In a new milestone reaffirming its global leadership in sustainable development, Dubai has received the Gold Certification from the UN-Habitat SDG Cities Programme. The recognition was announced during the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum 2025, hosted by Expo Dubai, in the presence of H.E. Abdulla Al Basti, the Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, His Excellency Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh is the Director General of the Government of Dubai's Department of Finance, H.E. Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, H.E. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid is the Director General of the Community Development Authority (CDA) in the Government of Dubai, H.E. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, H.E. Aisha Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai, H.E. Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, H.E. Dr. Alawi Al Sheikh Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority and Dr. Ayman El Hefnawi, Representative of the UN-Habitat for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The announcement came alongside the launch of Dubai’s Voluntary Local Review (VLR), the first of its kind in the region, highlighting the emirate’s commitment to aligning local strategies with the global sustainable development agenda through a data-driven governance model and measurable impact.
On this occasion, H.E. Abdulla Al Basti stated: His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “Dubai’s journey is a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Guided by this vision, Dubai has adopted a sustainable, human-centred model that aspires to make it the best and most beautiful city in the world. This approach derives its strength from the efficiency and integration of the government ecosystem, unified by a common purpose. It seeks to anticipate needs, create opportunities, and enable ideas that preserve the environment and shape a brighter future for generations to come.”
H.E. added: “Dubai’s recognition in the United Nations’ SDG Cities Programme for 2025 is a reflection of the city’s steadfast commitment to advancing comprehensive and inclusive sustainability. We remain dedicated to sharing our best practices and accumulated expertise with partners around the world, while continuing to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for living, working, achievement, and ambition because Dubai’s present builds its sustainable future.”
H.E. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori commended this achievement, saying: "This award is a collective success for Dubai. Our accomplishments in sustainability are the result of close collaboration among 13 government entities that worked together to translate global aspirations into tangible local impact. It is a testament to Dubai’s governance model, forward-looking vision, and its unwavering commitment to making sustainability a tangible reality rather than a stated ideal.
H.E. added that Digital Dubai is proud to contribute to this journey through the shared digital platforms, integrated data ecosystems, and AI-driven insights, noting that “every figure in Dubai tells a story, every story informs a decision, and every decision reflects the human dimension and the values of sustainability.”
Al Mansoori emphasized that the Gold Certification marks not the ultimate goal, but the beginning of a new chapter in Dubai’s sustainability journey, with the next goal being for Dubai to become the first city in the world to achieve the Platinum Certification from the SDG Cities Program.
"We call on our teams to strengthen partnerships with the private sector, develop innovative financing mechanisms for sustainable development, and invest in human and institutional capital, the true foundation of progress. Dubai’s journey has always been guided by a higher purpose; to serve people, enhance quality of life, and build an economy driven by knowledge and opportunity."
This achievement reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to digital sustainability, harnessing technology and data as catalysts for a better future for all, in alignment with its leadership’s vision of shaping progress that serves humanity “.
The Gold Certification from the SDG Cities Program is awarded to cities demonstrating a comprehensive and measurable commitment to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals through integrated, results-oriented policies across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
It is among the highest distinctions granted by UN-Habitat, following a rigorous assessment based on more than 70 indicators covering governance, innovation, quality of life, infrastructure, and sustainability.
The Voluntary Local Review (VLR) launched by Dubai during the summit serves as a comprehensive assessment of the city’s progress toward the SDGs. It highlights achievements and challenges while offering a model for evidence-based urban governance and impact-driven city planning.
The report was developed in collaboration with 13 government entities, showcasing Dubai’s pioneering experience in integrating local strategies with the global sustainability agenda.
