The UAE has launched its first Green Innovation District at Expo City Dubai, establishing a dedicated hub to advance sustainable economic growth, foster clean energy solutions, and create high-value jobs. The joint initiative by the Ministry of Economy & Tourism and Expo City Dubai is designed to bring together eco-conscious businesses and position the nation as a leader in the global green economy.
A Hub for Green Technology and Investment
The Green Innovation District will function as a collaborative ecosystem, providing spaces for startups, established enterprises, and research centres to develop and test new technologies. Its focus areas include clean energy, the circular economy, and other green technologies. Officials confirmed the district will also welcome financial companies, offering them a trusted base for regional operations and to channel capital into sustainable industries.
Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, described the district as a “city-wide test bed” for new climate solutions. To support this vision, the UAE has already issued its first green license, creating a benchmark for environmentally conscious businesses operating under a dedicated sustainability framework.
Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation
The project is expected to have a significant economic impact, with officials projecting that investment in the UAE’s clean energy and sustainable sectors will more than triple over the next decade. The district is set to create thousands of jobs and generate new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) involved in research and green technology.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, stated that the district will help direct momentum towards practical solutions. He noted it will support renewable projects, green manufacturing, and the circular economy initiative. The minister added that the hub will strengthen the UAE’s role in helping the wider region decarbonise by developing the products, services, and knowledge needed for a faster energy transition.
Aligning with National Sustainability Goals
The Green Innovation District is a key component of the UAE’s strategy to achieve its Net Zero 2050 goals. By creating a focal point for green development, the initiative aims to accelerate the country’s transition away from fossil fuels. The project is intended to foster partnerships and attract international investments, solidifying the nation’s reputation as a regional centre for sustainable finance and technology.
Ultimately, the district serves a dual purpose: it supports the UAE’s domestic environmental targets while also positioning the country as a pivotal player in the global green transition, capable of exporting expertise and solutions to its neighbours and beyond.
