Abu dhabi: As part of Dubai's efforts to solidify its position as a global centre for sustainability and environmental consciousness, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, inaugurated the first edition of the Dubai Environment Conference and Exhibition (DECE). Organised by the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, the event is being held at the Grand Hyatt Dubai over two days, 7-8 September 2026, under the theme 'Protecting Our Environment. Securing Our Future.'
According to Emirates News Agency, the inaugural ceremony was attended by Dr. Amna Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, along with representatives of international environmental organisations, leading national and international institutions working in the spheres of sustainability, energy, and the green economy, and a distinguished group of decision-makers, experts, and representatives from both the public and private sectors.
DECE serves as a platform for environmental dialogue and climate action, aligned with the UAE's national vision and its local and international strategies on environment, sustainability, and food security, including the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, the National Green Agenda 2030, the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Over the two-day event, decision makers and experts will discuss ongoing efforts and the future of sustainability in Dubai, while showcasing the latest initiatives and innovative solutions supporting environmental and climate action. The event will feature dialogue sessions, presentations of scientific research, and a dedicated environmental exhibition.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum stated that the participation of environment and sustainability experts and key decision-makers during the conference and exhibition reflects Dubai's commitment to protecting the environment, tackling climate change, and enhancing resource sustainability. He highlighted that DECE provides a platform to elevate the dialogue around environmental priorities and mobilise collective action, foster knowledge exchange, and strengthen cooperation and partnerships across Dubai and the UAE.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed also toured the exhibition to learn about key efforts and initiatives undertaken by participating government and private sector entities to conserve biodiversity and natural resources, address climate change, advance the circular economy, and build sustainable ecosystems. He expressed hope that the event would lead to positive recommendations and outcomes that contribute to strengthening partnerships and accelerating the development of innovative solutions.
Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, Director-General of the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, welcomed participants to the first edition of DECE, aiming to establish it as a platform for environmental dialogue and climate action at both national and regional levels. He noted that the conference and exhibition are part of efforts to build an integrated framework supporting sustainability, enabling sectors to exchange knowledge and expertise, and showcasing the latest environmental innovations.
The two-day conference programme covers six key themes reflecting Dubai's top environmental priorities: biodiversity, natural resources, food security, climate change, the circular economy, and environmental artificial intelligence. Each theme addresses national and local efforts, challenges, opportunities, and the role of community and partnerships in achieving sustainability.
Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani concluded by extending thanks and appreciation to the leadership for its continued support of environmental and climate work. He also thanked H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum for opening the conference and supporting strategic initiatives that reinforce Dubai's position as a hub for sustainability and environmental innovation.