The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) is actively conducting a study focused on the issuance of green and sustainability certificates for both government and commercial buildings. This initiative aims to enhance energy and water consumption efficiency across the nation.
Global Energy Efficiency Alliance for UAE green building initiatives
Sharif Al Olama, the under-secretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, emphasized that the launch of the “Global Energy Efficiency Alliance,” spearheaded by the UAE, is designed to share expertise, global best practices, and successful projects in improving energy efficiency. In statements made to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025, Al Olama noted that efforts are underway to initiate a tender to boost the efficiency of over 400 government buildings. He also highlighted a pilot project in collaboration with Aldar Properties, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and several specialized energy solution companies.
Read more: UAE launches new guide to enhance financial sustainability across federal entities
National Green Certificates Program for UAE green building initiatives
In July 2024, MoEI introduced the National Green Certificates Program, which promotes environmentally friendly building practices in alignment with the objectives of the National Demand-side Management Program and the National Green Building Regulation. This program establishes specific standards for building classification regarding energy efficiency, water management, indoor air quality, and the use of sustainable building materials.
Technical support for UAE green building initiatives
MoEI plans to provide technical support and consultations for participating businesses to ensure they achieve the highest levels of sustainability. To promote the program, the ministry has signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). The first MoU was established with First Abu Dhabi Bank, focusing on exploring potential collaborations in green finance solutions to enhance the UAE’s built environment sector. This collaboration includes participation in the National Green Certificates Program and supporting the UAE’s energy efficiency targets through innovative financing solutions, alongside the development and promotion of green finance products for the built environment sector.
Collaborations to enhance UAE green building initiatives
The second MoU, signed with Aldar Properties, aims to implement green finance solutions specifically tailored to enhance the built environment sector in the UAE. This partnership includes Aldar Properties’ participation in the program, exploring financing opportunities, and providing technical services. They also agreed to work together on initiatives that promote energy-efficient practices and technologies in the sector.
Supporting carbon credits through UAE green building initiatives
Moreover, the third MoU, established with Pact Carbon, allows the company to join the program and assist other participants in accessing global markets to sell carbon credits. The fourth MoU was signed with Meagle Energy, aimed at creating a cooperative framework to provide energy auditing and Measurement and Verification (M&V) services to the Ministry for the National Green Certificates Program. Meagle Energy will conduct energy audits following standards and guidelines set by MoEI.
