COP28 in the UAE is three months away, stirring excitement and anticipation among policymakers, scientists, activists, and global leaders eager to convene and propel the momentum for meaningful climate action on the international stage. This upcoming conference holds the promise of building upon the achievements of previous COP events, as nations prepare to present updated commitments, innovative solutions, and collaborative strategies to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
Since its inception in 1971, the UAE has supported the global climate agenda. As a country at the heart of climate impacts and undergoing a major energy transition, the UAE has long viewed climate change as a challenge that must be overcome.
The UAE’s hosting of COP28 builds on the country’s track record of action to meet the global climate challenge. After all, the country is a global hub for logistics, transportation and green technology and is at the crossroads of business, commerce and tourism. UAE is therefore uniquely positioned to build bridges and foster consensus to accelerate inclusive climate progress.
Moreover, the UAE is the first country in the region to ratify the Paris Agreement, the first to commit to an economy-wide reduction in emissions, and the first to announce a Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, proving its commitment to raising ambition for climate action.
COP28: DATE AND VENUE
The 28th session of the Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC (COP28), hosted by the UAE, will open at Expo City Dubai on 30 November 2023. It will run until 12 December 2023.
The venue’s size and design enable COP28 UAE to serve as an inclusive platform for dialogue, by offering a dedicated space to the accredited parties and observer delegates site (Blue Zone) and to civil society (Green Zone).
The conference is expected to convene over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, industry leaders, academics, and representatives from civil society organizations.
COP28: THEME
As host, the UAE will mobilise action around a “major course correction” to accelerate emissions reductions while ensuring energy security. DrAl Jaber has also highlighted the role of the UAE in building bridges to advance international efforts at COP28, with a special focus on the Global South and countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
COP28 is of particular significance as it marks the conclusion of the first Global Stocktake, a comprehensive assessment of the progress made in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Acknowledging that the world is off-track, the COP28 Presidency has said it will work to keep the 1.5C goal alive and ensure that the world responds to the Stocktake with a clear plan of action, including measures that need to be put in place to bridge the gaps in progress.
Sustainable agriculture will also feature prominently on the agenda at COP28, where participants will seek to spur innovation in how food is grown and produced.
