During COP29, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to global collective action on climate change, emphasizing its aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Dr. Amina bint Abdullah Al-Dahhak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, underscored the UAE’s dedication to multilateral cooperation and inclusivity to meet global climate goals.
Her statements came in the UAE’s address at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, attended by global leaders and representatives under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
The UAE reiterated its ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through efforts including tripling renewable energy capacity, doubling energy efficiency by 2030, and investing $55 billion (AED 200 billion) by the same year.
Al-Dahhak emphasized the importance of the UAE hosting COP28 last year in Dubai and the significant outcomes achieved. She passed the leadership baton to COP29 in Baku, expressing confidence in Azerbaijan’s ability to build on past successes to create a sustainable future for generations to come.
Highlighting the UAE’s efforts to maintain the momentum of COP28, she detailed strategic initiatives leveraging innovation, technology, and partnerships for sustainable impact. Among these is the “Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative,” aimed at developing innovative solutions to address global water scarcity. The UAE is also preparing to co-host the UN Water Conference in 2026 with Senegal, furthering efforts toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6.
Dr. Al-Dahhak reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to the shared vision of the COP Presidencies’ Troika (COP28, COP29, COP30), working closely with Azerbaijan and Brazil to ensure continuity in efforts to accelerate the global energy transition, enhance climate finance, and advance adaptation and resilience.
Emphasizing Technology and Climate Finance
She highlighted technology as a cornerstone for accelerating climate action, referencing the UAE’s breakthrough in October 2024, using green hydrogen to produce iron and steel. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, which aims to position the country as a leading producer and exporter of low-emission hydrogen by 2031.
During COP29 negotiations, the UAE will prioritize achieving the ambitious New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate finance. This goal aims to provide accessible and affordable climate finance for Global South nations. Additionally, the UAE plans to further implement Article 6 of the Paris Agreement to facilitate effective climate action.
Dr. Al-Dahhak affirmed the UAE’s commitment to balanced outcomes across all COP29 pillars, including mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage, just transitions, water, technology, and enhanced participation of women and youth.
She concluded by stating, “There is no room for hesitation. As our wise leadership in the UAE asserts, climate action is an opportunity, not a burden.”
