The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is prioritizing the transition to a circular economy as an essential pillar for the nation’s economic and social progress, according to discussions at the World Economic Forum.
During a session titled “Turning Plastic Waste into Raw Materials: Fueling the Circular Economy,” held at the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (Davos 2025), Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Circular Economy Council, highlighted the nation’s strategic efforts in adopting circular economy principles. The event, themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” underscored the critical importance of sustainable economic models in addressing global environmental and economic challenges.
UAE’s Commitment to Sustainability
Minister bin Touq emphasized the UAE’s leadership in circular economy initiatives, noting the country’s proactive measures to tackle environmental issues, reduce carbon emissions, and minimize waste. These efforts align with the UAE’s broader objectives of fostering sustainable development.
The UAE has been a pioneer in forging global partnerships, including being one of the first countries to join the World Economic Forum’s Scale360° initiative, which focuses on accelerating circular economy practices.
The session explored various aspects of the circular economy, including the transformation of plastic waste into recyclable raw materials. Discussions also delved into adopting advanced recycling technologies and implementing business strategies to secure a reliable supply of raw materials while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Circular Economy Agenda 2031
Minister bin Touq outlined the UAE’s comprehensive strategy for embedding circular economy principles into its development framework. A cornerstone of this approach is the UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031, a national roadmap designed to promote sustainable production and consumption patterns. The agenda fosters collaboration across sectors and aims to attract investments in natural resources while advancing transformative environmental practices.
The agenda includes 22 policies across four critical sectors:
- Manufacturing
- Food
- Infrastructure
- Transportation
These policies emphasize the adoption of cutting-edge recycling technologies, driving innovation, ensuring raw material supply stability, and enhancing economic competitiveness. They also aim to generate economic returns, create job opportunities, and promote sustainable partnerships with private sector stakeholders.
Encouraging Investments and Partnerships
Minister bin Touq encouraged stakeholders to seize the investment opportunities presented by the circular economy and leverage the UAE’s advanced infrastructure to establish sustainable initiatives. He stressed that addressing challenges such as climate change and global economic shifts requires integrating circular economy models that reduce environmental and resource constraints.
To achieve these goals, the UAE is focused on increasing awareness and building the capacity of stakeholders in adopting innovative technologies, methodologies, and business models that drive the circular economy. These initiatives contribute to preserving natural resources, improving consumption efficiency, and minimizing waste.
Innovation and Cross-Border Collaboration
In a separate session on the sidelines of the Forum, bin Touq highlighted the role of innovation and advanced technologies in strengthening circular economy activities. He underscored their importance in sectors such as sustainable manufacturing, smart transportation, and clean energy.
The Minister also emphasized the need for a seamless and secure cross-border business environment to support exporters, logistics companies, ports, and other entities critical to facilitating circular economy practices.
Global Leadership in Sustainable Development
Reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, Minister bin Touq reiterated the nation’s dedication to advancing sustainable practices locally, regionally, and globally. The UAE aims to lead by example, demonstrating how environmental stewardship can coexist with robust economic growth.
As the host of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28), the UAE has gained international recognition for its leadership in addressing climate change and supporting global initiatives for sustainable development. The country’s efforts showcase its unwavering commitment to balancing environmental protection with economic prosperity, paving the way for a sustainable future for current and future generations.
Source : https://www.arabianbusiness.com/politics-economics/uae-highlights-investment-potential-in-circular-economy
