A high-level delegation from the Climate Neutral Real Estate consortium has visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in early June 2024 to share their vision, collaborate, and work on joint projects aimed at achieving net-zero buildings. The consortium, an alliance dedicated to creating climate-neutral buildings, is spearheading an initiative to transform real estate operations and construction towards sustainability. The visit served as a follow-up on the COP28 climate conference.
Climate Neutral Real Estate is a forward-thinking alliance with a clear mission: to realise net-zero buildings, beginning with operational emissions and subsequently encompassing the environmental impact of construction materials. During their visit, the consortium engaged with UAE stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and strategies. They aim to foster awareness within the financial sector, emphasising the development of new corporate finance solutions that capitalise on the increased value of certified sustainable real estate assets.
On the first day, the delegation visited major developers in Dubai, including Dubai Holding, Nakheel, Emaar, and Majid Al Futtaim. The second day in Abu Dhabi featured executive meetings with Masdar City and Aldar Properties. The third day saw the delegation visit the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) emirate, where they met with RAK Municipality to discuss enhancing the RAK Energy Efficiency and Renewable Strategy 2040, leveraging expertise from the Netherlands. During this visit, the consortium also engaged with key developers such as Marjan, Al Hamra, and RAK Properties, as well as representatives from the RAKEZ free zone. The day concluded with a session with the Emirates Green Building Council and a network reception for like-minded executives and professionals in the UAE.
The delegation’s visit culminated with contributions from various delegates in panel discussions at The Engineering & Sustainability Summit (TESS) 2024, organised by The Hotel Show Dubai.
This visit marks a significant step in strengthening ties between the Netherlands and the UAE, highlighting a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation in the real estate sector. The collaboration is expected to result in groundbreaking projects that set new standards for climate-neutral construction and operation, ultimately contributing to global environmental goals.
The Climate Neutral Real Estate Gulf Region programme is a public-private partnership between the Dutch Government and knowledge institutes, technology companies, and technology providers. The programme focuses on adapting and implementing net-zero building solutions specifically for desert climates, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman being the primary target countries.
The visit was organised in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dubai, and the Climate Neutral Real Estate programme.
