Expo City Dubai has awarded its first Expo Green Licences to six companies, marking a major step forward for the UAE's Green Innovation District and its push to become a global hub for sustainable enterprise.
The recipients span sectors from waste management to climate technology and include both small social enterprises and multinational firms. Among them are AirJoule, a climate tech company specialising in atmospheric water harvesting, and Dubai based e-waste firm WAT, which handles responsible disposal and recycling of electronics. Global circular economy leader Polygreen also received a licence, joining existing Expo City partners Carbon Assurance, Carbon Standard and RBT Collective.
The licences were presented by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, and Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali, Executive Director of Expo City Dubai Authority.
The Expo Green Licence is the first of its kind in the UAE, designed to fill a gap in the licensing market for sustainability focused businesses of all sizes and sectors. It requires applicants to demonstrate strong environmental, social and governance credentials, either through recognised ratings or an evidence based evaluation process for smaller firms.
Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, said the initiative supports the UAE's net zero and economic diversification goals. Al Marri added that the licence would help drive the objectives of the "We the UAE 2031" vision, particularly around clean energy transition and sustainable industry growth.
Licence holders gain access to a support package worth more than AED400,000, including discounted setup fees, sustainability services and promotional support. They will also benefit from international business missions, participation in the Green Majlis leadership forum and fast track access to intellectual property support through a dedicated Green IP office.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
