Dubai has launched a sustainability scheme that will see hotels graded ‘gold’, ‘silver’ or ‘bronze’ based on their practices.
The city’s department of economy and tourism (DET) is inviting applicants for a ‘Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp’, with the nomination window running from August 3 until August 31.
Hotels will be assessed on a range of criteria, including energy and water efficiency, waste management programmes and staff education initiatives.
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Yousuf Lootah, the DET’s acting chief executive of corporate strategy and performance, said: “This initiative is a strategic step towards achieving our goal of making Dubai a leading destination for global travellers seeking the ultimate sustainability experience.”
To gain a stamp, which will feature a three-tier scheme, hotels must prove they meet the highest standards of the DET’s 19 sustainability requirements, with the accreditation process overseen by a committee.
The DET said the group of senior industry professionals will protect the scheme’s integrity and independence.
The department added that the new stamp is designed to support the United Arab Emirates’ Net Zero 2050 initiative.
Lootah said: “We have carefully curated a set of high-standard criteria that will reward hotels that go above and beyond in their sustainable practices.
“By recognising these exemplary establishments, we are encouraging others to follow suit and embrace sustainable initiatives that not only benefit their businesses but also contribute to the collective wellbeing of our city and the world at large.”
He added that encouraging businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce their carbon footprint will protect the environment and promote sustainable growth.