueprint to guide the progress of Dubai over the next 50 years. Included in this charter is an article designed to develop lifelong learning skills for Dubai citizens and residents, enabling them and Dubai to stay ahead in accelerating change in the world.

When fully implemented, Article 4 – known as True You – will provide a

The Dubai Future Council for Education will explore ways of enhancing the experience of education, introducing innovative educational models and enabling current and future residents to address the challenges and strengths of life to come.

REGLABS Technological innovations across industry and society are happening at great speed, yet the rate of change in the world will never again be as slow as it is today. Often, these changes leave government playing catch-up in the need to legislate and regulate. RegLab – a future-focused initiative by the government of the UAE – is designed to embrace and encourage change, and to anticipate the legislation and regulations needed to enable the country’s further prosperity.

Rahhal – KHDA’s vision for the future of learning in Dubai – was the first project to receive a licence from RegLab. Since January 2019, we have been working with federal government regulators, education providers, parents and students to build a flexible and benevolent regulatory framework that supports and recognises alternative forms of education, such as online learning, home and community schooling.

Through this licence, we will be able to create and accelerate the implementation of new regulations that will make a positive change in the present and future lives of people in Dubai and the UAE. DUBAI FUTURE COUNCIL OF EDUCATION In January 2019, inspired by the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Councils, which meet annually in Dubai, the Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

RAHHAL

Maktoum, launched the Dubai Future Councils, a platform to build the future of key sectors in Dubai over the next 50 years. The Dubai Future Council of Education will complement and further the progress made by Rahhal, True You and RegLabs. The Council takes a highly collaborative approach to improving the education experience in Dubai. Rather than simply consulting with the community, the Council is the community.

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We consider wellbeing to be a human right – not just the purpose of education, but the purpose of life. If want to change what we value in education, we have to change what we measure in education. Since 2016, we’ve been working with our community to measure the wellbeing of students, principals and teachers in Dubai. The Dubai Student Wellbeing Census, now in its second year, included nearly 100,000 students from 181 schools, making it the largest cross-cultural collection of student wellbeing data in the world. The Adults@School Wellbeing Survey measured the wellbeing of principals, teachers and adults working at schools in Dubai.

Data from both initiatives gives school leaders insights that enable them to build a culture and strategies that result in happier, more prosperous communities, now and in the future.

landscape of Dubai residents’ qualifications, skills and talents. It will be a digital portfolio that gives the government data to enact policy that will fill gaps and build strengths.

It will give organisations detailed, holistic profiles to help them recruit the most suitable people. And it will give individuals the motivation to continually improve their skills and ensure they keep up with the demands of the marketplace.

Represented alongside academics, policy-makers and regulators, the Council includes a student, a teacher and a parent living in Dubai.

The Dubai Future Council for Education will explore ways of enhancing the experience of education, introducing innovative educational models and enabling current and future residents to address the challenges and strengths of life to come.

A FUTURE PRESENT At KHDA, we see the goal ahead of us, we feel the momentum of our city behind us, and we take inspiration from the people working beside us.

By bringing together the love, commitment and optimism of our community, we can ensure that both our current and future generations prosper and bring even more prosperity to our city and our world.

ABOUT DR ABDULLA AL KARAM Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), is responsible for a wide spectrum of education in Dubai’s private sector, spanning early learning, school, and higher education and training institutes.

He is also chairman of the Dubai Future Education Council, a member of the International Positive Education Network (IPEN) advisory board and an Education Committee member of the Global Council for Happiness and Wellbeing.

193

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE:

EMPOWERING THE YOUNG

By MINISTRY OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT (MOCCAE)

IN LINE WITH THE UAE’S WISE LEADERSHIP’S CONTINUOUS INVESTMENT IN ITS YOUNG PEOPLE, MOCCAE PROMOTES YOUTH INVOLVEMENT IN CLIMATE CHANGE NEGOTIATIONS AND DRAWS ON THEIR POTENTIAL AS ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDS.

W

hen a country invests in its youth, it invests in its future. Qualified, trained and empowered young people can have a transformative and sustained impact across all spheres of development. With the youth population constituting the largest demographic in the UAE, it remains a top priority for the country’s leadership.

Young men and women are a driving force with the power to accelerate and maximise the UAE’s contribution to realising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. To ensure they are ready for and undaunted by the responsibilities ahead, the UAE has launched many initiatives to encourage youth empowerment

and engagement across all sectors of government. Some of the most notable ones include the Emirates Youth Council, the UAE Youth Ambassador Programme, and the Youth for Sustainability Programme. Each of these initiatives is set to bridge the gap between the young generation and policy makers to make sure their voices are heard in shaping the future of this nation.

The UAE’s approach has always been to trust its youth to live up to the challenge and take a major role in nation-building.

The country has some fine examples of appointing young people to positions of leadership. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of

Remarkably, young people comprise around 86% of MOCCAE staff, with some of them handling managerial and directorial responsibilities.

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

CHAPTER 8

the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was appointed Head of Dubai Police and Public Security at an early age, and later named Minister of Defense, making him the world’s youngest defense minister.

Furthermore, as part of the UAE Cabinet reshuffle in February 2016, the government appointed Her Excellency Shamma Al Mazrui, who was just 22 years old, Minister of State for Youth Affairs. Most impressively, the average age of the new ministers in the UAE Cabinet is just 38.

The UAE and its wise leadership continue to invest in the country’s youngest members and optimise their capabilities in shaping their strategies for the nation. The Mohamed Bin Zayed Majlis for Future Generations exemplifies the UAE leadership’s commitment to honing the skills of its youth to prepare them to become global citizens and leaders of tomorrow.

In line with this priority MOCCAE considers youth engagement a key component of its strategy to contribute to shaping a sustainable future and combating climate change. This thinking spurred the launch of the Emirates Youth Climate Strategy 2018-2021, which aims to develop environmental leadership skills in the younger generation and enable them to build their own future and be part of the solution to current and future environmental concerns.

Remarkably, young people comprise

around 86% of MOCCAE staff, with some of them handling managerial and directorial responsibilities. This has made it much easier to convey the environmental message to school students and undergraduates and help them turn into environmental stewards.

MOCCAE adopts a hands-on approach in stepping up environmental advocacy among the country’s young people, holding brainstorming sessions and innovation labs for them to share their views on devising relevant strategies and policies. The development of the National Climate Change Plan 2017-2050, which saw many undergraduates participate in the meetings and workshops that produced the draft plan, is a case in point.

During the 23rd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 23) in Bonn, Germany, MOCCAE launched the UAE’s Youth Climate Mentorship Programme, in collaboration with the Youth Climate Lab. In addition to bolstering youth engagement in international climate negotiations and national climate change policy development processes, the programme increases the contribution of millennials to achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement and SDGs. The UAE’s concern for youth empowerment is not confined to its borders. The nation’s efforts in driving sustainability have spanned the globe via a raft of initiatives. The

Zayed Sustainability Prize is a US$ 3 million global award in sustainability, whose 76 winners have positively impacted over 318 million lives to date. It challenges young people to develop novel projects for the greater good of their communities. The Prize has expanded its support of young people through the Global High Schools category, which rewards youth-driven projects from a greater number of regions worldwide.

Similarly, MOCCAE annually hosts another rewarding initiative, the Climate Innovations Exchange (CLIX), during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in January. CLIX offers trailblazing startups and innovators from across the globe a platform to spotlight their unconventional solutions to environmental challenges. The initiative continues to contribute to disrupting climate and sustainability action worldwide year on year, with a proven track record of facilitating successful partnerships between startups and forward-thinking investors.

The rising cadres of young environmental advocates, business professionals, decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and high-level government officials emerging in the UAE is testament to the success of these initiatives in placing the younger generation at the helm of the country’s development and of the growing awareness millennials demonstrate of their responsibility in driving the advancement of their country.

195

YOUTH-

LEADERS OF THE FUTURE

By HANY TORKY, CHIEF TECHNICAL ADVISOR OF THE KNOWLEDGE PROJECT, UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (UNDP)

TODAY, SECTORS AND INDUSTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE ARE UNDERGOING TECHNOLOGY-DRIVEN CHANGE BROUGHT BY THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION. THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW WILL NEED TO UNLOCK THE POTENTIAL OF FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES AND ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE TO ENSURE THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF GENERATIONS TO COME.

S

ince the emergence of the Internet and the rise of electronic and information technology at the dawn of the third millennium, societies have been changing rapidly and drastically. The increasing importance of knowledge, combined with globalisation and the disruptiveness of technological change that characterised the Fourth Industrial Revolution, has created a fundamentally different type of world.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (also called Industry 4.0) is unfolding before our eyes. It is the era of creative convergence, where myriad technologies that span themes such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, big data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) begin to connect, creating an ecosystem in which each technology both exploits and fosters the development of the others. This revolution creates unprecedented opportunities and challenges for businesses and societies alike. It is distinct from prior revolutions, given its intensity, complexity and scope, and it is rooted in a new technological phenomenon – digitalisation, i.e. the integration of digital technologies – that is penetrating the infrastructure of every business, organisation

and government with unprecedented speed.

When we talk about the Fourth Industrial Revolution, technological change cannot be considered in isolation. Other forces – or trends – such as globalisation, sustainability, demographic shifts and urbanisation, will also affect the state of the economy and the future of work. Therefore, if we want to understand how the future will be shaped, we need to acknowledge the interactions embedded in these trends, as they often reinforce each other.

We believe that certain types of technologies can help overcome most of the challenges associated with these trends, such as the ageing population, increasing scarcity of resources (including food shortage in developing economies) and growing inequalities.

The European Commission calls these technologies “Key

•

THE FUTURE KNOWLEDGE STRATEGY

•

THE FUTURE KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPMENT TOOLKIT

The youth – who are the leaders of the future – will need to embrace the importance of knowledge-intensive business services. Technology will increase the dependency of modern employment structures on a workforce that is up to date with recent developments in what we define in this report as key technologies for the future – AI, Cybersecurity, Biotechnology, Blockchain, etc. – and possess a good command of relevant social, emotional and cognitive skills. The leaders of tomorrow will need to redefine the necessary industries and skills required to keep pace with technological developments and develop a concrete strategy for the future that ensures sustainable growth and institutions.

The absence of such a strategy may lead to countries incurring significant opportunity costs that undermine their national welfare.

Thus, raising awareness among leaders of the strategic importance of future technologies, industries and skills will represent a critical factor in achieving sustainable growth at the global level and successfully meeting ambitious targets, such as the SDGs. The leaders of the future will function as the navigators of our societies. They will need to understand their current position, define their direction of travel and provide the required impetus to attain the requisite speed of transformation.

As of today, we have barely seen the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the implications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution for a country’s competitiveness, its citizens and the nature of its industries and companies. New technologies are changing the world as we know it, but the direction they will take remains uncertain. Will they contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and sustainable society, or on the contrary, deliver a society characterised by more inequalities, exacerbated social fragmentation and increased polarisation of ideas? Both paths are possible, and the course of transformation will greatly depend on actions taken today.

Many government leaders, companies and individuals are attempting to stay on top of the

CHAPTER 8

The results of the Future of Knowledge Foresight Report, produced by Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation and the United Nations Development Programme, demonstrate how policymakers, business leaders, education institutions, international organisations and communities should be alert to emerging topics that may become strategically significant for nations. It is reassuring that all the countries analysed in this report have initiated processes to explore emerging strategic topics. Nevertheless, turning change into opportunity requires tremendous effort. Most of the countries surveyed have yet to develop a strategy to establish the foundations for creating new knowledge opportunities for future generations. This is the goal of report, which presents a framework for building and implementing a future knowledge strategy. This framework, which we refer to as the ‘knowledge future navigation framework’, entails two components:

...raising awareness among leaders of the strategic importance of future technologies, industries and skills will represent a critical factor in achieving sustainable growth at the global level and successfully meeting ambitious targets, such as the SDGs.

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

Enabling Technologies” (KETs), and they are also commonly referred to as “exponential technologies” or “key technologies for the future.” All key technologies for the future present two principal common features.

First, together they form an ecosystem in which each technology both exploits and fosters the development of the others. In other words, the novel technologies that are being grafted onto existing and more mature technologies amplify the performance of the latter, and vice versa. Second, they enable the exponential acceleration of innovation, as each technological improvement leads to innovation, which in turn functions as a platform for further technological improvement and innovation. These technologies therefore help the development of multiple novel applications in a wide range of sectors and industries.

wave by addressing surface disruptions of technologies in the short-term, but more lasting value can come from understanding and exploiting the forces underlying them. Awareness is therefore key. All of us – leaders and citizens – should strive to detect and better anticipate the upcoming shifts in the industry and emergence of new technologies if we want to build the kind of future in which we would like to work and live. In particular, in view of the accelerating speed at which each new industrial revolution appears, those who know how to anticipate the next big change will be the ones holding the future in their hands.

The Future of Knowledge: A Foresight Report.

ABOUT HANY TORKY With over 20 years of experience in academia and development, Dr Hany Torky currently serves as Chief Technical Advisor of the Knowledge Project, United Nations Development Programme. He has overseen the production of the Arab Knowledge Index, Arab Reading Index, Global Knowledge Index and Future of Knowledge Report.

Areas of expertise include advisory services provision, delivery of lectures, supervision of research, statistical analysis, construction of indices, and modelling and simulation.

197

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATION OF

GREEN JOBS IN THE UAE

SPECIES

2018

2021

2030

Renewable Energy*

1,120

9,634

5,712

Energy efficiency

200

850

2,400

2,190

4000

7,670

Collection

7,400

(7,400)

(7,400)

Recycling

1,436

4,725

9,450

-

590

758

Wastewater

3,800

(3,800)

(3,800)

Manufacturing

3,000

3,050

3,108

Buildings and construction

2,687

2,700

2,750

Agriculture

1,270

1,520

2,270

223

370

600

Financial Services

64

70

100

Professional

450

(450)

(450)

Wholesale and retail

400

(400)

(400)

6,000

6,475

7,900

154

(154)

(154)

13,750

(13,750)

(13,750)

49,520

67,657

83,422

ENERGY

District Cooling

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Waste to Energy

Forestry Fisheries

SERVICES

Tourism Academia Public Sector TOTAL

* Without manufacturing. Construction jobs counted as up to 2018 no longer exist.

Construction jobs counted for 2021 and 2030 will also cease after completion.(): Assumed no growth due to lack of projections. **An attempt has been to include only direct jobs in each sector without accounting for the wider employment effect in the economy.

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATION OF

2030

2021

2018 27.8%

27.8% 25.5%

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

RENEWABLE ENERGY JOBS IN GCC 27.8% 25.7%

24.4% 21.4%

12.1%

12.1%

10.9%

11.4%

18.9%

12.1%

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17.7%

7.1%

PUBLIC SECTOR

WASTE MANAGEMENT

TOURISM

TRANSPORT

ENERGY

GREEN JOBS SKILL GAPS A pilot green jobs survey was undertaken in 2014 as part of Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence’s (DCCE) Green Jobs programme, where 59 companies based in Dubai responded to a questionnaire. The survey intended to obtain a general idea of skill gaps and shortages observed in the ongoing transition to a green economy. It was found that skills for green jobs fall into two categories: technical skills that are specialised in a particular area; and core skills that are generic.

CORE

SKILLS

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Language Skills

Environmental Sciences

IT

Waste Management

Coordination Skills

Manufacturing & Assembly

Networking communication & Negotiation

Environmaental Impact Assistance

Environmental Awareness

Solar PV Installation & Maintenance

Report Writing

Urban Planning

Problem Solving

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BUILDING RETROFIT

www.etihadesco.ae FINANCING & MECHANISM Etihad ESCO is a DEWA venture that was established in 2013 to make Dubai built environment a leading example of energy efficiency for the region and the world. As a Super ESCO (Energy Service Company), it enables the energy performance contracting market in Dubai by developing energy efficiency projects targeting more than 30,000 buildings.

Etihad ESCO aims to jumpstart the creation of viable performance contracting market for energy service companies by executing building retrofits, increasing penetration of district cooling, building capacity of local ESCOs for private sector and facilitating access to project finance.

The Dubai ESCOs market will provide new business opportunities for joint ventures, international partnerships as well as engage UAE national entrepreneurs through a diversified supply chain from financial institutions, technology providers and equipment manufacturers to service providers across the project development, management and reporting stages.

TAQATI

MAINTENANCE

ENERGY AUDIT

SOLAR PV

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

MEET THE PEOPLE WHO BROUGHT THIS REPORT TO LIFE

HE SAEED MOHAMMED AL TAYER Chairman of the World Green Economy Summit, Vice Chairman of Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Chairman of Dubai Carbon

ENG WALEED ALI BIN SALMAN Secretary General And Vice Chairman Of The World Green Economy Summit, Vice Chairman of Dubai Carbon, Executive Vice President for Business Development & Excellence of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)

OUR PARTNERS FROM THE WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT TEAM Saeed Ghubash Humaid Almarri, Julia Leny, Ribal Dayekh, Mosaad Saad Abdelrahman, Duaa Al Masqati

AND THE WORLD GREEN ECONOMY SUMMIT’S SPONSORS:

GER TEAM Project Management: Līga Līce da Costa Afra Alnuaimi

OUR PRODUCTION Creative Director: Josiane Sadaka Design and Artwork: Lio De Belen Printing: Rainbow Printing Industries (RPI) LLC

PHOTO CREDITS & SPECIAL THANKS Dubai Media Office for providing the photos from the launch of the UAE Ministry of Possibilities and for facilitating the use of His Highness’ Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, photos and related artwork throughout the report.

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COMPANY

PROFILES Dubai Electricity and Water Authority www.dewa.gov.ae

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority A Continuous Success Story Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) was formed on 1 January, 1992. Since then, DEWA has made considerable achievements, to be ranked as one of the best utilities in the world. DEWA provides state-of-the-art smart services and technologies to 866,990 customers, with a customer happiness rate of 97% in 2017. the UAE, represented by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has maintained its first global ranking, for the second consecutive year, with scores of 100% in all Getting Electricity indicators in the World Bank’s Doing Business 2019 report. The report measures the ease of doing business in 190 economies around the world. DEWA has achieved very competitive results in its global benchmarking, surpassing the private sector and major European and American utilities in efficiency and reliability. It has been able to raise the efficiency of energy production, using the latest technologies and adopting technological innovations, and also surpassed these utilities by reducing losses from electricity transmission and distribution networks to 3.3% compared to 6-7% in the US and Europe; and water network losses were reduced to 7.1% compared to 15% in North America. DEWA also achieved 2.68 customer minutes lost per year compared to 15 minutes in Europe. From 2006 to 2017, DEWA’s cumulative energy production efficiency increased by 28.87%.

ENOC Group

www.enoc.com

ENOC Group (Emirates National Oil Company) is a leading integrated international oil and gas player operating across the energy sector value chain. As a wholly owned entity of the Government of Dubai, and integral to the Emirate’s success, ENOC owns and operates assets in the fields of exploration & production, supply & operations, terminals, fuel retail, aviation fuel and petroleum products for commercial & industrial use.

The Group’s general business operations includes automotive services, non-fuel F&B

retail and fabrication services. Servicing thousands of customers in over 60 markets, the Group employs a workforce of over 11,000 employees and is deploying its world-class customer service, latest innovations and technologies and best practices to empower the UAE’s social and economic development.

For further information, please visit: www. enoc.com

ENGIE

www.engie.com ENGIE is a global energy player and an expert operator in the three key sectors of low-carbon power generation, global networks (power & gas) and energy services. The Group is active in around 70 countries, employs 150,000 people worldwide and achieved revenues of EUR65 billion in 2017.

ENGIE puts responsible growth at the heart of its business model to rise successfully to today’s major energy and environmental challenges: responding to the demand for energy, ensuring security of supply, combating climate change and optimising the use of resources.

As a leader in the energy transition, ENGIE is accelerating the development of its three core businesses, focussing on the decarbonization, decentralisation and digitalisation of its offerings. The Group is divesting out of its coal activities and is working towards an objective of 25% renewables in its energy mix by 2020. Today, ENGIE has an installed electricity production capacity of 108.8 GW, of which 23.7 GW is from renewables.

The development of energy services is a strate-

gic pillar of ENGIE’s response to the challenge of resource optimisation. The Group is the no.

1 energy efficiency services provider worldwide. Drawing on this global expertise, ENGIE offers customised solutions to its local customers in the field of energy efficiency, facility management, green mobility, smart cities, distributed energy solutions and district heating & cooling. Worldwide the Group operates 350 urban heating and cooling networks. In the Middle East, ENGIE owns 40% of Tabreed, the regional leader in district cooling.

ENGIE logotype_solid_BLUE_RGB 14/04/2015

24, rue Salomon de Rothschild - 92288 Suresnes - FRANCE Tél. : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 00 / Fax : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 87 Web : www.carrenoir.com

RÉFÉRENCES COULEUR

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In the GCC, ENGIE is the leading independent power & water producer with 30 GW power production and 5.9 million m3/day potable water production to support the regional economies. It is the GCC’s leading Facility Management provider and develops solutions to improve the performance & efficiency of buildings, industry, infrastructure and cities in the region.

From its regional HQ in Dubai, ENGIE continues to develop its three key activities in a geographical scope that includes the Middle East, South & Central Asia and Turkey.

203

COMPANY

PROFILES ACWA Power www.acwapower.com

ACWA Power is a developer, investor and operator of a portfolio of power generation and desalinated water production plants currently with presence in 11 countries including in the Middle East and North Africa, Southern Africa and South East Asia regions. ACWA Power’s portfolio, with an investment value in excess of US$ 30 billion, can generate 29+ GW of power and produce 3.2 million m3 /day of desalinated water to be mostly delivered on a bulk basis to state utilities and industrial majors on long term off-take contracts under Public-Private-Partnership, Concession and Utility Services Outsourcing models.

ACWA Power, registered and head-quartered in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is owned by eight Saudi conglomerates, Sanabil Direct Investment Company (owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia), the Saudi Public Pensions Agency and the International Finance Corporation (a member of the World Bank Group).

ACWA Power pursues a mission to reliably deliver electricity and desalinated water at a low cost, thereby contributing to the social and economic development of the communities and countries it invests in and serves.

ACWA Power strives to achieve success by adhering to the values of Safety, People and Performance in operating its business.

ETIHAD ESCO www.etihadesco.ae

Etihad ESCO is a DEWA venture that was established in 2013 to make Dubai built environment a leading example of energy efficiency for the region and the world. As a Super ESCO (Energy Service Company), it enables the energy performance contracting market in Dubai by developing energy efficiency projects targeting more than 30,000 buildings. Etihad ESCO aims to jumpstart the creation of viable performance contracting market for energy service companies by executing building retrofits, increasing penetration of district cooling, building

capacity of local ESCOs for private sector and facilitating access to project finance. The Dubai ESCOs market will provide new business opportunities for joint ventures, international partnerships as well as engage UAE national entrepreneurs through a diversified supply chain from financial institutions, technology providers and equipment manufacturers to service providers across the project development, management and reporting stages.

SUQIA

www.suqia.ae

In 2014, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai launched the Suqia initiative to provide clean water to five million people worldwide. The initiative in cooperation with Emirates Red Crescent Authority, achieved remarkable success and exceeded its targets by raising over AED 180 million in 18 days, which was enough to provide clean drinking water to over 7 million people around the world.

Following the successful initiative outcomes, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai issued a law establishing Suqia UAE as a non-profit organisation in March 2015. Today, the UAE Water Aid Foundation, Suqia UAE, is an entity under the umbrella of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation, and a non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid around the world and helps

communities that suffer from water scarcity by providing them with potable water. Suqia UAE has positively influenced the lives of over 9 million people in 34 countries up to date. Suqia UAE implements its pioneering projects in cooperation with Emirates Red Crescent Authority and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, under the umbrella of the Mohammed bin Rashid Global Initiatives.

Additionally, Suqia UAE identifies innovative and sustainable solutions to water scarcity through research and development and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award. The US$ 1 million award encourages research centres, individuals and innovators from around the world to find innovative and sustainable solutions for clean-water scarcity around the world, using solar power.

205

FEWA

www.fewa.gov.ae

Federal Electricity & Water Authority (FEWA) was established in 1999 under the Federal Law No. 31 of 1999 to carry out the duties assigned by Ministry of Electricity and Water in achieving several objectives. Its main objective is to cater the needs of electricity and potable water for the population of the Northern Emirates.

FEWA’s mission is to provide world-class electricity and water services, whilst developing the necessary infrastructure, to fulfil the growing demand in the emirates under their jurisdiction and to rationalise the usage of electricity and water to promote sustainable

development. To achieve this main objective, FEWA aims to create a balance between the cost of production and the distribution price in consideration with unifying the existing variable pricing strategies, study the consumption behaviours and create awareness to overcome the waste of electricity and water by consumers. They also aspire to provide qualifications and trainings to the citizens enabling them to work in FEWA.

DUBAI SCIENCE PARK www.dsp.ae

Founded in 2005, Dubai Science Park (DSP) is a vibrant, holistic community dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, SMEs and MNEs active in the sciences, energy and environmental sectors. With its ample office and laboratory space and robust infrastructure, DSP has created an enabling science-focused ecosystem that is home to more than 350 companies, employing over 3,700 professionals.

Through fostering growth, creativity, research and innovation in the areas of human science, plant science, material science, environmental science and energy science, DSP aims to play a significant role in facilitating a more sustainable and self-sufficient future that maximises the use of indigenous resources and talent.

EGA

www.ega.ae

Emirates Global Aluminium is one of the world’s largest ‘premium aluminium’ producers and the biggest industrial company in the United Arab Emirates outside oil and gas. EGA employs more than 8,000 people and supplies customers in more than 60 countries.

The development of EGA since the 1970s has taken the UAE from no aluminium production to the fifth

largest aluminium-producing country in the world.

EGA produces four per cent of the world’s aluminium.

At home, EGA is the foundation and heart of a broader aluminium sector which is the largest employer amongst the UAE’s energy-intensive industries. EGA’s operations at Al Taweelah in Abu Dhabi and Jebel Ali in Dubai are some of the largest industrial sites in the country.

GER 2020 INFOGRAPHIC

SOURCES HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM

MAY 2013

18 SEPTEMBER 2017

APRIL 2016

DUBAI’S TOURISM VISION FOR 2020

A TIMELINE OF ACHIEVEMENTS

AN E-LEARNING PROJECT TO PROVIDE FREE ONLINE EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL FOR MORE THAN 50 MILLION STUDENTS IN THE ARAB WORLD

DUBAI AUTONOMOUS TRANSPORTATION STRATEGY

APRIL 2016

JANUARY 2014

DUBAI 3D PRINTING STRATEGY

THE UNION IS THE FOUNDATION

UAE NATIONAL AGENDA

OCTOBER 2017

UAE STRATEGY FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

MAY 2016

NATIONAL LITERACY STRATEGY

OCTOBER 2014

NATIONAL INNOVATION STRATEGY

JUNE 2016

NATIONAL TOLERANCE PROGRAMME

DECEMBER 2014

DUBAI PLAN 2021

OCTOBER 2017

DUBAI INTERNET OF THINGS STRATEGY

JUNE 2016

DUBAI INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY 2030

FEBRUARY 2018

UAE GENDER BALANCE COUNCIL

0

201

MAY 2011 GOVERNMENT.AE

SEPTEMBER 2016

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE UAE STRATEGY FOR THE FUTURE

JANUARY 2012

UAE WATER AID

OCTOBER 2016

UAE NATIONAL YOUTH AGENDA AND STRATEGY

11 JULY 2015

APRIL 2018

LAW FOR ESTABLISHING MOHAMMAD BIN RASHID SPACE CENTRE

NOVEMBER 2018

OCTOBER 2015

HE NATIONAL POLICY FOR EMPOWERING PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION

MOBILE GOVERNMENT

MOHAMMAD BIN RASHID INITIATIVE FOR SMART LEARNING FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

MARCH 2019

UAE NATIONAL SPACE STRATEGY 2030

APRIL 2017

NOVEMBER 2015

NATIONAL ADVANCED SCIENCE AGENDA 2031

UAE ENERGY STRATEGY 2050

22 SEPTEMBER 2012

UAE CENTENNIAL 2071

APRIL 2017

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM GLOBAL INITIATIVES

FEBRUARY 2012

DUBAI BLOCKCHAIN STRATEGY 2021

APRIL 2017

UAE NATIONAL SPACE PROGRAMME

JANUARY 2012

UAE GREEN GROWTH STRATEGY

APRIL 2018

NATIONAL ADVANCED SCIENCES AGENDA 2031

MARCH 2015

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE LAUNCH OF MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM SOLAR PARK

CHAPTER 1

DUBAI INTERNET OF THINGS STRATEGY

FEBRUARY 2015

NOVEMBER 2015

APRIL 2019

DUBAI CLEAN ENERGY STRATEGY

MINISTRY OF POSSIBILITIES

23 JUNE 2017

HUMANITARIAN ACCELERATORS

JANUARY 2016

DUBAI HEALTH STRATEGY 2021

60

00

19

1960

1968 APPOINTED HEAD OF DUBAI POLICE AND PUBLIC SECURITY

JANUARY 1995 APPOINTED CROWN PRINCE OF DUBAI

UAE GOVERNMENT STRATEGY PLAN

20

1990

JUNE 2019

NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR WELLBEING 2031

SEPTEMBER 2017

THE UAE WATER SECURITY STRATEGY 2036

APRIL 2007

JUNE 2019

APPROVAL OF PLANS FOR A NEW ADVANCED SKILLS STRATEGY

MAY 2007

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM KNOWLEDGE FOUNDATION

SEPTEMBER 2007

DUBAI CARES

HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM. TIMELINE OF ACHIEVEMENTS. • Sheikhmohammed.ae • His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Launches Dubai Industrial Strategy - Dubai Holding Website, dubaiholding.com • Mohammed bin Rashid, Mohamed bin Zayed attend launch of seven national strategies on UAE Centennial 2071, www.dmi.gov.ae • government.ae • mbrch.gov.ae • www.almaktouminitiatives.org • Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park - a leading project that promotes sustainability in the UAE, www.dewa.gov.ae

SEPTEMBER 2008

OCTOBER 2000

28 JUNE 2009 DUBAI 2020

1998 THE SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

4 JANUARY 2006 JANUARY 2001

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT

JANUARY 2001

1997 MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM HUMANITARIAN & CHARITY ESTABLISHMENT

APPOINTED RULER OF DUBAI

2005

5 JANUARY 2006 ELECTED AS VICE PRESIDENT BY THE UAE SUPREME COUNCIL

1999 THE ARAB JOURNALISM AWARD

9 SEPTEMBER 2009 DUBAI METRO

9 FEBRUARY 2006 NEW UAE CABINET

18 DECEMBER 2006

FIRST EVER FEDERAL NATIONAL COUNCIL (FNC) ELECTIONS

65

THE YEAR OF TOLERANCE

INITIATIVES

FACT SHEET

MINISTRY OF TOLERANCE

WE NEED TO STUDY, TEACH, AND PRACTICE TOLERANCE AND TO INSTILL IT IN OUR CHILDREN, BOTH THROUGH EDUCATION AND OUR OWN EXAMPLE. WE ARE IMMENSELY PROUD THAT OUR COUNTRY IS HOME TO ALL PEOPLE OF VARIOUS BACKGROUNDS, WHO LIVE AND WORK TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE FOR THEIR CHILDREN WITHOUT FEAR, FANATICISM, HATE OR RACIAL DISCRIMINATION.

ZAYED TOLERANCE PLEDGE HH SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN ZAYED, MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION, LAUNCHED THE ZAYED TOLERANCE PLEDGE CAMPAIGN, WHICH AIMS TO CONSOLIDATE THE VALUES OF CO-EXISTENCE ESTABLISHED BY THE FOUNDING FATHER, SHEIKH ZAYED.

TO ESTABLISH VALUES OF TOLERANCE, COMMUNICATION AND COEXISTENCE IN SOCIETY.

ENABLING TOLERANCE IN SOCIETY THROUGH POLICIES AND LEGISLATION.

INTRODUCING THE UAE MODEL OF TOLERANCE TO THE WORLD TO BECOME PART OF COMMUNITY VIRTUES.

OPENNESS TO OTHER HUMAN CULTURES.

THE ZAYED-GANDHI MUSEUM IN ABU DHABI TELLS THE STORY OF TOLERANCE AND THE JOINT VISIONS OF TWO DISTINGUISHED LEADERS, THE LATE SHEIKH ZAYED BIN SULTAN AL NAHYAN AND MAHATMA GANDHI.

1. LOGOTYPE

FRAMEWORK COMMUNITY

EDUCATION

WORKPLACE

CULTURE

PROMOTING TOLERANCE WITHIN FAMILY AND COMMUNITY THROUGH CENTRES AND AWARENESS PROGRAMMES

PROMOTING TOLERANCE THROUGH EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES IN UNIVERSITIES AND SCHOOLS

PROMOTING TOLERANCE IN GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS THROUGH EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AWARENESS

CELEBRATING THE EXPATRIATE COMMUNITIES IN THE UAE AND IMPLEMENTING ART AND CULTURE SECTOR EVENTS

UAE MODEL

1.1 PRIMARY LOGOTYPE

This is the primary logo which will be used alongside all collateral pertaining to the Year of Tolerance.

BRIGHTON COLLEGE HOSTING THE GLOBAL AWARENESS DAY.

ZAYED-GANDHI MUSEUM

TO HIGHLIGHT THE IMPACT OF TOLERANCE, AND TO EXPAND THE SCOPE AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNICATION AND DIALOGUE.

POLICIES AND LEGISLATION

ESTABLISHING THE UAE AS A GLOBAL CAPITAL OF TOLERANCE THROUGH CONFERENCES, FORUMS, AND ENRICHMENT OF CONTENT AWARENESS

TOLERANCE IN EDUCATION

THIS FESTIVAL FEATURES INCLUSIVE PUBLIC EVENTS THAT PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR DIALOGUE, APPRECIATION OF DIVERSITY, AND OUTCOME-ORIENTED FORUMS.

THE UAE ORGANISED A SIGNIFICANT VISIT FROM THE HEAD OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH, POPE FRANCIS, MARKING THE FIRST TIME A PONTIFF VISITS THE REGION.

MISSION

THE GHAF TREE WAS CHOSEN AS A SYMBOL OF THE YEAR OF TOLERANCE BECAUSE OF THE GREAT SIGNIFICANCE THAT THE TREE BEARS AS AN INDIGENOUS TREE.

FESTIVAL OF TOLERANCE

HISTORIC VISITS

OBJECTIVES

MINISTER OF TOLERANCE

TOLERANCE BRIDGE THE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE OVER THE DUBAI CANAL WAS RENAMED BY HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AS ‘THE TOLERANCE BRIDGE’.

REINFORCING TOLERANCE THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF POLICIES AND EXECUTIVE REGULATIONS

HH SHEIKHA FATIMA WELCOMED THE PARTICIPANTS AT THE ‘FAMILY’S ROLE IN CONSOLIDATING VALUES OF TOLERANCE’ CONFERENCE’. THIS CONFERENCE WAS ATTENDED

BY OVER 300 INTERNATIONAL FIGURES.

TOLERANCE IN ORGANISATIONS

TOLERANCE WITH NATURE

DUBAI POLICE PLEDGED TO DIG 25 WELLS IN AFRICA, BUILD FIVE WATER NETWORKS IN MAURITANIA AND KENYA, AND DISTRIBUTE WATER IN COLLABORATION WITH CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS.

THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY ABU DHABI (EAD) CELEBRATED THE VALUES OF TOLERANCE BY TAKING PROACTIVE MEASURES TO SUPPORT EXISTING EFFORTS TO REDUCE POLLUTION AND THE CONSUMPTION OF MATERIALS HARMFUL TO THE ENVIRONMENT.

THE UAE CABINET APPROVED THE NATIONAL TOLERANCE PROGRAMME AIMING TO STRENGTHEN THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE, CONSOLIDATE THE ROLE OF FAMILY, PROMOTE TOLERANCE AMONG YOUTH, PRODUCE ENRICHING SCIENTIFIC AND CULTURAL CONTENT, AND INTEGRATE INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS.

THE ‘TOLERANCE IN SIGHT’ IS AN AWARENESS CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED BY THE NOOR DUBAI FOUNDATION AND IT AIMS TO PROVIDE MEDICAL CHECK-UPS IN DIVERSE RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS.

INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS THE GLOBAL COUNCIL FOR TOLERANCE AND PEACE RECEIVED AN INVITATION TO OPEN AN OFFICE IN CHILE, AND SIGNED A COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH CHILEAN AUTHORITIES. DURING THE OPENING OF THE WORLD TOLERANCE SUMMIT (WTS), HE SHEIKH NAHYAN MUBARAK AL NAHYAN LAUNCHED THE NATIONAL RESEARCH PROJECT OF TOLERANCE AND ALSO THE GLOBAL TOLERANCE ALLIANCE .

WORLD TOLERANCE SUMMIT

MARIAM UM ESA MOSQUE THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS WAS AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE TOLERANCE AND CREATE A SPACE FOR INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY. THE EVENT FEATURED MORE THAN 7,500 ATHLETES AND 3,000 COACHES FROM 192 COUNTRIES.

GEMS SCHOOLS ARE THE FIRST IN THE COUNTRY TO ESTABLISH A ‘TOLERANCE GARDEN’.

THE UAE EMBASSY IN MADRID ORGANISED A SEMINAR, TITLED, ‘THE CULTURE OF TOLERANCE AS A MECHANISM FOR PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE AND DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABILITY’, IN COOPERATION WITH THE AL BAYT AL ARABI FOUNDATION.

NATIONAL TOLERANCE PROGRAMME

UTILISING MEDIA POLICIES AND TELEVISION AND RADIO PROGRAMMES TO FOSTER THE MESSAGE OF TOLERANCE

SORBONNE ABU DHABI IS SET TO HOST ‘COLLOQUIUM - ARGUMENTATION AND SOCIETY: FOR A CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE, A SPEECH WITHOUT VIOLENCE CONFERENCE’.

TOLERANCE IN SIGHT CONFERENCE ON TOLERANCE IN FAMILY

ROADS AND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY DUBAI (RTA) WILL SPONSOR THE SECOND EDITION OF THE WORLD TOLERANCE SUMMIT (WTS 2019).

MEDIA

CHAPTER 5

HH SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM, VICE PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER OF THE UAE AND RULER OF DUBAI

HIS EXCELLENCY SHEIKH NAHAYAN BIN MUBARAK AL NAHAYAN

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

H H SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM ANNOUNCED STRUCTURAL CHANGES TO THE 12TH CABINET. THE MINISTRY OVERSEES THE PROGRAMMES, EVENTS, AND REGULATIONS THAT WOULD BOOST THE UAE’S MESSAGE OF TOLERANCE.

OVER 2,000 MINISTERS AND GOVERNMENT LEADERS AROUND THE WORLD WILL GATHER IN DUBAI TO DISCUSS THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENTS IN SPREADING TOLERANCE AND THE EFFORTS NEEDED TO FIGHT FANATICISM AND DISCRIMINATION.

HH SHEIKH MOHAMMAD BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN, CROWN PRINCE OF ABU DHABI, RENAMED THE SHEIKH MOHAMMAD BIN ZAYED MOSQUE TO ‘MARIAM, UMM EISA’ — ARABIC FOR ‘MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS’ AS A GESTURE OF COEXISTENCE.

16

137

TOLERANCE INITIATIVES. FACT SHEET. • www.theyearoftolerance.ae • “VP directs formation of ‘Supreme National Committee for Tolerance’“, Emirates24|7 • “Ministry of Tolerance and Ministry of Education launch project to promote tolerance between public and private schools”, www.moe.gov.ae

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS RELATED TO THE ENVIRONMENT

2016

28. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)

UAE Timeline

26. Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem services

1979

27. Minamata Convention on Mercury

2014

ACCEPTANCE

25. Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilisation to the Convention on Biological Diversity

24. Nagoya-Kuala Lumpur Supplementary Protocol on Liability and Redress to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

ACCESSION

1. Regional Organisation for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME)

23. Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

2007

2. Protocol Concerning Regional Cooperation In Combating Pollution By Oil And Other Harmful Substances In Cases Of Emergency

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS RELATED TO ENVIRONMENT. UAE’S TIMELINE.

FOREIGN DIRECT INTO DUBAI’S GREEN ECONOMY SECTORS

FDI CAPITAL (US$ MILLIONS)

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT

INTO DUBAI’S GREEN ECONOMY SECTORS

1,400

2003-2019

1,200

1,000

800

LOGISTICS

ICT & INTERNET INFRASTRUCTURE 600

RETAIL TRADE

RENEWABLE ENERGY 400

NUMBER OF PROJECTS

22. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance

1990

200

70

2005

9. Agreement on Agriculture

1999

10. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

11. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

2001

2017

2019 H1

2018

2011

2015

2013

2014

2012

2016

2010

2009

2003

2007

2005

2004

2006

2008

US$ BILLION

2014

2019 H1

2018

2011

2017

2015

2013

2012

2016

0

SOURCE: FDI MARKETS

14. Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade

12. Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage

DISCLAIMER ABOVE DATA IS APPROVED BY 3RD PARTY AND IS SUBJECT TO AUDIT BY FDI MARKETS. DATA IS ACCURATE AS PER THE SYSTEM AT THE TIME OF REPORTING. (21 NOVEMBER 2019)

NOTE: GK SKILLS = GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE SKILLS; VT SKILLS = VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL SKILLS.

2017 NUMBER OF ENTERPRISES IN UAE

* Data does not include public administration, defence and household activities * Number of establishments includes the active establishments only and does not include

CONSTRUCTION

42,834

15,909

PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES

ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES ACTIVITIES

5,234

INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION

1,508

TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE

FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE ACTIVITIES

12,176 2,622

EDUCATION

ENABLE

90

60

ATTRACT

50

VOACTIONAL AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

GROW

IRAN

INDIA

RUSSIA

JAPAN

878

740

2,706

1,945

1,456

10.7

9.1

2.0

13.5

11.4

EMPLOYABILITY

TALENT IMPACT

12

TH

83.68 SCORE

81.38

TH

22

ND

70.59 SCORE

56.45

SCORE

24

SCORE

TH

49

TH

72.77 SCORE

30.53 SCORE

19

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATION OF

SPECIES

2018

2021

2030

1,120

• EIA; EU Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research

5,712

200

850

2,400

2,190

4000

7,670

Collection

7,400

(7,400)

(7,400)

Recycling

1,436

4,725

9,450

-

590

758

177

GREEN JOBS

(3,800)

(3,800)

2030

2021

2018 27.8%

27.8% 25.5%

27.8% 25.7%

24.4% 21.4%

Wastewater

3,800

Manufacturing

3,000

Buildings and construction

2,687

Agriculture

1,270

3,050

223

17.7% 12.1%

12.1%

10.9%

11.4%

18.9%

12.1%

7.1%

3,108

2,700

2,750

1,520

2,270

Forestry Fisheries

GK SKILLS

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 6

9,634

Energy efficiency District Cooling WASTE MANAGEMENT

Waste to Energy

VT SKILLS

RENEWABLE ENERGY JOBS IN GCC

ENERGY Renewable Energy*

RETAIN

GROW

PRELIMINARY ESTIMATION OF

GREEN JOBS IN THE UAE

370

PUBLIC SECTOR

WASTE MANAGEMENT

TOURISM

TRANSPORT

ENERGY

600

SERVICES Financial Services

64

70

100

Professional

450

(450)

(450)

Wholesale and retail

400

(400)

(400)

Tourism Academia Public Sector TOTAL

6,000

6,475

7,900

154

(154)

(154)

13,750

(13,750)

(13,750)

49,520

67,657

83,422

0-250 MILLIONS TONS

* Without manufacturing. Construction jobs counted as up to 2018 no longer exist.

Construction jobs counted for 2021 and 2030 will also cease after completion.(): Assumed no growth due to lack of projections.

250.1 - 500

**An attempt has been to include only direct jobs in each sector without accounting for the wider employment effect in the economy.

500.1 - 2,500

ATTRACT

ENABLE

2017 TOP 10 EMITTING COUNTRIES

GREEN JOBS SKILL GAPS A pilot green jobs survey was undertaken in 2014 as part of Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence’s (DCCE) Green Jobs programme, where 59 companies based in Dubai responded to a questionnaire. The survey intended to obtain a general idea of skill gaps and shortages observed in the ongoing transition to a green economy. It was found that skills for green jobs fall into two categories: technical skills that are specialised in a particular area; and core skills that are generic.

CORE

SKILLS

Language Skills

TECHNICAL SKILLS Environmental Sciences

IT

Waste Management

Coordination Skills

Manufacturing & Assembly

Networking communication & Negotiation

Environmaental Impact Assistance

Environmental Awareness

Solar PV Installation & Maintenance

Report Writing

Urban Planning

Problem Solving

2,500.1 - 5,000 5,000.1 - 12,000 TOTAL EMISSIONS: PER CAPITA:

All tonnes are US short tonnes

SAUDI ARABIA

CHINA

704.1

11,990

742

21.4

8.5

14.6

SOUTH KOREA

161

GLOBAL TALENT COMPETITIVENESS INDEX 2019 • INSEAD, The Adecco Group, Tata Communications, “The Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2019. Entrepreneurial Talent and Global Competitiveness”

8

WE CARE ABOUT FUTURE GENERATIONS

GERMANY

17.4

LIFESTYLE

RD

OUT OF 125 COUNTRIES FOR ATTRACTING AND RETAINING BUSINESS TALENT

OUR SOCIETY HAS A UNIQUE PERSONALITY

U.S.

LIFELONG LEARNING

ACCESS TO GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

3

INCOME GROUP AVERAGE

UAE RANKED

MILLIONS OF TONNES OF C02, 2017

5,630

HIGH-LEVEL SKILLS

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES RETAIN

97

ANNUAL CO2 EMISSIONS PER COUNTRY

18.6

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE SKILLS

MID-LEVEL SKILLS

10

277

MINING & QUARRYING (INCLUDES CRUDE OIL & NATURAL GAS

680

VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL SKILLS

SUSTAINABILITY

GROW

INTERNAL OPENNESS

MARKET LANDSCAPE

BUSINESS AND LABOR LANDSCAPE

30 20

ELECTRICITY, GAS & WATER SUPPLY; WASTE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

CANADA

OUTPUT

RETAIN

FORMAL EDUCATION

40

530

TOTAL EMISSIONS:

ATTRACT

EXTERNAL OPENNESS

770 GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE SKILLS

HUMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK ACTIVITIES

PER CAPITA:

INPUT

ENABLE

REGULATORY LANDSCAPE

100

2,849

4,124

REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES

ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT SERVICE ACTIVITIES

6,818 AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY & FISHING

GLOBAL TALENT COMPETITIVENESS INDEX (GTCI)

ENTRTREPRENEURIAL TRENDS OF GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS

CHAPTER 7

18,541

22,468

GLOBAL TALENT COMPETITIVENESS INDEX 2019

80

• Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA)

32,800

MANUFACTURING

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION AND OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES

10 LARGESTEMITTING COUNTRIES

NUMBER OF ENTERPRISES

BY ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

CHAPTER 3

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE, REPAIR OF MOTOR VEHICLES & MOTORCYCLES

WE ARE A BUSINESS CAPITAL

146,140

the number of registered establishments by licensing entity

* Data based on 2018 economic survey results for year 2017

A LAND FOR TALENT

BY ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

• Dubai Investment Development Agency (Dubai FDI)

2.36

10

2010

15. Convention on Conservation of Wildlife and its Natural Habitats in the GCC

2009

2002

13. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants

30

20

2003

1998

18. Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer

2003

2007

1996

8. WTO Convention on the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)

2004

17. Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer

16. Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

7. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

2005

19. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)

1995

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT INTO RENEWABLE ENERGY IN DUBAI FROM 2007 TO FIRST HALF OF 2019 AMOUNTED FOR

50

40

2004

5. Protocol Concerning Marine Pollution resulting from Exploration of the Continental Shelf 6. Protocol for the Protection of the Marine Environment against Pollution from Land-based Source

0 60

2006

4. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

• Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA)

21. International Plant Protection Convention

20. Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (4 different amendments)

2008

3. The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal

18,140

International Conventions Related to the Environment

2015

29. Paris Agreement on Climate Change

RATIFICATION

• “UAE residents urged to take the Zayed Tolerance Pledge”, The National, www. thenational.ae • “UAE’s Year of Tolerance reflects founder’s vision”, The Postcphpost.dk • Special Olympics World Games 2019 a ‘Flame of Hope’ in the ‘Home of Tolerance’, Emirates News Agency, wam.ae • “UAE names 2019 the Year of Tolerance to reflect Zayed’s vision”, EMICemic.ae • “Nahyan bin Mubarak reviews activities of ‘Knights of Tolerance Programme’”, Emirates News Agency, wam.ae • World Tolerance Summit | World Tolerance Dubai | World Tolerance UAE | World Tolerance, www.worldtolerancesummit.com • “UAE adopts ‘Tolerance Accelerators’ in bid to reduce extremism”, Emirates News Agency, www.wam.ae • National Festival of Tolerance, nationalfestivaloftolerance.ae • National Tolerance Programme - The Official Portal of the UAE Government, www. government.ae • “The UAE Celebrates the Year of Tolerance with a historic visit from Pope Francis”, emirateswoman.com • UAE Embassy in Madrid organises seminar on culture of tolerance”, Emirates News Agency, wam.ae • “Dubai’s RTA to sponsor World Tolerance Summit 2019”, Emirates News Agency, www.wam.ae • “MoF Launches ‘Ramadan Is Tolerance’ Initiative Targeting 1,000 Workers”, Al Bawaba, www.albawaba.com • “British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt hails UAE Year of Tolerance during Abu Dhabi visit”, The National, www.thenational.ae

195

• Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, “UAE Green Jobs Program: Jobs & Skills for the UAE’s Green Economy Transformation 2019”

207

SEE YOU

NEXT YEAR Do you have GREAT IDEAS on how to accelerate Green Economy?

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Would you like to receive additional copies of the report?

If you do, kindly get in touch with us: tellmeyourstory@dcce.ae

See you next year.

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Dubai Carbon is the ‘go-to’ thought leader with the ability to connect the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the GRI Reporting Framework.

Dubai Carbon provides tailor-made solutions to accelerate sustainable change. Our collaborative framework allows you to kick-start your sustainability reporting journey in the point most suitable for your internal capacity and experience.

Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence PJSC PO Box 333992, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Phone +971 4 322 9853 Facsimile +971 4 385 4295 Email yalla@dcce.ae

www.dcce.ae

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This publication has been created with the kind support of: