The United Arab Emirates has entered a new chapter in its climate action journey as its landmark Climate Change and Sustainability Law (Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 On the Reduction of Climate Change Effects) officially comes into force today. Enacted by federal decree in 2023 and championed through months of consultation and coordination with regulatory bodies, this legislation places the UAE at the forefront of regional efforts to combat climate change and transition toward a sustainable economy.
The law mandates public and private sector organizations to adhere to a robust regulatory framework for measuring, managing, and mitigating their environmental impact. The aim: to institutionalize climate responsibility as an operational standard across all sectors.
Key Provisions of the Law
One of the most transformative elements of the legislation is the requirement for all relevant entities to measure and report greenhouse gas emissions using a standardized digital platform developed under the supervision of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. The law stipulates:
- Electronic emission reporting system: Organizations must input emissions data through a centralized, government-approved platform. The system ensures consistency, accountability, and real-time access to national climate performance.
- Mandatory data disclosure: Entities are obliged to report their emissions, resource consumption (including water and energy), and waste generation according to formats and timelines set by the competent authorities.
- Integration with existing systems: The law authorizes the Ministry, in coordination with other relevant agencies, to link the national reporting system with technological platforms already used by major industrial and commercial stakeholders.
“The Ministry shall, in coordination with the competent authority, establish an electronic system for emission measurement mechanisms, mechanisms for submitting the required data, and mechanisms for linking with systems approved by the competent authorities,” the decree states.
To achieve its climate objectives, the law outlines a list of acceptable sustainability strategies. These include, but are not limited to:
- Implementation of carbon offsetting programs
- Adoption of integrated waste management systems
- Use of water-saving and energy-efficiency technologies
- Engagement with any other environmentally beneficial technologies recognized by the Ministry and its partners
The law leaves room for future innovation by permitting the Ministry to identify and endorse emerging technologies deemed effective in reducing environmental impact.
Enforcement and Oversight
The legislation introduces a regulatory architecture for both monitoring compliance and imposing penalties on non-compliant entities. Entities failing to submit emissions data, falsifying reports, or neglecting to adopt required sustainability measures may face legal sanctions, fines, or suspension of operations in extreme cases.
Additionally, the law empowers government entities to conduct audits, request documentation, and coordinate with international environmental bodies to ensure alignment with global climate standards such as the Paris Agreement and Net Zero by 2050 targets.
National Commitment to Sustainability
The timing of the law’s activation is symbolic. Coming into force today May 30, 2025, it represents a significant stride in the UAE’s national strategy for climate neutrality. It follows the country’s recent presidency of COP28 and its commitment to becoming a regional model for climate resilience and innovation.
Government officials have emphasized that this law is not merely a compliance mandate but a call to action for all sectors to internalize environmental sustainability into their operational DNA.
“This law is a cornerstone in our journey toward a low-carbon, inclusive economy. It reflects the UAE’s firm belief that sustainability is the responsibility of all — governments, businesses, and individuals alike,” said a Ministry spokesperson.
Transition Support and Capacity Building
Recognizing the challenge of implementation, the government has launched several support mechanisms to ease the transition:
- Workshops and awareness campaigns across key sectors
- Technical assistance for SMEs and emerging businesses
- Capacity building programs to train sustainability officers and compliance personnel
The law also encourages knowledge-sharing between entities and the adoption of environmental innovation, including AI-driven sustainability solutions and circular economy practices.
What’s Next?
Today’s enforcement of the UAE Climate Law sends a strong message: the future of business in the country is green, accountable, and globally aligned. The success of this legislation will not only depend on regulatory oversight, but on the collective will of stakeholders to act responsibly for the planet.
As the UAE looks ahead to 2030 and beyond, this legal framework is expected to evolve with time, expanding its reach, deepening its impact, and potentially becoming a model for other countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
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