Coral Beach Resort Sharjah becomes UAE’s first Glasgow Declaration signatory
Tourism sector targets halving emissions by 2030 under global pact
SHARJAH – The Coral Beach Resort Sharjah has been officially recognised as a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, marking a milestone for the UAE’s hospitality sector.
The property is the first and only hotel in the country to join the global initiative, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable tourism practices. The recognition underscores a growing commitment within the regional travel industry to align with international climate goals.
Launched during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in 2021, the Glasgow Declaration brings together stakeholders across tourism to accelerate climate action. Its central objective is to reduce carbon emissions by at least 50 percent by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions as early as possible before 2050, in line with science-based targets.
Global pledge
By becoming a signatory, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah has formally committed to advancing climate ambition in line with these global targets. The agreement requires participants to develop and deliver a comprehensive climate action plan within 12 months of joining. This plan must align with five key pathways: Measure, Decarbonise, Regenerate, Collaborate, and Finance.
Signatories are also required to report progress annually, ensuring transparency and accountability in their sustainability journey. In addition, the initiative encourages knowledge-sharing across the sector, enabling organisations to exchange best practices and scalable solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact.
Local recognition
The hotel’s latest achievement builds on its earlier recognition at the Sharjah International Travel & Tourism Forum Awards 2025, where it was honoured under the Sustain Sharjah category. The award, presented by the Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority on November 19, 2025, highlighted the property’s comprehensive sustainability framework.
This framework is structured around six core pillars: Climate, Waste, Culture, Water, Nature, and Education. These areas guide the hotel’s operational strategy, ensuring that environmental responsibility is integrated across all aspects of its services and guest experience.
Sustainability drive
Operational initiatives at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah include an advanced waste management system, an on-site water bottling plant, and energy-efficient technologies implemented across facilities. The hotel is also engaged in recycling programmes and tree-planting partnerships, contributing to broader environmental conservation efforts.
According to Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager of Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, the recognition reflects a sustained commitment to reducing the property’s carbon footprint through measurable and accountable practices.
The hotel’s approach combines infrastructure upgrades with community engagement, aiming to deliver tangible environmental outcomes while maintaining service standards.
As part of its Glasgow Declaration commitments, the resort will continue to monitor emissions, implement decarbonisation strategies, and collaborate with industry partners. The initiative also places emphasis on regenerative practices, ensuring that tourism contributes positively to natural ecosystems and local communities.
Coral Hotels and Resorts
Coral Hotels and Resorts, managed by HMH – Hospitality Management Holding, was established in 2003 as the Middle East’s first dry hotel chain. The brand operates a portfolio of four- and five-star properties across key destinations in the Middle East and North Africa, catering to a wide range of travellers including families, business guests, and long-stay visitors.
Its portfolio includes properties such as Coral Beirut Al Hamra Hotel, Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments, Coral Al Ahsa Hotel, Coral Jubail Hotel, Coral Al Khobar Hotel, Coral Khartoum Hotel, Coral Port Sudan Hotel, Coral Dubai Deira Hotel, and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah. Across its locations, the group offers diverse dining, leisure, and business facilities designed to meet varying guest needs while maintaining a focus on quality service and operational excellence.