UAE adapts landmark Climate Law

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the pioneer countries in protection of environment and promoting sustainable development. The UAE launched its Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative in October 2021, marking the first such commitment in the Middle East North Africa (MENA). A Net Zero 2050 Charter was signed in March 2023 by all federal and emirate-level governments, operationalizing the strategy. In January 2024, the UAE formally submitted its Long-Term Strategy (LTS) to the UNFCCC, legally enshrining the 2050 net-zero target. 

A significant legislation is the UAE Federal Decree-Law No 11 of 2024 on Reduction of the Effects of Climate Change. The law was enacted on August 28, 2024, and came into effect on May 30, 2025. The landmark Decree-Law aims at Managing emissions within the State so as to ensure effective contribution to international efforts aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and achieving climate neutrality; Strengthening the capacity of ecosystems, economic sectors, and society to adapt to the impacts of climate change; Supporting innovation, research, and development, utilizing modern technology, building capacities, enhancing the private sector’s contribution, and leveraging international cooperation mechanisms to support the efforts of mitigation and adaptation in the State; Sharing data related to emissions and the impacts of climate change at the national level, and supporting regional and international cooperation in the field of knowledge and data related to climate change; and Aligning national and local plans and strategies related to mitigation and adaptation, enhancing the State’s position in global competitiveness indicators, and supporting sustainable development efforts, green and circular economies, and economic diversification plans in the State. 

According to the legislation, all emission sources are required to contribute to climate change mitigation in order to achieve climate neutrality. The law stipulates that this shall be accomplished through one or more of the following means: improving energy efficiency, using clean energy, enhancing and protecting natural carbon sinks, implementing carbon capture, use, and storage (CCUS), adopting alternatives to saturated fluorocarbons, engaging in carbon offsetting, and applying integrated waste management. The legislation further provides that any other technologies or methods may also be utilized, as determined by the Ministry and the competent authority or relevant entity. Moreover, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in coordination with the concerned entities and competent authorities, is empowered to issue resolutions establishing the controls, standards, and requirements for the implementation of these measures. 

The legislation also requires that companies must submit regular emissions reports to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, develop decarbonisation plans aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and establish greenhouse gas monitoring systems that adhere to international standards. Those failing to comply could face fines of up to Dh2 million ($544,588). The law also establishes a National Carbon Credit Registry to enable carbon trading and shadow carbon pricing, promoting market-driven emissions reduction, and which will also include information on carbon credits and carbon credit retirement. 

According to the UAE Climate Law, implementation will follow a phased approach, giving companies time to adjust to the new regulatory framework. A key milestone follows in November 2025, when the first Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reporting deadline is scheduled, requiring entities to disclose their emissions data. From 2026 onwards, the law envisions the commencement of sectoral emissions reduction initiatives, signalling a shift from planning to active climate mitigation across industries. 

At its core, the new UAE Climate Law seeks to establish a robust legal framework that drives climate action across both the public and private sectors. By aligning with the country’s ambitious climate targets, the law reinforces the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and low-carbon growth. Supported by strong regulations, phased implementation, and transformative projects, the law is positioning the UAE as a regional leader in sustainable development and decarbonization.