In recent years, we’ve seen more and more events that aim to tackle climate change cropping up. Given the urgency of the matter in the Middle East and North Africa, it’s only natural to have some of the planet’s most renowned environmental experts become regular guests in the region, coming to reflect, analyze, and suggest new strategies to address crucial environmental concerns from our side of the globe. Now, in the upcoming months, two international climate change summits will be taking place from within the Arab World.
Previously, state officials had revealed that after iterations in Morocco and more recently in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, the next edition of the Conference of Parties (COP), an annual United Nations climate change conference, will be held at the heart of the UAE. Set to take place at Expo City Dubai, a location that previously served as backdrop to the 2020 Universal Exposition, the metropolitan city will soon be welcoming some of the planet’s most important individuals, cutting the summit’s proverbial ribbon on Nov. 6 before wrapping up on Nov. 17.
Meanwhile, ahead of what is considered to be one of the world’s most followed and mediated events, Abu Dhabi will see discussions and conversations around environmental questions kick-off this month, on Jan. 14 to be precise, as the capital city will be organizing the 15th edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). Held under the patronage of the UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ADSW will feature a series of talks and activities focused on transitioning to a net-zero future, promoting ecological practices, and supporting relevant policies to be adopted by respective governments around the globe. Running until Jan. 19, heads of state, lawmakers, and industry-recognized figures will attend, visit, and even take the stage to probe some of humankind’s most pressing issues.
“For over 15 years, ADSW has reinforced the UAE’s commitment to addressing global challenges as a responsible leader driving climate action and sustainable economic development,” said Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Special Envoy for Climate Change and chairman of Masdar.
“ADSW 2023 will help shape the sustainability agenda and drive momentum toward Cop28 in the UAE by convening the global community and facilitating meaningful dialogue to foster consensus, ground-breaking partnerships, and innovative solutions,” he continued.
Third-largest oil producer in OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries), the UAE seemingly wants to set the example for its peers and close allies, becoming a regional, and even global, leader in green and renewable energies, low carbon footprints, and all things pertaining to the climate preservation and protection.
