The Green Innovation District at Expo City Dubai aims to attract global businesses focused on circularity, clean energy, sustainable manufacturing and urban farming. Photo Credit: Expo City Dubai
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism and Expo City Dubai have come together to launch the first Green Innovation District at Expo City Dubai, a new hub designed to accelerate the country’s green economy, industrial diversification and net-zero ambitions in the UAE.
Developed with four founding partners, the district aims to attract global businesses focused on circularity, clean energy, sustainable manufacturing and urban farming.
Located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Expo City Dubai was selected for its sustainable infrastructure, free zone status and connectivity linking Jebel Ali Port to Al Maktoum International Airport.
The district will offer office, retail, F&B and light industrial spaces, alongside farm plots, and introduce the UAE’s first Green Licence to support environmentally aligned businesses. An on-site Ministry of Economy IP Office will further encourage R&D and technology localisation.
UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, HE Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, said the district will serve as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth and support the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
Expo City Dubai CEO, HE Reem Al Hashimy, added that it will build a community of eco-conscious businesses while reinforcing the UAE’s global leadership in green development.
Founding partners include Intesa Sanpaolo, which brings expertise in circular economy financing as one of the largest banking groups in the Eurozone and the only Italian bank with a presence in the UAE; Nestlé, offering technical knowledge and sustainability innovation; Majra, the UAE’s National CSR Fund; and Palmade, a local startup producing biodegradable products from discarded date palm leaves.
The Green Innovation District was announced at the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum at Expo City Dubai, which convened leaders from more than 350 cities to share strategies for sustainable urban development.