Dubai is set to host the inaugural Climate Action and Clean Energy (CARE) MENA forum on 26 November 2025, a major two-day event gathering global leaders, investors, and policymakers to accelerate the region’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy. More than 1,000 delegates are expected to attend the CPD-accredited forum at Madinat Jumeirah.
Organised by Trescon, CARE MENA aims to become the definitive annual platform for shaping the Middle East and North Africa’s sustainability agenda. The event, developed with guidance from the CARE Alliance, a global coalition of industry experts, will feature high-level discussions, technology showcases, and networking opportunities focused on the region’s most pressing climate challenges.
Key Discussions and Expert Speakers
The programme on 26-27 November will cover critical topics ranging from clean energy investment and green hydrogen development to ESG frameworks and sustainable innovation. The speaker lineup includes over 65 regional and global experts.
Key sessions include a presentation by Dr Faisal Rashid on the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and a high-level governance discussion with Adib Rashid of Dubai Chambers and Dr Ashraf Gamaleldin, CEO of Hawkamah. An all-women panel titled “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures” will examine female leadership in climate action, while another debate will address the circular fashion economy with leaders from Only Ethikal, NGX Global, and Chalhoub Group. These discussions reflect how Qatar’s innovation labs reshape government practice by bringing together diverse expertise to solve complex issues.
Naveen Bharadwaj, CEO of Trescon, stated that the forum’s goal is to unite the region’s sustainability leaders to set priorities and drive action. “The decisions, partnerships, and innovations emerging from the forum will shape the region’s sustainability trajectory for years to come,” he said.
Technology and Innovation at the Forefront
The forum also places a strong emphasis on technology tailored for the region. Alex Pavan, CEO of powered-by sponsor emtribe, highlighted the need for localised solutions. “Decades in UAE tech taught us one thing: you can’t copy-paste Western sustainability tools into the desert. So, we built our own,” Pavan explained. He described emtribe as an AI-powered engine designed for GCC realities that links carbon tracking, compliance, and green finance, a topic that aligns with the recent global AI dialogue in Abu Dhabi.
Special Programmes and Awards
To further stimulate progress, CARE MENA will introduce several exclusive features. The CARE ESG Awards, presented by Trescon and ESGMena, will recognise regional pioneers making a measurable environmental and social impact. Other initiatives include:
- ClimateTech World Cup: A global pitch competition for start-ups with breakthrough climate technologies.
- CARE Launchpad: A platform to spotlight disruptive ideas and new research.
- CARE Innovation Programme: A showcase for student-led innovations that are helping to shape a sustainable future.
With support from sponsors including emtribe, Cero Hero, Enjazponic, and S&P Global, the forum is positioned to amplify the MENA region’s leadership in the global climate response. The event promises to unite voices from boardrooms to start-ups, ensuring a collaborative approach to building a sustainable tomorrow.
