ADIB advances sustainable finance agenda with Dhs17.3 billion in sustainable finance mobilised

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) has reported the mobilisation of over Dhs17 billion in sustainable finance as of year-end 2024, marking continued progress toward its Dhs60 billion sustainable finance commitment by 2030.

 This update coincides with the release of ADIB’s 2024 Sustainability Report, which details material advancements in climate alignment, ESG governance, and inclusive growth in line with UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy and UAE 2031 vision.

 This year’s report highlights key achievements, including the publication of ADIB’s first sector-specific financed emissions targets, making it the first Islamic bank in the region to set such interim 2030 targets.

 These cover six high-emission sectors, such as real estate, utilities, and home finance, aligned with IEA Net Zero scenarios and the UAE’s national decarbonisation strategy.

 As part of its commitment to international best practices, ADIB also conducted a double materiality assessment in accordance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) to evaluate both the financial and societal impacts of its activities, a critical step to understand the material impacts, risks and opportunities (IROs) on the economy, environment, and people.

 ADIB’s Double Materiality Assessment was performed within the context of each of the ESRS topical standards, covering environmental, social, and governance issues.

 ADIB also published its inaugural Green Sukuk allocation and impact report for its US$500 million Green Sukuk issuance. As of December 2024, 90 percent of proceeds have been allocated toward renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable water infrastructure, contributing to over 607,000 tonnes of estimated annual avoided emissions.

 Operationally, ADIB reported an 87 percent drop in Scope 1 emissions compared to 2022 and a 3.51 per cent reduction in Scope 2. These improvements reflect continued investments in energy efficiency, electrification, and operational optimisation across the Group.

 Commenting on this, Mohamed Abdelbary, Group Chief Executive Officer at ADIB, said, “Putting sustainability at the heart of what we do is one of the three key pillars of our 2035 vision. We’re proud of the progress we’re making, and how we're using our financing to contribute to the transition of our customers and the economy. Our latest sustainability disclosures reflect our steadfast commitment to ethical, inclusive, and climate-aligned banking. From leading the region in green sukuk to setting the benchmark on sectoral decarbonisation, we are taking decisive steps toward a low-carbon future.

 Abdelbary added, “Our double materiality assessment reinforces ADIB’s commitment to credible, decision-useful disclosure. It ensures we understand not only how sustainability impacts our business but how our business impacts the environment, society and economy. This is central to how we plan, report and act.

 ADIB continued to strengthen its social impact agenda in, achieving a 44 percent Emiratisation rate, with women comprising 72 per cent of UAE national hires and 39 per cent of the total workforce.

WAM