Dubai 'aims to become global hub for green economy'

Dubai's Supreme Council of Energy is currently reviewing plans that would see the emirate become a global hub for a green economy.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, vice-chairman of the council, explained: "To achieve the Dubai Plan 2021 to make Dubai a smart, integrated and connected city that uses its resources sustainably with high-tech infrastructure that supports social and economic development and to be on a par with the best cities in the world, the Supreme Council of Energy has highlighted the Smart Dubai initiative by [Sheikh] Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum."

He added that the project will make the emirate the smartest city in the world within the next three years by rolling out more than 100 initiatives and 1,000 smart services that aim to improve the quality of life for residents and tourists, while also achieving Dubai's sustainable development goals.

Mr Al Tayer explained that the council reviewed the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, as well as schemes, innovations and green projects such as sustainable transportation and retrofitting buildings.  

Furthermore, plans that promote the use of electric, hybrid and environment-friendly cars are being introduced in the emirate, including enhancing green infrastructure to help charge these types of vehicles - which is the first initiative of its kind in the UAE.

A scheme to build a skills centre to develop talent in Dubai, teach people about sustainable energy, and focus on research and development was also reviewed. If approved, this initiative will support the emirate's vision to become a smart city with the world's best clean energy and water technology.

Ahmed Buti Al Muhairbi, secretary-general of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, added that he and his colleagues are currently preparing to roll out workshops for government departments and organisations to discuss and evaluate the launch of schemes to reduce fuel consumption and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.