In a move that cements its position as a global sustainability hub, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, in partnership with Expo City Dubai, has unveiled the UAE’s first Green Innovation District — a landmark initiative integrating industrial growth with environmental responsibility and social impact.

Developed in collaboration with four strategic partners, the Green Innovation District will serve as a catalyst for sustainable industrial development, attracting eco-conscious businesses in clean energy, circular economy, and green technology. The project aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, Centennial 2071 Plan, and National Investment Strategy 2031, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to economic diversification and climate action.

Located at Expo City Dubai — a free zone known for its sustainability infrastructure and legacy from Expo 2020 and COP28 — the district is strategically positioned between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, connecting Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport to boost global trade, according to Emirates News Agency (WAM).

“The launch of the UAE’s first Green Innovation District marks a major milestone in advancing the nation’s long-term economic and climate ambitions,” said Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. “The District will serve as an incubative environment for enterprises driving the UAE’s green and circular economy transition, creating sustainable solutions that link prosperity with environmental stewardship.”

The initiative is underpinned by the Ministry’s new Green Intellectual Property (IP) roadmap, designed to accelerate innovation, technology localization, and the development of green economy projects.

Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, said the District “builds on Expo City’s sustainability credentials to cultivate an interconnected community operating on a circular economy model,” adding that it will become a “highly attractive destination for eco-conscious businesses worldwide.”

Strategic partners include Intesa Sanpaolo, one of Europe’s leading banks specializing in circular economy finance; Nestlé, contributing research and technical expertise to advance sustainable manufacturing; Majra, the UAE’s National Corporate Social Responsibility Fund, which will channel environmental projects into the district; and Palmade, a Dubai-born company turning palm leaves into biodegradable products.

Expo City will also introduce the UAE’s first Green Licence, offering incentives to companies committed to environmental and social sustainability. At the same time, the Ministry of Economy will establish an IP Office at the site to promote R&D.

Designed as a blueprint for sustainable urban development, Expo City holds pre-certification for LEED Platinum and WELL Community Gold standards. In 2026, it will host the Green Investopia conference, spotlighting trends in sustainable investment and strengthening the UAE’s role as a global hub for green growth.

“The Green Innovation District is a collective effort to empower SMEs, drive circular innovation, and promote green intellectual property that translates into real environmental and economic impact,” said Dr. Maria Hanif Al Qassim, Assistant Under-Secretary for Policies and Economic Studies at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism.

By uniting key players in sustainability, innovation, and finance, the Green Innovation District positions the UAE at the forefront of green industrial transformation, redefining how cities of the future balance economic progress with planetary well-being.