Dubai Exhibition Centre receives international sustainability award

DEC achieves Green Globe Certification for its commitment to sustainable practices and training programmes which support the UAE’s carbon reduction goals

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 24 February 2025: The Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) has been recognised by the internationally renowned Green Globe Certification (GGC) programme, for its commitment to sustainable operational practices and management training programmes, that support the UAE’s net-zero ambitions.     

Owned and operated by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the LEED-certified exhibitions and meetings venue was awarded GGC following a rigorous and extensive independent audit process carried out by Green Globe’s preferred partner in the Middle East, Dubai-headquartered sustainability consultancy Farnek.

“DEC is one of only a handful of venues in the region to be awarded GGC. During the comprehensive audit process and assessment, DEC complied with more than 380 stringent sustainability indicators, achieving a rating of 90% through a range of robust eco-friendly initiatives and training. This award demonstrates DEC’s commitment to operate in a sustainable manner and of course highlights its support of the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy,” said Muna Al Nahdi, Head of Sustainability & Consultancy, Farnek.

Regarding the venue’s operational processes and systems, DEC has adapted multiple strategies and technological initiatives to maximise thermal and water load reductions throughout its indoor environment.

Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre said, “At DWTC, Sustainability is at the core of our operations. Achieving Green Globe Certification for DEC is a testament to our ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible practices and innovative solutions that reduce our carbon footprint. From energy-efficient technologies to waste management and sustainable procurement, we continuously seek ways to enhance our environmental performance. This recognition reinforces our alignment with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, and we remain dedicated to driving positive change within the events and exhibitions industry.”

Other initiatives include a standing seam roof system which consists of multiple different layers such as recycled fibre glass and air void gaps. These materials help to reduce the amount of heat passing through the roof sandwich panels.

To promote segregation and minimise waste going to landfill, the venue has installed three-stream waste segregation systems throughout its public concourse, meeting rooms and back of house areas.

In addition, DEC has been effectively reducing and minimising its use of packaging. Within their operations DEC has reduced its dependency on cling wrap, and other unsustainable items. Suppliers are encouraged to use recyclable materials and to take back packaging material after events.

All taps, faucets and showerheads are installed with aerators and motion sensors to minimise water wastage, which has resulted in significant water savings. DEC also prioritises engaging suppliers that use biofuel to run their transportation fleets.

One key GGC criteria is to demonstrate a defined training programme helping employees to understand their role in the management of environmental, sociocultural, health, and safety practices. DWTC is dedicated to the growth and development of UAE nationals, demonstrating significant success in attracting and nurturing local talent. DWTC runs a UAE Management Trainee Program (Lami3), which equips newly graduated UAE nationals with essential business skills over two years, investing in career development for these future leaders across all business units, equipping them with the essential skills required to succeed. This includes participation in a Management Development Program at IESE University in Spain.