United Nations 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:

Learn more

Story

12 December 2023

Net Zero Heroes: UNICEF Celebrates young Climate superheroes at COP28

They do not wear capes, but they are real superheroes: The young Net Zero Heroes, aged between 9 to 15 years old, are inspiring role models for not only their peers but all of us, by taking action to protect the climate and save the planet. 35 children from the UAE were selected in the Net Zero Hero initiative by the Ministry of Education of the United Arab Emirates (UAE MoE) in collaboration with UNICEF Gulf Area (GAO) as part of the Greening Education Partnership.“One day, images of forests ablaze in a distant land brought tears to my eyes. Our earth suffers, as a consequence of climate change and humanity's failure to protect it”Issa Al Mazmi, Net Zero Hero The Net Zero Heroes programme empowers children to actively participate in climate discourse, to contribute to protecting the environment and to advocate for more climate action. As climate change is one of the greatest threats to the young generation, they must be equipped with all the education and skills they need to face this challenge. Over the last months, the young climate heroes have passed an impressive journey. In the run-up to COP28, they participated in specialized training on climate issues and debated and connected with each other by sharing perspectives and working together on solutions. Net Zero Heroes in action on COP28 On COP28, the Net Zero Heroes made significant contributions to climate action, by participating in various events as well as media interviews and raising their voices on children’s perspective on climate issues. In a COP simulation workshop, the children worked on the different topics of climate negotiations such as Loss & Damage, the need for supporting vulnerable communities affected by climate change, adaptation and mitigation. Divided into smaller groups, the young people discussed on these topics from the perspective of the different continents Africa, South America, Asia and Europe, and developed impressive calls to action that each group presented in a negotiation simulation afterwards. In a celebration ceremony at the Greening Education Hub’s theatre, UNICEF GAO and the UAE Ministry of Education acknowledged the outstanding commitment of the young climate champions on the COP and beyond to save the planet and take care of their environment and communities. The participants were honored with a personal certificate, which was presented to them on stage to thunderous applause from the audience. “I am inspired by the knowledge of the Net Zero Heroes. These children are really the future generation, these are the agents of change.”Eltayeb Adam, UNICEF Gulf Representative

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

Press Release

19 October 2023

MoCCAE promotes innovation in food systems, agriculture in cooperation with World Food Programme, Food Tech Valley

The MoU was signed during the UAE year of sustainability and as part of the Ministry’s preparations for the Conference of the Parties COP28 hosted in Dubai later this year. The agreement highlights the commitment of the Ministry to strengthen UAE food systems and agriculture, and to keep pace with the latest developments and technologies across the food value chain to achieve the objectives of the UAE National Food Security Strategy. The agreement was signed at the Ministry’s headquarters in Dubai by Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; Hesham Al Qassim, Vice Chairman Chief Executive Officer at Wasl , the company responsible for managing and developing Food Tech Valley; Abdel Mageed Yahia, the Director of the United Nations World Food Programme Office in the United Arab Emirates and WFP’s Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries; along with officials from the signatory parties. Al Nuaimi stressed the keenness of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to cooperate with the other parties to implement the objectives of the National Food Security Strategy to develop sustainable local production and promote smart technologies in food production. He added, "Our collaboration with WFP and their Innovation Accelerator and the Food Tech Valley aims to exchange expertise and experiences that support the application of advanced solutions to manage the entire food system in the country. This is in order to achieve various nutritional, environmental and climate goals. Modern food systems represent a major pillar in our endeavours to enhance national food security. We aim to share our experience with the world, during COP28. The UAE encourages countries to sign the ‘Emirates Declaration on Resilient Food Systems, Sustainable Agriculture, and Climate Action’ to eliminate world hunger.” He concluded, "We are pleased with the continued cooperation with the World Food Programme and Food Tech Valley, and we look forward to strengthening this partnership to serve all our mutual goals." Hesham Al Qassim said, “Food security is one of the UAE’s strategic goals for the future of the country. Innovation and technology will help pave the way to achieve these goals, and solve some of the world’s greatest challenges, while food security can pave the path to peace, progress, and stability. We strive to deliver this positive impact at scale alongside the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the United Nations World Food Program, the world’s largest humanitarian organization. Our mission to create resilient food systems has been strengthened by this powerful and strategic partnership, and we look forward to future collaboration to address food security locally, regionally, and globally”. Abdel Mageed Yahia said, “WFP is delighted to partner with both the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and Food Tech Valley to create real and lasting impact on global food systems through the transformative power of innovation. WFP brings a rich history of using innovation in fragile contexts spanning over six decades, from pioneering humanitarian airlifts to scaling up cutting-edge technologies that improve program delivery and empowering local innovators to create local solutions throughout our operations. With WFP’s global outreach and the specialised expertise of our Innovation Accelerator under the leadership of Bernhard Kowatsch, WFP’s specialised team that fosters and scales innovative solutions to real humanitarian and development problems, combined with the vision of the Ministry and the expertise of the Food Tech Valley, we can catalyse a revolutionary transformation in food systems, for more resilient and sustainable livelihoods. As per the MoU, the three parties will explore ways of cooperation to exchange information on key innovative initiatives and related opportunities that advance the shared priorities of MOCCAE, Food Tech Valley, and the WFP’s Innovation Accelerator. The three parties also agreed to share innovations that power the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. For WFP, the agreement will explore opportunities to benefit from innovative practices, tools and technologies supported by Food Tech Valley, and strengthening strategic cooperation. Bernhard Kowatsch, Head of WFP Innovation Accelerator, said, “This collaboration between the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Food Tech Valley, and WFP will allow us to even further level-up ground-breaking solutions in the climate and food security space. WFP’s Innovation Accelerator will be a ready contributor to this work. I’m excited about how we can take WFP’s existing innovation work, supporting over 150 innovations and reaching 37 million people worldwide, combined with the Food Tech Valley and the Ministry to maximise the enablement and nurturing of water-smart and food systems innovations around the world.” The agreement aims to mobilise funds and resources for the implementation of activities. It also seeks to undertake studies, provide training, conduct boot camps, research, seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, and symposia for the exchange experiences and other information that impact UAE, regional and global food security concerns. The memorandum also focuses on cooperation to pioneer innovative solutions that address food security challenges and to collaborate in the undertaking of effective projects to address these challenges. Additionally, it aims to contribute to the UAE 2050 agenda and COP28 commitments to global sustainability. This press release is originally shared by the Emirates News Agency.

1 of 5

Press Release

12 February 2024

The UAE’s AI Office signs an agreement with UNDP to enhance the adoption of artificial intelligence

Dubai: During the World Government Summit 2024, the Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications in the UAE government signed an agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance research and development in artificial intelligence technologies and empower talents in the Arab region and beyond.The agreement was signed by Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary General and UNDP Regional Director for Arab States, and Saqr bin Ghalib, Executive Director of the Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications Office in the UAE government.Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari said: “United in purpose, we pledge to explore ethically and responsibly the possibilities of artificial intelligence. Our collaboration with the Government of the United Arab Emirates is focused on fostering innovation and advancing the attainment of the SDGs. By emphasizing the role of research and development in AI, we are integrating advanced AI and digital ecosystems through various sectors to promote impactful progress and serve people in the Arab region and beyond.”Saqr bin Ghalib affirmed that the government of the United Arab Emirates, with its future vision and proactive forward-thinking approach, is expanding the scope of various partnerships to explore the prospects of technological opportunities and increase the adoption of these technologies to serve communities, which is a top priority to enhance well-being and ensure sustainable development in line with the directives of the leadership to expand the fields of artificial intelligence adoption for the benefit of humanity.Saqr bin Ghalib futher added that the World Government Summit serves as an ideal platform for solidifying these purposeful partnerships in line with its objectives to enhance the society’s well-being, support future efforts, and devise innovative solutions to various challenges.The agreement aims to enhance partnerships in areas of common interest to promote artificial intelligence and benefit from it to accelerate progress towards achieving sustainable development goals, exploring the necessary factors and requirements for developing and utilizing artificial intelligence and digital ecosystem and formulating ethical policies that promote the guiding principles within responsible artificial intelligence development and ensure the compatibility of these standards with societal values.Additionally, the agreement aims to support innovation and digital inclusion, with a focus on benefiting communities and leveraging artificial intelligence as a development priority, exchanging knowledge, supporting joint development of digital initiatives, enhancing decision-making processes based on artificial intelligence technologies and digital tools, including data-driven governance frameworks and advanced policy analytics, and using artificial intelligence for data analysis to ensure reliable information for developing various policies and establishing robust data management frameworks and ethical guidelines for artificial intelligence and enhancing trust and increasing adoption of these technologies by reducing associated data risks.In terms of skills development, the agreement seeks to exchange knowledge, refine experiences and capabilities, empower individuals, strengthen institutions and initiatives in the field of artificial intelligence, including training in data science and machine learning, exchanging views and practical theories, and best practices on current platforms and applications.UNDP with a global presence in nearly 170 countries serves in many respects as the operational arm of the United Nations at the country level and works with partners in numerous countries to promote sustainable development, eradication of poverty, advancement of women, good governance and the rule of law.The World Government Summit 2024 took place from February 12 to 14, featured over 120 sessions and 15 forums, hosted over 200 speakers and 120 government delegations gathered to anticipate the future of governments and design solutions to confront future challenges.

1 of 5

Press Release

13 February 2024

UN-Habitat to support AI projects, solutions in cooperation with Dubai Municipality

DUBAI, 13th February, 2024 (WAM) -- Dubai Municipality today signed a cooperation agreement with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) to support and enhance the "Artificial Intelligence in Dubai: Pioneering Urban Intelligence for a Comprehensive and Sustainable Future" project.The agreement was signed during the World Governments Summit 2024 in the presence of Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Chairman of World Government Summit (WGS); and Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary-General of the Dubai Executive Council.Dawoud Al Hajri, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, and Michal Mlynár, Assistant Secretary-General and Acting Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) signed the agreement, which seeks to accomplish the shared objectives in establishing an innovative environment for developing and employing artificial intelligence to promote sustainable urban planning.Al Hajri emphasised the significance of the agreement in fostering and expanding cooperation in technical domains associated with urban planning and innovative planning tools. This demonstrates Dubai Municipality’s efforts and strategic plans toward sustainable planning, targeted at improving the quality of life and positioning Dubai as a leader in the use and governance of artificial intelligence in urban planning.Al Hajri said, “We are pleased to sign this strategic cooperation agreement with the UN-Habitat, on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2024. This partnership will strengthen urban policies, programs, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to produce beneficial results, thereby creating an advanced environment for artificial intelligence applications. The objective is to accelerate the resolution of environmental, social, and economic challenges related to sustainable and inclusive urban planning in Dubai.”Michal Mlynár said, “We are excited to expand our partnership with Dubai Municipality and support the use of data and AI in advancing sustainable and inclusive urban planning. Digital technology has the potential to reshape the way we envision and build urban spaces. However, we should always put people first and ensure that we leave no one and no place behind.”The agreement will be followed by the development of a comprehensive proposal for the project ‘Artificial Intelligence in Dubai: Pioneering Urban Intelligence for a Comprehensive and Sustainable Future’. This project aims to improve collaboration across several areas of work, including the creation of an AI governance strategy for Dubai’s urban planning and the implementation of AI-driven simulation tools to improve priority areas and optimise urban planning operations and services.The agreement further aims to enhance the knowledge and expertise of Dubai Municipality workforce as well as their capabilities in implementing artificial intelligence techniques within urban planning.The partnership between Dubai Municipality and UN-Habitat has yielded remarkable results, most notably their constant efforts in organising the 13th edition of the Dubai International Best Practices Award for Sustainable Development. Conducted as part of the World Governments Summit, this award honors exceptional global concepts, initiatives, and cutting-edge methods towards improving environmental sustainability and quality of life globally, thereby positively influencing the growth of future cities.This collaboration is further strengthened by the international recognition of this award and its sustained momentum. The award has currently emerged as a key advocate for implementing best practices in global sustainable urban planning and is documented in the UN-Habitat’s database for best practices as part of the new urban agenda program.More than 4,000 participants from the public and private sectors will participate in 110 interactive sessions at WGS 2024, including 200 speakers from 80 international, regional and intergovernmental organisations including the UN, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Arab League. It will also welcome eight Nobel prize winners, and provide a platform for 23 ministerial meetings in the presence of more than 300 ministers.In partnership with a select group of knowledge partners, the Summit will launch more than 25 strategic reports, focusing on the most important practices and trends in vital sectors.

1 of 5

Story

20 February 2025

FAO Honors Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) honored Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, for her significant contributions in areas of women’s empowerment and sustainable development at both national and global levels. This recognition is part of the FAO's 80th anniversary celebrations and highlight the organizations’ long-standing efforts to promote food security, eliminate hunger, and advance sustainable development worldwide.The event included a special video presentation showcasing Sheikha Fatima’s pivotal role in shaping policies that advance the rights and empowerment of women, both in the UAE and globally. The video spotlighted Her Highness’ leadership in supporting several major programs aimed at improving women's access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. It also emphasized her commitment to sustainable development, particularly in areas such as poverty reduction, hunger alleviation and climate action.Dr. Kayan Akram Jaff Head of Mission of FAO Subregional Office for GCC states and Yemen, said: "The UAE's leadership continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to sustainable development, with a particular focus on addressing hunger and poverty. The legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan remains a source of inspiration. The Sheikh Zayed Center for Media and Knowledge at the FAO headquarters in Rome is a testament to the strong partnership between the UAE and FAO in advancing agriculture and food security."Her Excellency Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women's Union, accepted the award on behalf of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, during the event which was attended by officials, dignitaries and representatives of diplomatic missions in the UAE.Her Excellency Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women's Union, emphasized the significance of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima's role in national development: "Since its founding, the UAE has been committed to enhancing the prosperity of its citizens and contributing to global development initiatives. Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's leadership has been a driving force behind the empowerment of women. At the General Women's Union, we continue to follow her visionary approach, ensuring the active participation of women in all aspects of societal and economic development."The ceremony was held yesterday at the General Women's Union headquarters in Abu Dhabi, marking an important occasion in the global fight for food security and women's rights. The event was organized in collaboration with UN Women, underscoring the collaboration between the UAE and international organizations to advance these key issues. Dr. Mouza Al Shehhi, Director of the UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC, praised the UAE's support for women's empowerment: "It is a wonderful moment to come together to recognize Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her extraordinary contributions to global women's empowerment. Her leadership has shaped the UAE's policies and inspired international efforts to address environmental challenges. The UAE's partnership with UN Women highlights its commitment to supporting women as agents of change in the fight for sustainable development."For eight decades, FAO has harnessed global efforts to achieve sustainable development goals, particularly in food security, climate adaptation and gender equality. The celebration highlights women's central role in the global efforts to address these challenges. The partnership between the UAE and FAO remains a model of how global collaboration can drive positive change in achieving a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

1 of 5

Story

10 October 2024

Strategic Partnership Announced Between the Global Climate Finance Centre and the United Nations in the UAE

The Global Climate Finance Centre (GCFC) and the United Nations in the UAE (UN in UAE) have formalized a strategic partnership to scale up climate finance and support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This collaboration aligns with the recently adopted "Pact for the Future" at the 2024 Summit of the Future, a globally negotiated, action-oriented pact to protect the needs and interests of present and future generations.
Key areas of the partnership include leveraging the UN development system across the African continent, to create enabling ecosystems for clean energy and green industrialization projects. This initiative aims to de-risk investments and foster cooperation between public and private sectors to drive a just, inclusive transition to a low-carbon economy.Additionally, the partnership will focus on the 2026 UN Water Conference, with a specific emphasis on spotlighting the challenges and opportunities facing climate and water financing. The collaboration aims to address the intersection of finance, water security and climate resilience.Ms. Bérangère Boëll, UN Resident Coordinator for the UAE, commented, "This partnership embodies our commitment to the climate goals within the 'Pact for the Future' and underscores the power of collaboration to achieve the SDGs, particularly in ensuring no one is left behind."Ms. Mercedes Vela Monserrate, CEO of the GCFC, added, "By working with the UN, we are leveraging its global reach and vast institutional expertise to advance innovative financial frameworks and drive systemic change in EMDCs. We are particularly excited to collaborate on the 2026 UN Water Conference, which aligns with our shared commitment to sustainable development”.

About the Global Climate Finance Center
The Global Climate Finance Centre (GCFC) was launched during COP28 in Dubai as a legacy initiative to address the pressing need for accessible, affordable, and scalable climate finance. Based in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the Centre serves as an independent climate finance hub, leveraging its members and strategic partners to provide support and solutions to accelerate climate financing, particularly in emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs). The Centre is also host to several key initiatives like the Climate Finance Framework, the Africa Green Investment Initiative (AGII), and the Innovate for Climatetech (I4C) coalition.
gfcf.com About the United Nations in the UAE
The United Nations in the United Arab Emirates plays a key role in fostering partnerships, providing technical assistance, and supporting policy development to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, including urgent climate action, humanitarian efforts, and gender equality. uae.un.org

1 of 5

Story

18 June 2024

UN in UAE 2023 Annual Report: Partnering for a Sustainable Future

The year 2023 marked a significant milestone in the United Nations’ longstanding partnership with the United Arab Emirates, highlighted by the UAE’s hosting of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) and declaring 2023 the “Year of Sustainability.” During this period, the UN Country Team (UNCT) in the UAE collaborated closely with a diverse range of UAE partners, including government entities, the private sector, academia, youth, and the diplomatic corps, to advocate for global climate action and sustainability initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The United Nations’ normative role and its ability to convey powerful messages, combined with the cutting-edge expertise of its numerous entities and high-level policy advice, opened new avenues for innovative partnerships with the UAE. This strategic positioning enabled the UAE to showcase its expertise on a global scale.A dedicated UN COP28 Task Team was instrumental in cultivating diverse avenues for climate action, knowledge sharing, and multi-stakeholder partnerships within the UAE’s environmental community. These efforts reflected the UNCT’s commitment to amplifying youth leadership and bolstering synergies between climate change and biodiversity conservation.Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to humanitarian aid, the UAE played a pivotal role in supporting UN relief efforts throughout the year. Contributing over US$221 million towards UN-supported relief operations, the UAE significantly aided in mitigating distress and fostering resilience in crisis-affected communities worldwide. These substantial contributions underscore the UAE’s vital role as a facilitator of swift and efficient global aid delivery, enhancing the UN’s capacity for effective humanitarian responses.
The 2023 annual report encapsulates the multifaceted collaboration between the UAE and the United Nations—a partnership dedicated to realizing a sustainable, just, and prosperous future through concerted action and shared resolve, striving for a prosperous and peaceful world for all.The UNCT in the UAE remains dedicated to promoting innovative approaches in line with the UN 2.0 vision: a modern UN family invigorated by a forward-thinking culture and empowered with cutting-edge skills. This transformation enables more agile, responsive, and impactful partnerships between the UN Development System and the UAE.Looking ahead to 2024, the United Nations in the UAE is poised to capitalize on the momentum generated by the outcomes of COP28 and the UAE’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development. Priorities include deepening partnerships with the UAE government, civil society, and the private sector to foster tangible global progress on the SDGs and address pressing environmental challenges. Emphasizing collaboration on humanitarian action, innovative solutions will be explored, harnessing digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and other cutting-edge tools to augment impact and efficiency.A pivotal focus for 2024 lies in close collaboration with the UAE government to build momentum towards the landmark Summit of the Future. Drawing upon the UAE’s forward-thinking vision and global convening power, joint efforts aim to pioneer new models of international cooperation, mobilize multi-stakeholder coalitions, and harness the full potential of digital transformation for the betterment of people and the planet.The 2023 annual report encapsulates the multifaceted collaboration between the UAE and the United Nations—a partnership dedicated to realizing a sustainable, just, and prosperous future through concerted action and shared resolve, striving for a prosperous and peaceful world for all.

1 of 5

Story

18 March 2024

UNRCO in the UAE Innovates with UN FLEET Partnership: Leading the Way in Sustainable Vehicle Leasing

[Dubai, UAE] – In a pioneering move delivering on the UN Reform agenda, the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office (UNRCO) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has set a remarkable precedent by signing a partnership agreement with UN FLEET, making it the first UNRCO to opt for vehicle leasing over traditional procurement methods. This strategic decision demonstrates the UNRCO in the UAE's commitment to embracing innovative, efficient, safe, and sustainable solutions in its transport requirements.UN FLEET, a joint initiative by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the World Food Programme (WFP), stands at the forefront of UN Reform. The UNRCO in the UAE's decision to partner with UN FLEET represents a significant shift in the way UN entities satisfy their vehicle needs. Instead of buying vehicles outright, the UNRCO has chosen to lease from UN FLEET, a forward-thinking initiative within the United Nations system. This choice reflects a growing awareness of the benefits of leasing, which aligns perfectly with the UN's broader efficiency and sustainability goals.UN FLEET, at its core, offers vehicle leasing solutions that are not only cost-effective but also efficient, safe, and sustainable. This new partnership will enable the UNRCO in the UAE to access a modern fleet of vehicles without the long-term financial and operational burdens associated with vehicle procurement. By leasing vehicles from UN FLEET, the UNRCO will have the flexibility to adapt its fleet to changing needs, ensuring that it always has access to the latest in vehicle technology, safety features, and environmental standards.To mark the beginning of this groundbreaking partnership, the UNRCO in the UAE recently received its first vehicle from UN FLEET. By choosing a hybrid vehicle as its first addition from UN FLEET, the UNRCO in the UAE sends a powerful message about its dedication to sustainability. Hybrid vehicles offer a harmonious blend of traditional internal combustion engines and electric power, resulting in reduced emissions, improved fuel efficiency, and a smaller environmental impact. This underscores the UNRCO in the UAE's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.About: UN FLEET is a collaborative initiative by UNHCR and WFP, offers high-quality light vehicle leasing services to UN agencies worldwide. For any inquiries, please contact: UN FLEET:Phil Jones, Head of UN FLEET phil.jones@unfleet.orgAziza Bouhejba, Communications and Change Management Officer aziza.bouhejba@unfleet.org UNRCO in the UAE:Sara Chatila- Communications and Advocacy Officer at the UNRCO UAE – sara.chatila@un.org UNRCO in the UAE on social media : @UN_UAE @BBoell (on X) and IG: @UN_UAE

1 of 5

Story

20 January 2024

Secretary-General appoints Ms. Bérangère Boëll of France as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the United Arab Emirates

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Ms. Bérangère Boëll-Yousfi of France as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the United Arab Emirates, with the host Government’s approval. Ms. Boëll-Yousfi has 23 years of experience in international development and humanitarian cooperation in the Middle East and Africa. She has held management and leadership positions within the UN for 19 years with a solid track record of driving positive change, spearheading successful initiatives and fostering a collaborative and results-driven work environment. She brings extensive expertise in strategic planning, policy dialogue, development and humanitarian coordination, and advocacy for the 2030 Agenda. Prior to this appointment, she served as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Representative in Morocco, Libya, the DPRK, and more recently in Mozambique, leading strategic alliances and innovative solutions to tackle complex development challenges with national governments, civil society organizations, and international partners. She served as the UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim on multiple occasions in Libya and Mozambique, leading the UN's coordinated efforts amidst intricate circumstances. Prior to that, Ms. Boëll-Yousfi served as UNFPA Regional Advisor, developing strategic partnerships for 21 countries in East and Southern Africa. She joined UNFPA after holding various senior positions within the United Nations Works and Relief Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) for eight years in Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. Ms. Boëll-Yousfi started her career in a Spanish NGO in the Caribbean region and in North Africa for five years. Ms. Bérangère Boëll holds a Master’s Degree in International Cooperation from the Complutense University of Madrid and two Bachelors’ degrees in Political Sciences and Foreign Languages from Paris VIII and la Sorbonne University. For more information on the role of the United Nations Resident Coordinator, visit this page.

1 of 5

View all

Press Release

24 February 2025

Boost road safety for people, planet and prosperity

If you had to guess the leading cause of death for children and young people globally, what would you say? Malaria? Pneumonia? Suicide? They’re all up there, but no, it’s road crashes. Cars have been around for over 120 years, and we know how to prevent these tragedies. Yet road crashes still claim more than two lives every minute, and nearly 1.2 million lives every year. If these deaths were caused by a virus, it would be called a pandemic and the world would scramble to develop vaccines to prevent them. And yet reducing road deaths has long been overlooked, misunderstood and underfunded. People will always make mistakes on the roads, but we have proven solutions that ensure our transport systems can absorb these errors in a way that significantly reduces the risk of death. As part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, the world has set an ambitious target of halving road deaths worldwide by 2030. Just ten countries - including some hard-hit low and middle-income countries – managed to reduce road deaths by more than 50% in a decade, and more than 30 countries are close behind. This shows that the target can be met but it is nowhere near enough. We need urgent action. Key to meeting this goal is the decision to design and build our transport systems for people - not for motor vehicles - and to make safety paramount in all decisions and actions. This is especially important for the most vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcycle riders, who are often left dangerously exposed. Advancing road safety is crucial in itself, but it is also key to sustainable development overall. The world is going through an unprecedented wave of motorization. More than a billion vehicles are on the roads. This is unsustainable, so we must focus on moving people, not cars, motorbikes and trucks. Transport accounts for one quarter of global carbon emissions, and fuels congestion in our cities. Yet when mobility is made safe and accessible, people choose the greener options of public transport, walking and cycling.Designing cities around sustainable transport - with cycling lanes, pedestrian zones, and accessible public transport - also strengthens communities by making spaces safer and more livable, while improving access to adequate housing and basic services for all.Safe roads power economies. Road deaths can cost countries around 3 to 5% of GDP, and ensuring more people can move safely to their jobs, schools and vital services drives development. Safe, accessible and affordable transport also breaks down barriers to jobs, schools and opportunities for disadvantaged groups. This helps ensure everyone can reach their potential.The same holds true for gender equality, and in some countries up to 80% of women report suffering harassment on public transport, so we must make transport safe for women and girls.Road safety is everyone’s business and to succeed we need a range of sectors to be involved. Urban planners and engineers must ensure safety is built into infrastructure. Academia and civil society can generate evidence. The media can dig deeper into what works, what doesn’t and why. The private sector has tremendous influence. Businesses can contribute to safe and sustainable mobility by applying proven principles and practices throughout their value chains. They must only sell vehicles that meet United Nations safety standards.Yet the role of government is paramount. Governments must provide strategic and well-coordinated approaches, strong policy and legal frameworks that enforce safety standards and safe behaviors, and sufficient funding. Law enforcement and education are also key. This vision is right at the heart of the Global Plan for the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which offers a blueprint for governments to reduce road deaths.This week, world leaders will meet for a Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Morocco. They will assess progress, share knowledge, and advance actions to halve road deaths by 2030.They are set to adopt a new Marrakech Declaration, which recognizes road safety as an urgent public health and development priority, and that our efforts must be guided by the principles of equity, accessibility, and sustainability. The Declaration calls on leaders to step up efforts to action the Global Plan for the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety. We need a step change in political will, a sense of urgency, evidenced-based, strategies that are costed and implemented, strong coordination and adequate financing. Road safety is a crisis that has gone on far too long. No road deaths are necessary or acceptable. Yet it is also much more than that. Safe and sustainable mobility can power a better future for us all. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHOJean Todt, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road SafetyAchim Steiner, Administrator of UNDPRabab Fatima, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing StatesInger Andersen, UN Under-Secretary-General & Executive Director of UNEPAnaclaudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-HabitatFilippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of UNOPSTatiana Molcean, UN Under-Secretary-General/Executive Secretary of UNECEArmida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of UNESCAPClaver Gatete, Executive Secretary of UNECARola Dashti, Executive Secretary of ESCWAJosé Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, Executive Secretary of UNECLACGilles Michaud, Under-Secretary-General for Safety and Security (UNDSS)Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth AffairsLi Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA).

1 of 5

Press Release

24 January 2025

Statement on the International Day of Education 2025 UNESCO Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen

This year not only do we celebrate the transformative power of education towards sustainable development, but we also reflect on the challenges and opportunities that shape our world. As we focus on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and human agency, we are reminded of the profound impact technology has on our lives and the need for thoughtful and responsible engagement with these advancements, safeguarding human rights and preserving linguistic and cultural diversity.AI holds immense potential to revolutionize industries, enhance our daily lives, and tackle complex global challenges. However, as we integrate AI more deeply into society and education, it is crucial to remember the irreplaceable value of prominently human skills and competencies, such as critical thinking, empathy, and creativity. It is, therefore, important to build critical AI literacies, by equipping educators and learners with the competencies needed to understand, use and shape AI technologies. UNESCO has developed AI competency frameworks for teachers and learners, the first ever such frameworks, that outline core competencies for teachers to understand the technical, ethical and pedagogical dimension of AI and for learners to become responsible and creative citizens, co-creators of AI and future leaders who will shape novel iterations of the technology and define its relationship with society. In the Gulf States, a pioneer region in this field, the UNESCO Regional Office, with key strategic partners, is mapping the extent to which AI is integrated in the education systems, how it is being implemented, and what impact this is having on the classroom, teachers and learners. The Regional Office in Doha is also developing a guidance for school leaders on critical AI literacies, mindful of the opportunities and challenges that technology presents. UNESCO is also supporting its Member States on integrating the Ethics of AI in their regulatory frameworks, including in the education systems and across sectors.In concluding, on this day, let us reflect on how AI complements, rather than replaces, the essential human elements of learning and creativity, including the cultivation of in-person relationships and emotional intelligence.

1 of 5

Press Release

31 October 2024

UN-Habitat announces the twelfth session of the World Urban Forum

Dubai, UAE – October 2024 – The twelfth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), one of the largest United Nations non-legislative events, will be held from 4 to 8 November 2024 in Cairo, Egypt. A UAE-led delegation will attend and participate in the forum consisting of representatives from the government, private sector, and others.Organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in collaboration with the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt, this event will be held under the patronage of the Prime Minister, along with the Ministry of Local Development and the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities of Egypt. A historic return to AfricaFor the first time since 2001, the World Urban Forum returns to Africa. As the continent faces rapid urbanization, the significance of this global event cannot be understated. Africa’s population is projected to nearly double over the next 30 years, with 6 major cities expected to house more than 10 million people by 2035. The African cities of Luanda, Dar es Salaam, Cairo, Kinshasa, Lagos, and Greater Johannesburg are set to become some of the world’s largest metropolitan hubs, according to the EIU African Cities 2035 report.With Africa emerging as the fastest urbanizing region, WUF12 will focus on addressing the key challenges faced by cities globally, but with particular attention to the African context.Global participation and impactful dialogueThe five-day event is expected to attract thousands of participants from all over the world, including representatives from national, regional, and local governments, businesses, community leaders, urban planners, and civil society organizations. To date, over 6,500 attendees from 160 countries have registered for the Forum. WUF12 will feature more than 500 events, an extended Urban Expo, and Cairo Urban Week – a programme of activities connecting WUF12 to the city and its communities. The main sessions of WUF12 will be livestreamed in all six UN languages, as well as in International and Arabic Sign Languages.Key issues on the agendaThe overarching theme of the twelfth session is “It all starts at home: Local actions for sustainable cities and communities.” This theme broadens the concept of “home” beyond the physical structure, emphasizing the cultural, social, economic, and environmental dimensions of life in cities. The Forum will focus on how cities can be leveraged to accelerate global progress towards sustainable development and inclusive growth.Key topics to be discussed include:Adequate and affordable housing for allCities and climate crisisPartnerships to bridge global goals to local realitiesUnlocking local financing for sustainable developmentHarnessing technology to enhance quality of life without leaving no one behindBuilding safe homes in the face of destruction and displacement.“At the Forum, we will address crucial challenges, such as housing, land use, urban planning, and governance. We will listen to diverse stakeholders and tackle key questions: how to ensure safe and affordable housing for all, how to undertake recovery and reconstruction, build climate resilience, and ensure digital transformation benefits everyone,” said Anacláudia Rossbach, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat.Ms. Berangere Boell, the UN Resident Coordinator for the UAE, stated, “The World Urban Forum provides a unique opportunity for collaboration with the UAE in promoting innovative and sustainable urban solutions. The UAE’s dedication to leveraging technology and inclusive urban planning serves as a valuable model for addressing global urban challenges and shaping the cities of tomorrow.”

"The WUF in Cairo is an invaluable opportunity for devising actionable plans to transform future cities, using the latest technological advancements and innovative urban solutions, while embracing local initiatives and the uniqueness of our historic cities, with the participation of experts and stakeholders from over 160 countries. It also serves as a great platform to promote our growing collaboration with our UAE partners in the field of urban growth, sustainability and improved quality of life. In addition to showcasing the Egyptian New Administrative Capital as a model for sustainable and smart urbanization ". said Egyptian Ambassador in Abu Dhabi, HE Mr. Sherif Issa. A call to actionWUF12 is not just about discussions but is also an invitation to take home innovative solutions, best practices, and inspiration. It is a call to participants to lead transformational change locally, together, and now.To register, visit: www.wuf.unhabitat.org.
About the World Urban ForumEstablished in 2001 by the United Nations, the World Urban Forum is the premier global conference on sustainable urbanization, designed to examine the impacts of rapid urbanization on cities, communities, economies, and climate change. Since its inception, WUF has been hosted in cities across the world, with the first session held in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2002.—END—About UN-HabitatUN-Habitat is the United Nations entity responsible for sustainable urbanization. It has programmes in over 90 countries supporting policymakers and communities to create socially and environmentally sustainable cities and towns. UN-Habitat promotes transformative change in cities through knowledge, policy advice, technical assistance, and collaborative action. To know more, visit unhabitat.org.“The World Urban Forum presents a unique platform for the UN to collaborate with the UAE in advancing innovative, sustainable urban solutions. The UAE’s commitment to harnessing technology and inclusive urban planning offers valuable lessons for addressing global urban challenges and shaping cities of the future.”

1 of 5

Press Release

22 February 2024

WHO to send life-saving health supplies to Gaza Strip in partnership with Dubai’s International Humanitarian City

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Amid a worsening health emergency, the World Health Organization (WHO) logistics hub in Dubai, in partnership with Dubai’s International Humanitarian City, will be delivering critical health supplies worth over US$ 1.7 million to the Gaza Strip.In total, 80 metric tonnes of life-saving medicines, including insulin, are being delivered through a temporary air bridge between the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. Several air rotations are anticipated to deliver the supplies, which will support about 2 million people in the Gaza Strip.“WHO’s logistics hub in Dubai provides a lifeline to countries affected by health emergencies across the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and beyond. As the health crisis in the Gaza Strip unfolds and as hostilities in Rafah escalate, these medicines are critical for people whose access to medical care has been severely restricted owing to shortages facing the health system as a whole,” said Dr Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.“WHO is grateful for the support of Dubai’s International Humanitarian City, the Government of Dubai and the Government of the United Arab Emirates to deliver life-saving supplies to the world’s most vulnerable populations in their greatest time of need,” Dr Balkhy added.Rafah’s population has increased five-fold to 1.5 million as it now houses half of Gaza’s displaced people. Still more families continue to arrive in Rafah as violence intensifies in the southern Gaza Strip.“Since 2018, the logistics hub at Dubai’s IHC has been at the forefront of WHO’s humanitarian response, reaching over 100 million people with humanitarian health supplies. Our coordination for the response to the humanitarian emergency in Gaza began in October. Today, we continue to closely coordinate with WHO and all our partners to address the pressing needs for humanitarian health assistance in Gaza, with the ongoing airbridge and at least four additional airlifts,” Giuseppe Saba, CEO of Dubai’s International Humanitarian City said.Through its logistics hub in Dubai, WHO has delivered enough medicines to reach over 1 million people in Gaza since October 2023. Yet the needs continue to grow, and the delivery of supplies continues to be impeded by denials of access for humanitarian aid.WHO has persevered to deliver vital medical supplies and to support health services in Gaza, navigating complex logistical and security obstacles to do so. The needs, however, far exceed the aid, and the sustained delivery of health supplies from Egypt into the southern Gaza Strip is vital to WHO’s ongoing operations to address severe medicine shortages and to bolster an ailing health system.

1 of 5

Press Release

21 February 2024

UNESCO Statement on the International Mother Language Day

The International Mother Language Day was approved during the 1999 UNESCO General Conference at the initiative of Bangladesh. Since then, this day has been observed globally, uniting people in their shared commitment to preserving linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. It is a day to celebrate linguistic diversity across the globe, to recognize that every language is a treasure of knowledge, history, and tradition. It is a reminder that linguistic rights are human rights, and that we must strive to protect and promote the languages of all peoples, especially those endangered or marginalized.Today, 40% of the world’s population does not have access to education in a language they speak or understand. In some countries this figure rises to over 90%. However, strides are being made in multilingual education, especially in early schooling. Research shows that the use of learners’ own language in schools provides a solid foundation for learning, boosts self-esteem and critical thinking skills, and opens the door for inter-generational learning, language revitalization, and the preservation of culture and intangible heritage. The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Multilingual education is a pillar of intergenerational learning’. UNESCO believes that literacy programmes and methodologies respond to the needs of learners when they are context-relevant, possibly multilingual and support intercultural understanding within the framework of lifelong learning. UNESCO promotes multilingualism, that is the use of more than one language in daily life, especially in contexts where different linguistic groups exist in the same country. Multilingual education based on the mother tongue(s) in the early years of schooling plays a key role in the transition from home to school and fosters respect for diversity. Multilingual education also extends to families and communities. By preserving and revitalizing languages, we bridge generational gaps and ensure that cultural heritage is passed down and cultural identity is protected. With students learning in their mother tongue language, parents and families are more likely to be involved in the learning of their children. UNESCO recognizes the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity for building sustainable societies. Our languages serve as conduits for transmitting and preserving traditional knowledge and cultures. They foster tolerance, respect, and understanding among diverse communities. Let us celebrate our linguistic diversity and heritage. Each language contributes to the rich tapestry of humanity. By preserving languages, promoting multilingual education, we build bridges across generations, and people, ensuring our cultural legacies, and realizing one of the key objectives of education, which is to learn how to live together. - - UNESCO Office for the Gulf States and Yemen

1 of 5

View all