Sheikh Ahmed inaugurates World Green Economy Summit in Dubai

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, inaugurated on Wednesday the 12th edition of the World Green Economy Summit (WGES) and emphasised the importance of international cooperation in supporting the transition to a competitive and sustainable green economy, while balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “Guided by the vision of our leadership, the UAE continues to advance its pioneering approach, making sustainability a cornerstone of development, innovation a driver of growth and international partnerships a foundation for a more prosperous future. Dubai, in turn, continues to cement its position as a leading global hub for advancing the transition to a green economy.

The World Green Economy Summit brings together leaders, policymakers and experts to unite efforts, share expertise and accelerate innovative solutions that turn climate challenges into opportunities for economic growth and technological advancement. The Summit also expands international cooperation and mobilises efforts and investments to support the green transition, enhance economic competitiveness and lay the foundations for sustainable development that balances economic prosperity with the protection of natural resources, ensuring a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

The World Green Economy Summit (WGES) is being held at Dubai World Trade Centre on 21 and 22 October 2026 under the theme ‘From Success to Scale: Showcasing the Green Economy’.

WGES continues to strengthen its position as a global platform for dialogue, collaboration and the exchange of expertise in the green economy, clean energy and climate action. It brings together leading figures, decision-makers, government officials, experts, specialists and representatives of the private sector and international organisations. This year’s edition focuses on moving beyond achievements to scale up sustainable solutions, technologies and investments, supporting global efforts to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and advance sustainable development.

The opening ceremony featured the keynote speech of Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD & CEO of DEWA and Chairman of WGEO; Sheikha Dr Shamma Mohammed Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the Board of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural & Educational Institutions; Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Energy and Sustainability; and Darren Kimura, President and CEO of AISquared.

In his opening speech, Al Tayer said: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the 12th edition of the World Green Economy Summit, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. I would like to begin by extending my sincere appreciation and gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum for honouring the summit with his presence. I also warmly welcome the guests of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.”

“Guided by the inspiring vision of the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE has continued to consolidate its global standing in sustainability and climate action while strengthening its leadership in building a sustainable green economy that stands as a global model for development and future prosperity. This year’s summit theme ‘From Success to Scale: Showcasing the Green Economy’, embodies our ambition to move from the pioneering phase to the phase of global empowerment.

Today, the question is no longer whether the green economy is the right choice, but how we can accelerate its adoption, broaden its reach and amplify its impact so that it becomes a leading driver of sustainable development and economic prosperity around the world. Over the course of the summit, we will hold discussions across Energy Technology & Infrastructure; Business Strategy & Transition; Water & Food Security; Finance and other topics,” added Al Tayer. Al Tayer explained that the green economy has become a core part of global growth, investment and energy systems. Global energy investment is expected to reach around $3.4 trillion in 2026, of which around $2.2 trillion will go to clean energy, power grids, storage and other low-emission areas, nearly double the combined investment in oil, gas and coal. According to a report by the London Stock Exchange Group, the market value of the global green economy surpassed the $10 trillion mark by mid-2026 – even amid energy shocks, supply disruptions, policy divergence and market volatility.

WAM