Today's Edition
Mays Ibrahim (DUBAI)
The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is committed to prioritising environmental sustainability as a cornerstone of its strategic planning and operational practices, in line with national objectives, according to Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at DWTC.
“We have adopted a multi-faceted approach that includes energy-efficient building designs, the use of renewable energy sources, and comprehensive waste management programmes. Our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint involve meticulous monitoring of our energy consumption and implementing green technologies across our venues,” the Executive VP told Aletihad in a recent interview.
“By aligning our practices with Dubai’s sustainability goals, we contribute not only to local environmental targets but also to global efforts to combat climate change. We have implemented comprehensive sustainability initiatives across three areas – Planet, People, and Governance, which work consistently in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)”.
In an effort to advance “planet-centred” initiatives, DWTC has introduced electric vehicles and chargers, in addition to deploying Neutral Fuel’s net zero biofuel to power its transportation fleet, deliveries, and more, according to Julfar.
He also highlighted DWTC’s “people-focused” initiatves, which include actively cultivating impactful partnerships like its collaboration with the UAE Food Bank, which facilitates the allocation and distribution of surplus food from DWTC events to local food associations.
During Ramadan in 2022, DWTC contributed 7,650 meals as part of the “One Million Saved Meals Campaign”, an effort that earned them the UAE Food Bank Award in 2023. Moreover, DWTC supports the Emirates Red Crescent’s Grace Conservations programme and collaborates with IFFCO to conduct food distribution campaigns, aiding those in need.
“In terms of ‘Governance’, we are focused on fostering an ethical, green and resilient supply chain - developing and implementing a robust Sustainable Procurement Policy and establishing a Supplier Code of Conduct so that our entire network can also align on accountability and ethical business practices,” said Julfar. “These initiatives, and many more, underscore our commitment to creating a sustainable future for Dubai and for the broader community.”
Advancing Dubai’s Socioeconomic GoalsDWTC significantly contributes to Dubai’s socioeconomic development by hosting international events that drive tourism, create jobs, and promote the city as a global business hub.
Julfar said: “By embedding sustainability in our operations, we reduce our environmental impact and enhance Dubai’s appeal as a forward-thinking destination. Our focus on innovation keeps us at the forefront of the MICE [Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions] industry through investments in efficient technologies like digital solutions, smart energy management, and renewable energy sources”.
In the last few weeks alone, DWTC achieved the prestigious ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications, which demonstrate its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and occupational health and safety.
As the UAE extends the Year of Sustainability throughout 2024, Julfar affirmed that DWTC continues to accelerate the implementation of eco-friendly practices across its venues, driven by a vision to lead by example in sustainability and innovation.
“These initiatives align with Dubai’s vision for a sustainable, prosperous future by attracting business and tourism, fostering knowledge exchange, and positioning the city as a leader in sustainable practices.”
Driving Economic Diversification GoalsAligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda’s (D33) aim to secure the city’s status as one of the top three global destinations for business and travel by 2033, DWTC continues to spearhead sector diversification efforts, reinforcing the city’s stature as a leading global business hub.
“Sustainability remains a core focus. We are fully committed to achieving a net-zero sustainable future, positively impacting the environment, community, and our operations in alignment with local and federal government sustainability strategies. Our initiatives extend across multiple dimensions of our operations, from real estate, housekeeping, waste management, hospitality operations, planning and engineering, and customer care,” said Julfar.
He noted that DWTC’s focus for 2024 is on “growth and expansion”, building on the successes of large-scale events in 2023, including global conferences like COP28 at Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), and prestigious legacy events such as GITEX GLOBAL, Gulfood, Arab Health, and the Arabian Travel Market.
“Our two world-class venues, DWTC and DEC, will continue to attract and host high-profile international events, making considerable contributions to Dubai’s GDP,” added Julfar, noting that DWTC is also investing in smart technologies to enhance the visitor experience, ensuring a seamless digital journey.
“As we continue into what has been an exceptional 2024, we remain committed to shaping the future of Dubai’s business, tourism, and trade sectors. We aim to ensure our continued leadership in the global events and exhibitions landscape, striving to achieve a higher eco-social contribution to the city this year by driving innovation, growth, and global collaboration,” the Executive VP said.
Looking AheadAccording to Julfar, DWTC has mapped out several strategic initiatives aimed at amplifying its impact on Dubai’s economy and reinforcing its reputation as a dynamic centre for business, innovation, and growth.
“We are expanding our event portfolio to include more industry-specific and niche events that cater to emerging sectors - with a focus on attracting international exhibitors and visitors. Additionally, we are enhancing our digital infrastructure, extending our global reach, and working together with government and private sector partners to foster innovative ecosystems,” he said.
It’s worth noting that in 2023 alone, DWTC hosted 76 large-scale events which generated Dh18.3 billion in economic output, making for an impressive 40% increase year-on-year.
Julfar said: “DWTC is continuously undertaking active measures to maintain our position as a key contributor to the broader business and innovation ecosystem of Dubai, leveraging synergies with other key sectors such as technology, finance, and education to create a holistic environment for growth”.
