‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’ for hotels
New initiative aligns with UAE’s NetZero 2050 and empowers tourism sector to embrace sustainable goals
Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has launched the ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’, a new sustainability initiative that seeks to recognise hotels with the highest adherence to DET’s 19 ‘Sustainability Requirements’.
The initiative, launched in line with the UAE Year of Sustainability, is part of DET’s commitment to strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading sustainable tourism destination.
Developed in collaboration with Dubai’s hospitality sector, the new stamp is designed to accelerate efforts towards empowering the tourism sector to achieve its sustainability goals and support the UAE’s NetZero 2050 initiative. As Dubai continually strives to achieve the objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, the initiative will contribute to further consolidating the city’s status as one of the top three global destinations.
The Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp will serve as a validation of the hotel’s dedication to sustainability and showcase its sustainable practices. To obtain the stamp, hotels of all classifications must meet the highest standards of DET’s 19 Sustainability requirements, which include criteria such as energy and water efficiency, waste management programmes, and staff education and engagement initiatives. The accreditation process will be overseen by a committee of senior industry professionals to ensure integrity and independence, with the initiative designed based on global best practices.
The stamp will feature a three-tier scheme with the categories Gold, Silver and Bronze. Nominations for hotel establishments to obtain the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp will begin on 3rd August and end on 31st August.
Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance sector, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, stated: “As part of our efforts to transform Dubai into a leading sustainable tourism destination in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make our city the best place in the world to visit, live and work in, the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp champions sustainable practices while setting a benchmark for excellence in environmental stewardship, aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033. We have carefully curated a set of high standard criteria that will reward hotels that go ‘above and beyond’ in their sustainable practices. By recognising these exemplary establishments, we are encouraging others to follow suit and embrace sustainable initiatives that not only benefit their businesses but also contribute to the collective well-being of our city and the world at large.
“Supported by Dubai’s vibrant hotel industry, this initiative is a strategic step towards achieving our goal of making Dubai a leading destination for global travellers seeking the ultimate sustainability experience. By supporting businesses and encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly practices and reducing their carbon footprint, we are not only safeguarding the environment but also promoting sustainable growth.”
As Dubai prepares to host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), the UN Climate Change Conference from 30th November to 12th December this year, the launch of the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp also demonstrates the tourism industry’s foresight and determination to foster an eco-friendly sector that is both economically prosperous and environmentally responsible.
