Expo City Dubai has become the first city in the Middle East and North Africa to earn the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s highest certification, marking a major step in the UAE’s drive to make sustainability central to tourism.
The certification, awarded under the Green Destinations Standard, recognises Expo City’s comprehensive approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. It covers areas such as destination management, nature and climate, culture, social wellbeing, and governance, reinforcing the city’s role as a model for responsible urban development.
The official GSTC certificate will be presented during the inaugural Sustainable Destinations Forum, taking place at Expo City Dubai from October 28 to 29. Co-hosted with Green Destinations and held in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism, the event will bring together global leaders to shape the future of sustainable travel.
Her Excellency Dr Maria Hanif Alqassim, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, said the recognition reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to align tourism growth with environmental preservation and economic progress. She highlighted Expo City as a prime example of how tourism can promote both opportunity and sustainability.
Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai, said sustainability is “part of Expo City Dubai’s DNA,” adding that the recognition underscores the city’s commitment to inspiring change through education, community engagement, and collaboration.
At the heart of this vision is Terra, Expo City’s flagship sustainability pavilion, which integrates net-zero design and nature-based solutions while hosting global initiatives like the Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots programme and the IUCN Centre for Species Survival.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
