Dubai Hosts Global Green Economy Leaders
The 11th World Green Economy Summit (WGES) officially opened its doors in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on October 1, 2025. The two-day event, concluding on October 2, 2025, is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The summit's central theme is 'Innovating for Impact: Accelerating the Future of the Green Economy', bringing together over 3,300 participants from more than 30 countries, including policymakers, business leaders, investors, and innovators.
Key Inauguration and Distinguished Speakers
The summit was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy. The opening ceremony featured an address by HE 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 the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO). In his speech, HE Al Tayer highlighted the summit's role in mobilising public and private sector partnerships, expanding green finance, promoting climate equity, empowering youth, and supporting communities vulnerable to climate change. He also noted that global investment in the low-carbon energy transition reached a record $2.1 trillion in 2024, marking an 11% increase.
Other prominent speakers included:
- HE Sauli Niinistö, Former President of Finland
- HE Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment
- Sheikha Dr Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Institutions
- HE Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure
- Naila Farouky, CEO of the Arab Foundations Forum
Focus on Critical Green Economy Pillars
Organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, DEWA, and the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), the 11th WGES is co-located with the Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX 2025). The discussions are structured around seven key pillars designed to advance a sustainable future:
- Technology and Innovation
- Clean and Renewable Energy
- Policies and Regulation
- Finance
- Climate Equity
- Climate Adaptation and Resilience
- Youth Engagement in Climate Action
The summit aims to foster dialogue and cooperation to achieve net-zero carbon emissions and promote resilient, inclusive green growth globally. It builds upon the outcomes of COP28, which was hosted by the UAE, reinforcing the nation's commitment to global climate action.
Dubai's Commitment to Sustainable Development
Dubai's hosting of the WGES underscores its ambition to be a global hub for green economy initiatives and reflects the UAE's broader vision for environmental stewardship and economic diversification. The event serves as a crucial platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering partnerships, and developing innovative solutions to accelerate the transition towards a greener and more sustainable economy worldwide.
5 Comments
BuggaBoom
Accelerating the future of green economy – exactly what the world needs right now!
Eugene Alta
While it's positive to see global leaders discussing green initiatives, the true test will be the concrete policy changes that emerge from these discussions, not just the rhetoric.
KittyKat
Expensive conferences rarely solve anything. Focus on implementation, not just dialogue.
Donatello
The focus on technology and innovation is promising for future solutions. However, we must also address the immediate systemic changes required across industries to truly achieve net-zero emissions.
Raphael
Another summit, more talk. When will we see real, tangible action?