Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in United Arab Emirates
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in the United Arab Emirates:
Press Release
06 July 2023
UN launches campaign, calling for renewed global ambition and action for the Sustainable Development Goals
New York, 5 July 2023 - The United Nations, kicked off a communications campaign to rally for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the roadmap for people and planet adopted by world leaders in 2015. Ahead of a critical UN Summit in September, the campaign aims to amplify an urgent call for ambitious new action, showcase the Goals as the blueprint for sustainable progress globally, and galvanize the global public around this shared agenda for our common future.
At halftime toward the deadline of 2030, the promise of the SDGs is in peril. For the first time in decades, development progress is reversing under the combined impacts of climate disasters, conflict, economic downturn and lingering COVID-19 effects.
The 2023 SDG Summit will gather world leaders at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 18-19 September to reaffirm their collective commitments to the Goals and the promise to leave no one behind. This Summit is a defining moment to urgently put the world back on track to achieving the SDGs.
“We want to get everyone on board for the SDGs”, said Nanette Braun, Director of Campaigns in the UN Department for Global Communications. “Our hope is that decision-makers and individual citizens alike will feel inspired to join the conversation and contribute to achieving the Goals with new resolve and ambition.”
Building off the color wheel brand of the SDGs, the campaign uses a dynamic new visual system for its messaging to build momentum, raise awareness and mobilize accelerated action for the SDGs.
One core campaign component is the call to individual citizens to take action on the SDGs through the UN’s ActNow initiative across all 17 Goals. From using public transportation, to fundraising for schools or speaking up for equality, the platform lists steps that everyone can take to accelerate progress on the SDGs and create better lives on a healthier planet for all.
A curated group of high-profile influencers, the Circle of Supporters, will galvanize their communities to take individual action on the SDGs and to impress upon decision-makers the urgency to act now.
More information on the SDG Summit is available at: https://www.un.org/en/conferences/SDGSummit2023
1 of 5
Publication
24 May 2023
2022 Annual Results Report
While leveraging a broad scope of mandates from the United Nations entities working in and with the UAE, the year 2022 presented new opportunities for the UN Country Team to strengthen its long-standing partnership and engagements in the country. This report highlights the achievements and contributions of the United Nations in its joint work with the UAE through its high-level policy advice, technical advisory support, regional and national programmes, and humanitarian outreach.
1 of 5
Video
12 January 2023
UN in UAE Working Together as One
Marking the UN’s 77 years of humanity, and over 51 years of strategic partnership with the UAE, “ONE UN in UAE” is a digital campaign launched to highlight the collective role of the United Nations, working together to achieve common goals in and with the UAE. The UN in the UAE is working hand in hand for a better future, with over 30 UN agencies covering the UAE. The UN in the UAE’s work spans across various areas and sectors, with all UN agencies progressing towards a better future through their collective efforts.
For the past 51 years, the UN agencies in the UAE have all left their mark by providing the needed voice for cultural and educational advancements, children and women rights advocacy, as well as international reach to neighboring countries and across the globe especially during emergencies and humanitarian crises. The largest World Food Programme’s (WFP) logistics hub globally is in Dubai. Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) can reach all 6 regions from the UAE, with its fast response and strategic location.
The work of the UN agencies in the UAE covers many fields, from humanitarian, education, biodiversity, climate action, tourism, technology and even cultural, while keeping the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the heart of their work. The video sheds light on some of the educational and cultural efforts by UNESCO and UNICEF, while achieving their national priorities. While other UN agencies such as UNFPA and UNHCR, focus their efforts on leaving no one behind. With a focus on gender equality, UN Women and World Trade Organization are also empowering more women into their portfolios and programs.
Aligning with the countries sustainability efforts and environmental policies, the preservation of native species such as the dugongs and integrating technologies in agriculture for food security are important to the work of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Recognizing the power of partnerships, the UN Global Compact convenes the private sector to deliver on their sustainability business targets through the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, with over 17,000 companies across 165 countries and with a local network in UAE. Similarly, the work of the United Nations cannot be achieved without the help of its motivated and committed young volunteers, which is how the UN Volunteers extends its support to the UN system, making sure to integrate young talents with the collective work of the UN whenever needed.
The work of the UN agencies in the UAE is carried out with dedication and passion towards helping the world become a better place. To know more about the UN agencies, work and progress in the UAE, watch the video series and hear directly from UN staff members who share about their work and experiences here.
1 of 5

Story
14 November 2022
Youth-Led Climate Action in the UAE
“Resistance becomes easier when it is rooted within the community”. As the 20-year-old climate justice activist Ayshka Najib strives to fight the climate crisis, she is encouraged by the many youth-led climate advocacy initiatives and campaigns that have started to gain momentum. “Collective action is the key to solving our crisis, so I encourage everyone to take a step forward and join this global movement”. This is Hoor Alrais’ call to action for her generation. As a young climate justice advocate, she passionately urges youth to help make a change and to be an inspiration. We are at a defining moment for our planet, as there is no place on the globe that is immune to the impact of climate change. Climate change also has profound impacts on a wide variety of human rights, including the rights to life, self-determination, development, food, health, water and sanitation, and housing. Humanity, however, is not powerless in the face of this global threat.
It is certain there is dire need for change. But not all change has to start off in big manners. Even the smallest of efforts can alter how the future will be. Hoor started off her climate advocacy mission by taking part in a local clean-up within her community, but she felt that she could do more. She was motivated by the unity and drive of her fellow volunteers. The importance of individual and collective action grew clear to her. From then on, she made it her mission to be one with nature and raise awareness on the threats of climate change. Her efforts to protect the environment, led her to being named one of the UAE Nature Ambassadors. She has also represented the UAE in international conferences and conventions advocating for a better future for her generation.
Similarly, Ayshka believes that she, as an individual has a responsibility towards her society. She implements her vision of a better world through her work with the UNICEF Gulf Area Office, in the capacity-building of young people in the UAE and the MENA region on climate change. While further noticing that climate change isn’t gender neutral and disproportionally affects marginalized groups of people, in 2021 she joined the UN Women and the Generation Equality Campaign. Working as the youth lead on the Feminist Action for Climate Justice Action Coalition to push for recognizing the intersectionality of gender equality and climate justice in decision making spaces as well as at the grassroots level. From representing the UAE in mock COP (Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC) sessions, to being a delegate for UN Women at the Vienna Café sessions, Ayshka has shown great determination and has become an inspiration for her peers: “With God’s will, we shall continue to work to protect our environment and our wildlife, as did our forefathers before us”. She is particularly inspired by UAE’ founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a sustainability pioneer in his own right who tackled environmental issues with admirable foresight.
With the approach of COP27, hosted by Egypt in 2022, and COP28, hosted by the UAE in 2023, both of these young activists have high hopes and ambitions for the path ahead. Ayshka hopes to advocate on two main fronts as COP27 takes place in Egypt this November. Firstly, mainstreaming a gender perspective when addressing climate change, adaptation, and disaster risk reduction. Her second, but not less important priority, is the mainstreaming of youth participation and intergenerational equity in policy development and implementation. On the other hand, Hoor’s aspiration for COP27 is to come out with action-oriented solutions and facilitate it as a place to inspire young people, where they can lead the climate movement.
Every step matters, and every voice counts. Our communities need more young people like Hoor and Ayshka, who are tirelessly advocating to help make our future greener, more equitable, and more prosperous.
The commitment of the UAE in raising voices of the youth and giving everyone equal opportunities in the field is remarkable, as are their ambitions and strategic efforts to tackle the climate crisis. They have notably pledged to become the first MENA country to reach net zero by 2050. The Emirates has also facilitated youth-inclusive spaces across the nation, such as consultations and youth networks. In return, young people have become part of this change.
With the presence of over thirty agencies, funds and programmes, the United Nations in the UAE is continuously striving to involve young people and provide them with the platform to let their voices be heard. “We believe it is always important to engage with all stakeholders and share best practices, lessons learned, and common challenges through different platforms, formats, and channels.”, said Dr Dena Assaf, United Nations Resident Coordinator for the United Arab Emirates, urging people to take action to save humanity; “if we don’t take care of our habitat, we will become extinct”.
Every step matters, and every voice counts. Our communities need more young people like Hoor and Ayshka, who are tirelessly advocating to help make our future greener, more equitable, and more prosperous.
1 of 5

Take Action
20 May 2021
Verified Campaign
Fighting misinformation by flooding the Internet with science, solutions and solidarity.
Become an Information Volunteer! Get a daily Verified briefing. Share life-saving information with your networks.
1 of 5

Story
21 August 2023
Solidarity in Crisis: The UN's Collaborative Humanitarian Action from the UAE
In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria on February 6 of this year, the United Nations (UN) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) joined forces to mount a comprehensive and strategic response aimed at providing vital emergency relief to those affected.
With a magnitude of 7.8, the earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria more than 6 months ago have claimed thousands of lives and caused untold destruction to homes and infrastructure across the region. Considered to be one of the devastating disasters in the region in recent times, over 9 million people in Türkiye and at least 8.8 million people in Syria have been directly impacted. Tens of thousands of people have been killed and injured. Thousands of buildings including schools and hospitals have collapsed.
Immediate Response from the UAE
Within hours of the devastating crisis, the UN immediately issued a global appeal for aid and mobilized its resources to provide urgent assistance, evaluate the risks, and rally efforts to ensure that no one is left behind. The UN's role as a catalyst for international collaboration in times of crisis is yet again monumental at such dire times. Among the key partners and first responders was the UN Country team for the UAE, reflecting the UAE’s ongoing commitment to providing humanitarian aid and supporting communities affected by disasters around the world. From the world’s largest humanitarian hub in Dubai, the International Humanitarian City (IHC) hosts multiple warehouses and storage facilities for UN agencies. Due to its favorable geographic proximity, the IHC has been a key location in supporting rapid response to crises across the globe and facilitating humanitarian air bridges.
Airlifts were dispatched carrying health kits, medical equipment, emergency relief items and essential survival kits such as: food, shelter, family tents, blankets, water and sanitation and health supplies from multiple UN agencies including: The World Health Organization (WHO), UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), World Food Programme (WFP), and UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) amongst others.
“The importance of our Dubai-based facilities in the response to the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria cannot be overstated. The geographic location and its proximity to the impacted region, and access to well-connected transport routes enabled us to be agile and move faster to reach those in need.” Etleva Kadilli, Director of UNICEF’s global supply and logistics operations.
UNICEF’s initial focus was for people to access safe drinking water and sanitation services. Pre-positioned supplies were immediately mobilized in-country and from UNICEF’s Global Supply Hubs. In Dubai, warehouse staff worked around the clock to ensure supplies were packed as quickly as possible and loaded onto trucks bound for the airport. Within just 18 days of the earthquakes, UNICEF managed to deliver 258 metric tons of vital supplies from Dubai to both Syria and Türkiye.
Speed is of the essence when a disaster hits.
Similarly, WHO’s Dubai Logistics Hub activated the emergency response on 6 February by mobilizing Trauma and Emergency Surgery supplies as well as essential medicines and equipment for immediate dispatch. WHO has other hubs around the world, but its facility in Dubai, with more than 20 warehouses, is its largest by far.
"The UAE's role in our efforts is crucial... The UAE plays a vital role in WHO's work around the world, with flights, medical supplies, and surgical trauma kits for emergency preparedness, response, and resilience," stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO.
The UAE has been a key supporter of WHO’s efforts in providing aid, relief material and medical supplies in the wake of the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. Within the very first month of the crisis, over 7 charter flights carrying 230 metric tons of health supplies, and 1.9 million USD worth of health supplies reached more than 1.5 million people, facilitated by WHO in collaboration with the IHC from Dubai.
Leave No One Behind.
Among those affected inside Syria are families that were already displaced from their homes by the country’s long-running crisis, living in tents, flimsy shelters and partially destroyed buildings. To this day, millions of survivors are enduring terrible trauma and need emergency assistance, including psychosocial support.
Mazen, a father of four who was previously displaced from his home in the Salahadin neighborhood of Aleppo for several years during Syria’s long-running crisis, said he thought he and his family were going to die when the earthquake struck in the early hours of Monday.
Through its field presence, UNHCR was able to timely respond with life-saving assistance to people affected by the earthquake. From its Global Stockpile in Dubai, and with the generous support of the UAE government, UNHCR shipped three airlifts with core relief items to both countries. The airlifts carried more than 130 tons of critical aid including high-thermal blankets, mattresses, kitchen sets, plastic sheeting, jerry cans and sleeping mats for nearly 24,300 beneficiaries.
When the earthquake struck, dozens of families, like Mazen, were left with nothing but the clothes they were wearing, having left everything behind as they fled their homes. They were eventually able to endure the harsh cold winter season with UNHCR’s timely relief items.
“We can only think about this minute now,” Mazen added. “Tomorrow, we don’t know what is going to happen, but for now, Alhamdulillah [praise God], we are safe.”
Mobilizing Expertise
WFP’s UN Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD) based in the UAE, also played a crucial role in dispatching 35 shipments carrying essential food, relief items, and support equipment with IHC’s in-kind contributions such as air transport to facilitate WFP’s operations. Additionally, WFP deployed staff to establish the Emergency Telecommunications Sector (ETS) in Türkiye, reinforcing WFP's capacity to support the government-led response. Charging stations were set up in temporary settlements, allowing the affected population to power their mobile devices and stay connected.
Community Support
In addition to the emergency response, UN agencies launched global appeals and donation campaigns, bringing their expertise to facilitate contributions to the most vulnerable and for the most urgent of needs. The UAE also mobilized the community through the "Bridges of Goodness" campaign, a nationwide community volunteering initiative, to bring the UAE together for quake-affected families. Thousands of volunteers helped assemble relief kits for UAE humanitarian organizations including Dubai Cares, Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) Authority among others.
Coordination and Collaboration
The UAE has been one of the countries at the forefront of the international aid response, providing immense support both financial and humanitarian. Drawing on the expertise and resources of various UN entities, this collaborative effort exemplifies the power of international cooperation and highlights the unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid.
“It is noteworthy to recognize the crucial role of the United Nations in the UAE, which enables the rapid mobilization of international relief efforts, thanks to the country's support.” Dena Assaf, UN Resident Coordinator for the UAE
Effective coordination and collaboration between UN entities in the UAE is vital to ensure a comprehensive and efficient response during times of crisis. The Resident Coordinator system plays a crucial role in facilitating this, promoting seamless cooperation, resource sharing, and strategic planning, ultimately maximizing the impact of humanitarian efforts across the world.
No matter who, no matter where and no matter what…
In times of crisis, the United Nations plays a crucial role in coordinating humanitarian relief efforts that save lives, alleviate suffering, and pave the way for recovery. While the earthquake has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with many homes destroyed, and lives lost, it serves as a reminder that humanity always prevails.
1 of 5

Story
24 May 2023
Message from the UN Resident Coordinator for the UAE on the Launch of the 2022 Annual Report
While leveraging a broad scope of mandates from the United Nations entities working in and with the UAE, the year 2022 presented new opportunities for the UN Country Team to strengthen its long-standing partnership and engagements in the country. This report highlights the achievements and contributions of the United Nations in its joint work with the UAE through its high-level policy advice, technical advisory support, regional and national programmes, and humanitarian outreach. The UN Country Team in the UAE has ensured the UAE's full engagement across the UN system mandates, strategically positioning them globally.
The UN Country Team provides technical advisory engagement to support the UAE's national priorities and vision, allowing the UAE to share its expertise and know-how regionally. This report showcases many such initiatives that have an impact in the UAE and beyond.
In 2022, there was a significant resurgence of diplomatic engagements in the UAE, capitalizing on Expo2020 and the global reopening following the COVID-19 pandemic. The UAE received over 100 high-level United Nations official missions, participating in various UN, UAE, and international engagements. This intensity of engagement cements the UAE's role in international diplomacy and multilateral dialogue on key issues facing the international community.
Expo2020 provided the UN Country Team with the opportunity to disseminate and advocate for global issues, including the SDGs. Global Goals week was held at Expo2020 for the first time outside of UN Headquarters in New York, significantly increasing our visibility and impact even beyond the UAE. The SDG through the Arts advocacy campaign, piloted in the UAE, is now being replicated worldwide.
The UAE's diversity of population provides a unique platform for advocacy and outreach that extends beyond its borders. Messages shared in the UAE are shared in countries around the world.
Policy dialogues with counterparts and stakeholders on addressing the looming climate crisis and investing in preparedness and anticipatory action systems have expanded. The UAE's logistical infrastructure capabilities are instrumental in shortening the current first response cycle.
The need for humanitarian assistance has increased by 40% in 63 countries around the world over the past year alone, with climate change compounding these challenges. The UAE hosts the United Nations' largest humanitarian response operation, servicing increasingly complex humanitarian needs across the planet.
In 2021, the UAE was designated as the host of COP28, providing an opportunity for engagements and coordination on climate action. Strengthening global action to combat climate change on the road to COP28, which will be held in the UAE in late 2023, is crucial. It is expected to be the largest United Nations gathering to date, dedicated to accelerating global cooperation in climate action.
As UN Resident Coordinator in the UAE, I take pride in the achievements of the UN Country Team and their dedication to strengthening partnerships in the UAE. I express gratitude to the UN Country Team for their cooperation and collaboration, as well as my team in the UN Resident Coordinator's Office for their support in positioning the United Nations effectively in the UAE and beyond.
Dr. Dena Assaf United Nations Resident Coordinator for the UAE
The Annual Results Report for 2022, can be found here.
1 of 5

Story
10 April 2023
Empowering Women: Game-Changers in Science and Technology
Women like Nora AlMatrooshi and Heyam Al Alblooshi are shattering stereotypes and being recognized for their true potentials as game-changers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) sectors in the UAE. Nora AlMatrooshi made history at just 28 years old as the first-ever female Emirati and Arab astronaut, selected from more than 4,000 applicants in the UAE. Heyam Al Alblooshi, a passionate engineer, is pursuing her dream as a Design Engineer with the UAE Space Agency, where she was actively involved in the Emirate’s Mars Mission.
The UAE's commitment to gender equality in STEM is evident in the leadership of H.E. Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology and Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency. She led the team that sent the UAE's Hope Probe spacecraft to Mars, which was launched on July 19, 2020, and arrived to Mars on February 9, 2021. The team included a significant number of women, with female engineers and scientists comprising 34% of the Emirates Mars Mission team and women representing 80% of the Hope Probe's operations team.
“The Arab world has its share of pioneering women scientists, and their work has played a key role in addressing issues that impact global society. We can see examples of driving forward with diversity in the UAE, providing women with access to funding, career progression and equal-pay.” H.E. Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology and Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency
As a global priority, gender equality in science and technology is crucial for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite significant efforts to engage women and girls in STEM over the past decades, they continue to be excluded from fully participating in these fields. For instance, women are typically given smaller research grants than their male colleagues, and only 12% of members of national science academies are women, even though they represent 33.3% of all researchers.
To address this gender gap, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) has been actively promoting awareness, capacity-building, and skills of women and girls globally in STEM and space technology. Efforts such as a global survey of the women workforce in the space sector and related assessment studies have been initiated, thus strengthening evidence-based awareness-raising. UNOOSA has connected over 200 women through its “Space4Women Mentorship Program” to inspire and guide more women and girls into STEM and space. A “life-changing experience”, as highlighted by one mentee, the program shows that role models and mentors can substantially support other women to achieve their ambitions in the STEM and space industries.
Global fora such as the “Space4Women Expert Meeting” confirm the role of the United Nations in promoting awareness of gender equality and empowerment, as well as providing the baselines to initiate policy action and changes. UNOOSA’s efforts, in such a context, contribute to making the global space sector more comparable and accessible to women and girls.
In addition to such efforts, the “L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents Programme”, aims to promote the participation of young women in science, with a focus on the GCC region and Yemen. The driving ethos behind the yearly program is that ‘the world needs science and science needs women’. The program was created to break barriers for women in STEM to progress and provide them with the tools to succeed. In its ninth year, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents Programme, in partnership with Khalifa University of Science and Technology, has honored five visionary women from the GCC to recognize their ground-breaking research in the fields of their expertise, including three researchers from the United Arab Emirates:
PhD student Hessa Ebrahim Ali Alfalahi for her research on early detection and diagnosis of depression and Parkinson’s disease using data collected through novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms
Dr. Raefa Abou Khouzam for her research on investigating new treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer to lead to its elimination.
Ayesha Abdulla Alkhoori for her research on converting Carbon Dioxide (CO2) into clean fuel to alleviate global warming and provide a solution for the energy depletion crisis.
Call for applications for 2023 are now open until April 28. For more information, visit the website.
“Through the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Program, we aim to improve the representation of women in STEM, to drive global impact by empowering more female scientists to achieve excellence at different stages of their careers and to encourage their participation in solving the great challenges of our time for the benefit of all.” Alexandra Palt, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer and CEO of the Foundation L’Oréal.
The world is undergoing a fundamental transformation that is changing the way we live, work, and think. This has far-reaching implications on society, and particularly in STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). While women remain a minority in digital information technology, computing, physics, mathematics, and engineering, they are certainly the driving force behind the UAE’s initiatives to stay on the cutting edge of science and technology. The UAE has embraced gender diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of life, including the digital revolution, ensuring that women have equal access to high-quality government services that are digitally optimized.
The Regional Office for the Middle East of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently launched in the month of March 2023, the “Women in Tech Startup Competition: Middle East”, which targets innovative startups led, owned, or managed by women residing in the region. Applicants can participate in one of the following categories: social impact, tourism and travel experience, future tech and events and community. The initiative gives female entrepreneurs the chance to compete for enhanced capacity building and visibility, as well as strengthens UNWTO’s efforts to make tourism a pillar of women’s empowerment. The application period is open until end of June 2023. For more information, please visit the website.
As stated by UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili: “Tourism startups have the power and agility to transform the sector in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. Tourism startups are also leading the way in advancing women empowerment, in the Middle East and globally, and UNWTO is delighted to support the region’s best innovators and digital entrepreneurs.”
The United Nations contributes to creating a conducive environment to the active and equal role of women and girls in space science, technology, innovation, and exploration, thus increasing and improving the participation of women in the space workforce. Through their unique role as a capacity-builder, UN agencies such as UNOOSA, UNESCO, UNWTO and many others, are enabling the space and STEM sectors to be more inclusive and diversified for women and young girls alike.
“We can all do our part to unleash our world’s enormous untapped talent – starting with filling classrooms, laboratories, and boardrooms with women scientists.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres
The world is evolving and women in STEM are there to make it happen, from the UAE to the world.
1 of 5

Story
24 March 2023
West Asian chefs take on fight against food waste
As the world is trying to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 – on halving global food waste per capita at the retail and consumer levels by 2030 – Chef Leyla’s appointment as UNEP's new advocate on food waste in the West Asia region, aims to call attention to the need to the fight against the problem of food waste in a region which relies on food imports and where evidence shows wastage of large quantities of food.
Dubai-based chef and television presenter Leyla Fathallah recently came across a bowl of grapes that were starting to turn. But instead of throwing them away, she rolled them into a brioche and posted a picture of it on Instagram, where she has 1.3 million followers.
“I got so many comments of people saying ‘Please keep giving us ideas for how to use left-over food,’” said Fathallah.
As the founder of the recently launched Fitkult, which makes ready-made meals, food waste has become a daily preoccupation for Fathallah. Her company prepares three dishes a day for her growing list of clientele. She has learned to calculate the exact amount of ingredients needed for each meal so that her chefs never cook more than is necessary.
Fathallah is part of a growing number of chefs who are trying to counter what they call an epidemic of food waste in West Asia, where an estimated one-third of all food is squandered. The wastage is taking a needless economic and environmental toll on a region already contending with poverty and climate change, say those in the industry.
Food waste isn’t only a problem in West Asia. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) 2021 Food Waste Index, almost 1 billion tonnes of food waste was generated in 2019 alone. More than 60 per cent of that came from households, 26 per cent from the food service sector and 13 per cent from retail. In all, the report found 17 per cent of food, from farm to table, goes to waste.
These figures are particularly hard to swallow given that an estimated 3.1 billion people worldwide do not have access to a healthy diet and some 828 million people go hungry. That, the Food Waste Index found, undermines progress on the UN Sustainable Development Goalsrelating to poverty, hunger, inequality and responsible consumption and production.
When food is wasted, all of the resources that went into producing it, such as water, energy for transportation and land are also squandered. Additionally, much of the food that is thrown away ends up in landfills where it decomposes and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to the climate crisis.
An estimated 34 per cent of all food in West Asia is squandered, according to a 2021 report from UNEP on food waste in the region. This is taking place in a part of the world that can scarcely afford it, said Sami Dimassi, UNEP regional director for West Asia.
“The region is heavily reliant on food imports and is also among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to scarce natural resources, such as water, and limited adaptation capacities,” says Dimassi.
There are many contributors to food waste globally. These include poor planning on how much food is needed when shopping, improper storage and freezing and cooking or serving too much food.
There are also cultural influences that might contribute to West Asia’s high food waste, say those in the industry. Issa Albalushi is a chef at Al Mouj Golf Restaurant in Muscat and the president of the Oman Chefs Guild. He often sees food go to waste at social events, like weddings.
Albalushi said food waste was once common at his restaurant, which serves 200 people on an average day and up to 1,000 for special events.
However, he has recently instituted a new system to track the exact weight of the ingredients in each dish. His staff also separate leftover food into two categories: food that has not been served to customers is donated to disadvantaged communities, and food that has been served is divided into meat and vegetables to be fed to livestock and pets. This reduces the amount of food that ends up in landfills producing methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Reducing food waste is a critical part of countering climate change. Squandered food accounts for 8-10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to an unstable climate and extreme weather events, such as droughts and flooding.
To raise awareness about the consequences of food waste, in 2019 UNEP and The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN launched the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste.
UNEP also launched the Recipe of Change Campaign, which encourages consumers in West Asia to be conscious of food waste. The initiative is designed to accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 12, which covers sustainable consumption and production.
As well, a UNEP initiative, Global Opportunities for Sustainable Development Goals, helped 25 countries in Asia Pacific, West Asia, Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean develop national strategies to reduce food loss and waste.
For many, combating food waste might seem like an overwhelming task that is best left to governments and institutions. However, for Leyla Fathallah, the process starts in kitchens. “It just takes a bit more work, creativity, and experimentation. Teach your kids these skills so they can learn the habit of not wasting food.”
Original story published by UNEP West Asia, available on their website.
1 of 5

Story
25 January 2023
Reflections of Resilience: A Photographic Journey of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Under the theme of “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls”, the United Nations Women Liaison Office for the GCC (UN Women) and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) joined efforts for the 2022 campaign to produce a photo exhibition in the UAE, during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence; which is a campaign that has been active since 1991. Starting on the 25th of November of each year, coinciding with the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women, the campaign continues for 16 days and ends on the International Human Rights Day on the 10th of December each year.
While the fight for ending all forms of gender-based violence is an all year mission, the 16-days campaign is a reaffirmation for the world to scale its efforts, as it calls on governments, civil society, women's organizations, youth, the private sector, the media and the entire UN system to come together to address and put an end to the global scourge of violence against women and girls.
“The concept of violence against women is not limited to physical or physical abuse, rather its concept extends to include all manifestations of discrimination against women and deprivation of their human rights.”
“One in three women will experience violence at least once in their lifetime. And in times of crisis, these percentages increase, as shown by the COVID-19 pandemic and other humanitarian crises, conflicts and disasters caused by climate change.”
Gender-based violence disproportionately affects women and girls, and in situations of displacement, their risk of exposure to gender-based violence increases. With UN Women's mandate and UNHCR’s primary purpose to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and people who were forced to flee, both organizations strive to ensure that women and girls, and particularly those in vulnerable contexts, are protected against gender-based violence. The UN Women-UNCHR joint exhibition in Abu Dhabi, featured photographs that captured women from around the world, who were subject to different forms of violence. Through the photography lens of professional photographers, powerful stories of resilience are unraveled aiming to change the narrative by speaking up against it.
“The costs of violence against women are very high. They include the direct costs of services for the treatment and support of women victims of abuse and their children, and for the prosecution of perpetrators of such abuse and indirect costs such as loss of work and productivity as well as psychological pain and suffering.”
Along with the photographs, the exhibition included quotes that introduced the audience to the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence” campaign and its mission and objectives. The quotes also highlighted the different forms of violence that women and girls face, as it also emphasized on the harmful repercussions of violence on the lives of women and girls. It also provided solutions on ways to combat all forms of violence against women and girls.
The joint exhibition was featured during a two-day high level event, under the title: “The Arab Declaration for the Elimination of All Forms of Violence against Women and Girls”. Organized by the UAE National Human Right Committee in cooperation with the UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC, the League of Arab States and the General Women's Union, the conference focused on exchanging best practices in combating violence against women and girls regionally.
Millions of women around the world continue to suffer from violence in various forms. UN Women elaborates on how the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence awareness activities and interventions can change attitudes and influence people's behavior to prevent and eliminate violence against women at the local, national and international levels. Activities range from government campaigns to inform women about existing laws to prevent and punish violence, to holding meetings at the community and village levels on the negative effects of violence against women, to projects involving men and boys in combating violence against women.
Orange the World: Do you know why orange is the official color for this campaign?
Globally, the orange color was chosen for the campaign, because it symbolizes a bright future free from all forms of violence based on gender around the world. Several monuments and important buildings around the world lit up in orange each year to send a message that violence against women is unacceptable and must end now.
Since 2018, UN Women in the UAE has led the coordination with government partners and other institutions such as the General Women's Union and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and various partners, to ensure that many iconic buildings across the UAE, such as Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame, are lit up in orange in solidarity with the campaign. UN Women also launches an annual social media campaign inviting partners from all sectors to pledge their support and participate by taking concrete action to end violence against women and girls globally.
Join the movement and learn more on how you can raise awareness.
1 of 5

Press Release
06 July 2023
Launch of the World Investment Report 2023
About UNCTAD
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) promotes inclusive and sustainable development through trade, investment, finance, and technology.
UNCTAD's World Investment Report is a leading publication that provides analysis and insights into global investment trends and policies.
World Investment Forum
The key findings of the World Investment Report 2023 will inform discussions at UNCTAD’s 8th World Investment Forum to be held in Abu Dhabi from 16 to 20 October 2023 under the theme "Investing in sustainable development".
The forum will bring together government leaders, global CEOs, policymakers and other stakeholders to find solutions and reach consensus on priority issues. Its outcomes will feed into negotiations at the annual climate summit COP28, which will also be held in the United Arab Emirates.
1 of 5
Press Release
29 March 2023
UNWTO Launch Women in Tech Startup Competition: Middle East
Announced at Biban 2023, Saudi Arabia’s largest SME conference, the Women in Tech Startup Competition: Middle East, will further advance UNWTO’s work to make tourism a pillar of women’s empowerment. The initiative gives innovators the chance to compete for enhanced capacity building and visibility. Finalists in each category will join the UNWTO Innovation Network, giving them access to the UNWTO Member States network, mentorship programs and to UNWTO scholarship opportunities.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, says: “Tourism startups have the power and agility to transform the sector in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. Tourism startups are also leading the way in advancing women empowerment, in the Middle East and globally, and UNWTO is delighted to support the region’s best innovators and digital entrepreneurs.”
Who can apply?
• Startups must be led, owned or managed by women residing in any of the following countries: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Libya and Yemen.
• Idea Stage, Early Stage or Series A startups with a minimum viable product or idea that is ready to be developed and funded.
• Have a full-time team, a tested pilot and business plan.
• Be scalable with potential for international growth.
Startups must also belong to at least one of the following categories:
• Social Impact: For startups that focus on technology in wellness, health, urban development, rural development, sustainability, and education with cross-cutting benefits with tourism.
• Tourism and Travel Experience: Startups focusing on the food and beverage, transportation and accommodation, travel, and retail industries to participate.
• Future Tech: Startups that leverage fintech, AI, AR/VR, cryptocurrency, Internet of Things, blockchain technology, digital twinning and the Metaverse.
• Events and Community: Startups focused on social and messaging platforms, e-sports and gaming platforms, community-based applications, events-related platforms, and education technology.
Applications close at the end of July 2023 and the winners will be announced at the Tourism Tech Adventure (TTA), to be held on World Tourism Day (27 September Riyadh, Saudi Arabia).
Startups can apply at:https://www.unwto.org/startup-competition/unwto-women-in-tech-middle-east
UNWTO and Innovation
Since 2018, UNWTO’s IEI department has launched more than 21 startup competitions and innovation challenges, covering over 150 countries around the world. With over 10,000 participants and more than US$214 million in funding, UNWTO continues its efforts to support digitalization and innovation in line with the global entrepreneurship ecosystem. Tourism has the opportunity to improve inclusiveness, local community development, and resource efficiency by leveraging innovation and digital advancements.
For more information, please contact:
Rosalia Galan - Communications Expert IEI - UNWTO Regional Office Middle East rgalan@unwto.org | +966 555908142 Lara Kabbara - Communications
IEI - UNWTO Regional Office Middle East lkabbara@unwto.org | +966 508887969
Related links:
https://www.unwto.org/innovation-investment-and-digital-transformation https://www.unwto.org/unwto-startup-competition
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, says: “Tourism startups have the power and agility to transform the sector in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. Tourism startups are also leading the way in advancing women empowerment, in the Middle East and globally, and UNWTO is delighted to support the region’s best innovators and digital entrepreneurs.”
Who can apply?
• Startups must be led, owned or managed by women residing in any of the following countries: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Libya and Yemen.
• Idea Stage, Early Stage or Series A startups with a minimum viable product or idea that is ready to be developed and funded.
• Have a full-time team, a tested pilot and business plan.
• Be scalable with potential for international growth.
Startups must also belong to at least one of the following categories:
• Social Impact: For startups that focus on technology in wellness, health, urban development, rural development, sustainability, and education with cross-cutting benefits with tourism.
• Tourism and Travel Experience: Startups focusing on the food and beverage, transportation and accommodation, travel, and retail industries to participate.
• Future Tech: Startups that leverage fintech, AI, AR/VR, cryptocurrency, Internet of Things, blockchain technology, digital twinning and the Metaverse.
• Events and Community: Startups focused on social and messaging platforms, e-sports and gaming platforms, community-based applications, events-related platforms, and education technology.
Applications close at the end of July 2023 and the winners will be announced at the Tourism Tech Adventure (TTA), to be held on World Tourism Day (27 September Riyadh, Saudi Arabia).
Startups can apply at:https://www.unwto.org/startup-competition/unwto-women-in-tech-middle-east
UNWTO and Innovation
Since 2018, UNWTO’s IEI department has launched more than 21 startup competitions and innovation challenges, covering over 150 countries around the world. With over 10,000 participants and more than US$214 million in funding, UNWTO continues its efforts to support digitalization and innovation in line with the global entrepreneurship ecosystem. Tourism has the opportunity to improve inclusiveness, local community development, and resource efficiency by leveraging innovation and digital advancements.
For more information, please contact:
Rosalia Galan - Communications Expert IEI - UNWTO Regional Office Middle East rgalan@unwto.org | +966 555908142 Lara Kabbara - Communications
IEI - UNWTO Regional Office Middle East lkabbara@unwto.org | +966 508887969
Related links:
https://www.unwto.org/innovation-investment-and-digital-transformation https://www.unwto.org/unwto-startup-competition
1 of 5
Press Release
11 April 2023
Dubai International Humanitarian City and World Health Organization Join Forces to Aid Earthquake-stricken Turkiye and Syria
08 February 2023, Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The recent earthquakes that devastated Turkiye and Syria has sparked a swift response from the International Humanitarian City (IHC) in Dubai. Guided by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the IHC, the world's largest humanitarian hub, is mobilized to respond efficiently and effectively.
"The IHC stands firmly committed to providing the people affected by the earthquakes with the humanitarian support and resources they need. We are taking urgent action by facilitating airlifts of vital medical supplies from the World Health Organization (WHO) to address the pressing demand for medical aid in the affected regions," said His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for the Supervision of IHC.
A first cargo plane bound for the Turkiye through Istanbul departed from Al Maktoum International Airport tonight, transporting 37 tons of medical kits.
Additionally, IHC is facilitating another relief flight to Syria to support international humanitarian agencies in delivering additional tons of crucial aid, which includes medicines, and other essential supplies. The IHC is funding the logistics operation through its Global Humanitarian Impact Fund (GHIF), which mobilizes resources from the private and public sectors to respond to humanitarian crises.
The IHC's members and team of dedicated professionals are working tirelessly to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most as quickly and efficiently as possible. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s ongoing commitment to providing humanitarian aid and supporting communities affected by disasters around the world.
-End-
1 of 5
Press Release
20 December 2022
"Restoration of Coastal and Marine Ecosystems Abu Dhabi" named as one of the first 10 UN World Restoration Flagships
The winning initiatives were unveiled at the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in Montreal and a special virtual gala event featuring actors Jason Momoa and Edward Norton, Dr. Jane Goodall, extreme mountaineer Nirmal Purja, singer Ellie Goulding, UK band Bastille, Chinese celebrity Li Bingbing, UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen, FAO Deputy Director-General Maria Helena Semedo and British economist Sir Partha Dasgupta, among others. The gala was hosted by Indian National Geographic Explorer and wildlife filmmaker Malaika Vaz.
The initiatives were declared World Restoration Flagships and are eligible to receive UN-backed promotion, advice, or funding. They were selected under the banner of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Together, the 10 flagships aim to restore more than 68 million hectares − an area bigger than Myanmar, France or Somalia − and create nearly 15 million jobs.
In revealing the World Restoration Flagships, the UN Decade seeks to honor the best examples of large-scale and long-term ecosystem restoration, embodying the 10 Restoration Principles of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These flagships represent the most ambitious, promising, and inspirational examples of making peace with nature across 23 countries and all ecosystems. World Restoration Flagships involve hundreds of individual projects, they also serve to highlight action across ecosystems.
UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen: “Transforming our relationship with nature is the key to reversing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. These 10 inaugural World Restoration Flagships show that with political will, science, and collaboration across borders, we can achieve the goals of the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration and forge a more sustainable future not only for the planet but also for those of us who call it home.”
Qu Dongyu, Director General of the FAO, said: “FAO, together with UNEP, as co-lead of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, is pleased to award the 10 most ambitious, visionary, and promising ecosystem restoration initiatives as 2022 World Restoration Flagships. Inspired by these flagships, we can learn to restore our ecosystems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all, leaving no one behind.”
Among the 10 World Restoration Flagships, Abu Dhabi Marine Restoration was recognized. In fact, safeguarding the world’s second-largest dugong population is a goal of the drive in the United Arab Emirates to restore beds of seagrass – the vegetarian dugong’s preferred food – coral reefs and mangroves along the Gulf coast. The project in the emirate of Abu Dhabi will improve conditions for many other plants and animals, including four species of turtle and three kinds of dolphin. Local communities will benefit from the revival of some of the 500 species of fish, as well as greater opportunities for eco-tourism. Abu Dhabi wants to ensure its coastal ecosystems are resilient in the face of global warming and rapid coastal development in what is already one of the world’s warmest seas. Some 7,500 hectares of coastal areas have already been restored with another 4,500 hectares under restoration for 2030.
Warm congratulations to UAE on these tremendous efforts! It is with such initiatives that we can restore our ecosystems and secure a sustainable future for our planet.
1 of 5
Press Release
13 December 2022
United Nations observes 77 years of service to humanity with a commemoration event in the UAE
Dubai, UAE, 24 October 2022: The United Nations (UN) in the United Arab Emirates collaborated with the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra (EYSO) on the 24th of October, commemorating this year's UN Day in collaboration with Dubai Media City, a member of TECOM Group PJSC, after last year's outstanding ceremony held at Al Wasl Dome in Expo 2020.
To mark the UN's 77 years of service to humanity and highlight the organization's ongoing strategic collaboration with the UAE government for more than 50 years, the office of the UN Resident Coordinator for the United Arab Emirates hosted a series of outreach events across the UAE.
On the occasion of this year's UN Day, the UN in the UAE also launched a short video titled "One UN," which focuses on the UN's collective efforts in and with the UAE. The video featured multiple UN agencies, showcasing the UN’s diverse areas of collaboration towards a more sustainable future where no one is left behind. Additionally, the event highlighted captivating stories from UN staff members and hosted media outlets for interviews and coverage, followed by a musical performance by members of the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra. The Orchestra, based in Dubai Media City and home to some of the UAE’s leading young musicians, exemplified through music, the UN’s core objective of peace. As part of the celebrations, the UN emblem will be projected on the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the ADNOC building in Abu Dhabi today.
The Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra’s performance included a rendition of the Hymn to the United Nations, composed by Spain's Pablo Casals with lyrics provided by English poet W.H. Auden. The ensemble performed this piece last year at Expo’s main stage in Al Wasl Plaza, under the baton of Syrian-Czech maestro Riad Kudsi.
“The UAE has always been a supporter of the UN’s global, regional and local efforts toward sustainable development. The UN in UAE continues to work together to realize our shared vision of a better world for all. We are proud to be convening the UN system and commemorating UN Day with our partners Dubai Media City and the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra. The United Nations is built on the spirit of hope; and today as we mark the UN Day, we renew our hope and conviction in what humanity can achieve when we work as one, in global solidarity,” said Mageed Yahia, UN Resident Coordinator ad interim for the UAE, and WFP Director in the UAE and Representative to the GCC.
Commenting on the event, Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Media City, said: “We are pleased to be part of an event highlighting the Unites Nation’s ongoing strategic collaboration with the UAE government for more than 50 years. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do and an important part of our long-term plans. Such events are integral to bringing together this extensive community to exchange knowledge, expertise and insights and advance the field on a global scale.”
The UN in UAE looks forward to a long-term strategic cooperation with Dubai Media City, a world-renowned media hub and a member of the TECOM Group PJSC in areas of mutual priority towards sustainable development and climate action.
1 of 5
Latest Resources
1 / 6
Resources
22 March 2022
Resources
15 June 2021
1 / 6