Dubai World Trade Centre Awarded Green Globe Gold Certification
Green Globe Certification has awarded Gold status to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the Middle East’s leading business and events destination, recognising five consecutive years of measurable improvements in its sustainability performance. This milestone highlights DWTC’s long-term commitment to advancing responsible and sustainable operations, underpinned by significant investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and waste management solutions.
Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at the Dubai World Trade Centre
Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at the Dubai World Trade Centre said, “Securing Green Globe Gold Certification for the fifth consecutive year is a testament to the real progress our organisation and the industry collectively, are making. At DWTC, sustainability is integral to how we design, operate, and deliver events that welcome millions of visitors each year. From energy efficiency and smarter venue operations to innovative waste management and responsible procurement, this recognition highlights our commitment to measurable impact and long-term change. Above all, it reflects our belief that collaboration drives progress. By working closely with government, industry partners, organisers, and our own teams, we are setting new benchmarks that advance Dubai’s sustainability ambitions and inspire global best practice in events and exhibitions.”
Driving Clean Energy and Operational Efficiency
DWTC continues to advance its sustainability agenda by regularly reviewing and enhancing its objectives and practices. With a clear focus on expanding clean energy use and reducing carbon emissions, it has implemented a range of initiatives across its venues, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and sustainable operations.
In 2024, rooftop solar arrays (3.4 MW) above Sheikh Rashid Hall generated nearly 5 million kWh of clean electricity, significantly reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Complementing this, the transition of the vehicle fleet to biodiesel and the introduction of EcoBurners across catering operations have delivered tangible results, preventing 14 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, saving almost 47,500 litres of water, and diverting over 4 tonnes of waste from landfill, all while maintaining the highest standards of service.
Further efficiency upgrades have strengthened overall performance. The installation of LED lighting across DWTC-managed apartments and car parks, together with optimised energy use in kitchen operations, have enhanced comfort while reinforcing safety and reliability for visitors and tenants alike. Collectively, these measures underscore DWTC’s commitment to long-term operational resilience, an elevated visitor experience, and measurable sustainability outcomes.
Advancing a Circular Economy
Strengthening its commitment to a circular economy, DWTC has continued to transform event waste into valuable resources. In 2024, DWTC managed 17,500 tonnes of waste, with more than 5,200 tonnes diverted from landfill through recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy initiatives. Strategic collaborations with partners including BEEAH, The Waste Lab, Imdaad, Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), Sparklo, and EnviroServe have also enabled large-scale recovery of recyclables and e-waste, underscoring DWTC’s leadership in promoting circular economy principles.
Building Inclusive and Sustainable Communities
DWTC’s sustainability strategy extends beyond environmental action to embrace social responsibility. Flagship programs such as Lami3, a two-year management training initiative for UAE nationals, provides hands-on experience across multiple business units, preparing participants for future leadership roles and contributing to the UAE’s long-term economic growth.
Alongside this, a partnership with the Emirates Down Syndrome Association delivers a dedicated hospitality training program that equips People of Determination with vocational skills across food service, housekeeping, and customer care, empowering participants to build meaningful careers in the hospitality sector.
In parallel with its inclusion-focused initiatives, employees also play a central role in advancing sustainability. A network of Sustainability Champions lead environmental programs across the organisation, while staff actively participate in Emirates Environmental Group clean-up campaigns in collaboration with government entities among other campaigns. These initiatives safeguard Dubai’s beaches, deserts, and public spaces while fostering awareness around recycling and responsible environmental practices.
About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC):
A global business facilitator since 1979, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is home to the region’s leading purpose-built convention and exhibition centre. DWTC provides a platform for connecting people, products, innovation and ideas from around the world through a dynamic calendar of international trade exhibitions and its own roster of sector leading mega events. As a designated free zone, complemented by award-winning commercial real estate, DWTC plays an integral role in Dubai and the region’s growth story. Since its inauguration, DWTC has hosted close to 6,400 events, with an estimated economic output of AED 270 billion, attracting over 40 million business visitors to Dubai.
Building on this legacy, DWTC’s second flagship venue, the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), stands as a premier destination for prominent national and international mega events. Strategically aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, DEC’s recently announced AED 10 billion expansion is integral to Expo City Dubai’s vision of becoming a global business hub for exhibitions and events. Additionally, developed and managed by DWTC for Expo 2020 Dubai, Expo Village hosts a vibrant residential community with 2,273 units across four clusters, also integrated within the Expo City Dubai ecosystem.
Contact
Dubai World Trade Centre
Email: Media@dwtc.com
Tel: +971 4 389 3999
www.dwtc.com