DIFC to Host Future Sustainability Forum Amid UAE’s Push for Green Economy Leadership

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is set to host the second edition of the Future Sustainability Forum on December 4-5, 2024, gathering global thought leaders, investors, and policymakers to drive international cooperation in sustainable finance, energy, technology, and infrastructure. The Forum is part of DIFC’s ongoing commitment to supporting the UAE’s vision for green economic leadership in line with the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This announcement coincides with the first anniversary of COP28 in the UAE, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s sustainability journey. The Forum is anticipated to attract over 3,000 participants from diverse sectors, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to transforming financial systems and business practices to achieve net-zero goals by 2050.

“The Future Sustainability Forum represents a crucial step in the UAE’s mission to align its financial strategies with sustainable development goals,” said Alya Al Zarouni, DIFC’s Chief Operating Officer. “We are honored to bring together global leaders to collectively forge pathways toward a sustainable economy that balances environmental responsibility with economic growth.”

Forum to Highlight Cross-Industry Sustainability

The Forum’s agenda spans eight key sustainability pillars: banking and finance, infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, technology, waste management, manufacturing, and transportation. Each pillar addresses critical aspects of sustainable development across sectors with a goal to mobilize capital and innovation for greener practices.

Prominent industry voices, including Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority; Janelle Meyers, Chief Sustainability Officer at Kellanova (USA); and Ralph Dixon, Sustainability Executive Director at YTL Corporation (Singapore), are expected to lead discussions on the future of green economies. A Climate Action & Renewable Energy Expo (CARE) will also run alongside the event, providing a platform for global exhibitors to showcase cutting-edge sustainable solutions.

The Commercial Bank of Dubai is the presenting sponsor for this year’s Forum. CEO Dr. Bernd van Linder emphasized the bank’s alignment with the UAE’s sustainability ambitions, highlighting its recent issuance of a green bond as part of broader environmental initiatives.

DIFC’s Strategic Role in MEASA Region

DIFC has been pivotal in advancing sustainable finance within the MEASA (Middle East, Africa, and South Asia) region. Through its Sustainable Finance Catalyst, DIFC aims to boost sustainable finance flows from Dubai to over USD 100 billion by 2030, connecting MEASA markets with global investors focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.

With a network of over 6,150 active registered companies and 44,000 professionals, DIFC continues to shape financial and economic frameworks that prioritize responsible growth. “As a financial hub, DIFC is not only fostering economic ties across continents but also leading efforts in green finance and sustainability,” added Zarouni.