Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced the 2nd edition of its Future Sustainability Forum, set to take place on December 4 and 5, 2024, at the Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. The event, which will bring together over 3,000 participants, is designed to foster sustainable practices across industries, furthering UAE’s commitment to transitioning towards greener economies.
The Forum aligns with the UAE leadership’s vision to fast-track the shift towards sustainability, focusing on key sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable technology, banking, finance, and waste management. This year’s event also marks the first anniversary of COP28 being hosted in the UAE, reinforcing the nation’s efforts to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.
Alya Al Zarouni, Chief Operating Officer of DIFC Authority and Co-Chair of the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, expressed the significance of the forum, stating: “The DIFC organised Future Sustainability Forum is a vital platform for collaborative action towards a more sustainable future. As the global economic landscape evolves, so must our commitment to responsible and inclusive growth. At DIFC, we are proud to be convening this gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to address the most pressing environmental and social challenges of our time.”
The event will highlight discussions on sustainable development, environmental conservation, social equity, and innovation. The Forum, which includes over 100 expert speakers, will address eight core pillars, including banking, renewable energy, manufacturing, transportation, waste management, and agriculture. The sessions aim to drive investment flows from the global north to south, accelerating climate action and fostering sustainable partnerships.
Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO of the Commercial Bank of Dubai, the presenting sponsor of the Forum, said, “Commercial Bank of Dubai is proud to support the UAE’s sustainability ambitions through our participation in the Future Sustainability Forum 2024 as Presenting Sponsor. Our proactive approach in addressing environmental challenges, exemplified by the successful issuance of CBD’s inaugural green bond, demonstrates our alignment with global environmental goals.”
Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore innovative solutions through the Climate Action & Renewable Energy Expo (CARE), showcasing sustainability advancements across the globe.
DIFC’s initiatives, such as the Sustainable Finance Catalyst, aim to mobilize over USD 100 billion in sustainable finance from Dubai by 2030, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to green growth. Government programs like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero 2050 initiative reinforce this vision, emphasizing renewable energy adoption and sustainable development for the future.