At WGES 2025, UAE Reaffirms Its Global Climate Leadership Through Water Innovation and Financial Initiatives Ahead of COP30 and the 2026 UN Water Conference
DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has firmly established itself as a pivotal player on the global stage, particularly in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable water management. This was clearly demonstrated during the recent World Green Economy Summit (WGES) 2025, held in the vibrant city of Dubai. The event served as a significant platform for the UAE to showcase its strategic initiatives and ambitious goals, particularly in the lead-up to the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) and the upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference.
Abdulla Balalaa, the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, played a crucial role at the summit. He engaged in two high-level sessions, emphasizing the urgent need for transformative action rather than mere commitments. “The choices we make now will define climate outcomes for decades,” Balalaa asserted, calling for a shift from policy discussions to actionable solutions.
Among the numerous initiatives outlined by Balalaa was the ambitious US billion Alterra Fund, which aims to bolster climate finance notably in renewable energy projects. Additionally, the UAE Banks Federation has embarked on an impressive AED 1 trillion sustainable finance initiative, a move designed to spur investment in sustainable infrastructure and climate resilience. Furthermore, the Africa Green Investment Initiative, which targets an impressive 15 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy generation in Africa by the year 2030, further exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and supporting green energy initiatives across the globe.
These strategies reflect the UAE’s climate vision established through the UAE Consensus at COP28 and its steadfast commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050. Platforms such as Masdar, the GAGE platform, and the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO) continue to amplify the UAE’s innovative approach to climate finance, particularly through the promotion of Green Sukuk and the mobilization of private capital. The emphasis on blended finance mechanisms positions the UAE as a progressive leader in tackling climate-related challenges at scale.
In another pivotal session titled ‘On the Road to the 2026 UN Water Conference’, Balalaa focused on the critical importance of water security. The UAE’s role as a co-leader with Senegal in shaping the conference’s agenda was emphasized, further highlighting its dedication to global water initiatives. Balalaa passionately advocated for accelerated progress concerning SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), underscoring the necessity of investments and partnerships to achieve this goal.
“Water connects all dimensions of sustainable development,” Balalaa elaborated, emphasizing the intricate relationship between water access and broader sustainability goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action). He reiterated that fostering collaboration and innovative investments will be pivotal to ensuring that water security is addressed as a part of the broader climate conversation.
In a powerful conclusion to his speech, Balalaa reiterated the UAE’s commitment to an inclusive approach toward sustainable development, recognizing the essential roles of youth, women, and vulnerable communities. He stated, “An inclusive strategy will ensure that all stakeholders are equipped to contribute to our collective goals for sustainability and climate resilience.”
As the UAE continues its path toward sustainable leadership ahead of COP30 and the 2026 UN Water Conference, its focus on water innovation and climate finance stands as a testament to its proactive engagement in addressing global challenges, thus setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
In light of these developments, it is evident that the UAE will remain at the forefront of the global discourse on sustainability, innovation, and investment, influencing not just the Middle East but the entire world.
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