Dubai wins UN Gold for pioneering sustainable and human-centred city model
Emirate aims to become first city globally to achieve Platinum status
DUBAI – In a landmark achievement reaffirming its position as a global leader in sustainable urban progress, Dubai has been awarded the Gold Certification by the United Nations’ SDG Cities Programme.
The honour was announced during the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum 2025, hosted at Expo Dubai, and represents a major recognition of the emirate’s human-centred and environmentally conscious development model.
The certification places Dubai among a select group of global cities that have demonstrated measurable success in implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through integrated, evidence-based policies. The announcement was made in the presence of senior Dubai government officials and the UN-Habitat’s representative for GCC countries, reflecting the collaborative governance framework that has powered the city’s sustainability achievements.
Sustainability vision
The announcement coincided with the launch of Dubai’s Voluntary Local Review (VLR) – the first of its kind in the region – underscoring the emirate’s commitment to aligning local strategies with global sustainability targets. The VLR evaluates progress across multiple SDG areas through a data-driven approach designed to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, credited the emirate’s leadership for its forward-thinking vision. “Dubai’s progress reflects the far-sighted vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai,” he said.
Al Basti emphasised that Dubai’s sustainable, human-centred model aspires to make it “the best and most beautiful city in the world.” The emirate’s cohesive and efficient government ecosystem, he added, is united by a shared purpose – anticipating needs, enabling innovation, and creating opportunities that safeguard the environment for future generations.
He noted that Dubai’s inclusion in the UN SDG Cities Programme for 2025 reinforces its commitment to inclusive and comprehensive sustainability. “We will continue to share our expertise with international partners while enhancing Dubai’s standing as a global destination for living, working, and achievement,” he said.
Collaborative governance
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, hailed the Gold Certification as a reflection of collective success. “Our sustainability accomplishments stem from the close collaboration of 13 government entities working together to translate global aspirations into tangible local impact,” he said.
Al Mansoori highlighted the role of Digital Dubai in fostering this transformation through shared digital platforms, integrated data ecosystems, and AI-driven insights. “Every data point in Dubai tells a story, every story informs decision-making, and every decision embodies the human dimension and the values of sustainability,” he said.
He also noted that while the Gold Certification marks a major milestone, Dubai’s ambition extends further – towards becoming the first city globally to earn the Platinum Certification from the UN SDG Cities Programme.
“We will continue to foster strong public-private partnerships, create innovative financing solutions for sustainable development, and invest in human and institutional capabilities — the true catalysts of progress,” Al Mansoori added.
Data-driven impact
The Gold Certification from the UN SDG Cities Programme is one of UN-Habitat’s highest honours. It is awarded to cities that demonstrate measurable, results-oriented action across economic, social, and environmental pillars of sustainability.
Dubai’s evaluation covered more than 70 indicators, encompassing governance, innovation, infrastructure, quality of life, and environmental performance. The city’s ability to link strategic planning with data-based decision-making was identified as a key strength in achieving sustainable growth.
The Voluntary Local Review presented at the summit provides a comprehensive analysis of Dubai’s SDG progress, identifying achievements and areas for further development. The review serves as a model for evidence-based urban governance and outcome-driven city planning, offering insights for other cities pursuing similar sustainability goals.
Developed in partnership with 13 Dubai government entities, the VLR showcases the emirate’s integrated approach to localising global frameworks. The report highlights Dubai’s achievements in sustainable infrastructure, digital transformation, renewable energy, environmental protection, and social inclusion.
Next phase ahead
Dubai’s sustainability strategy continues to align with its ambition to build a resilient, knowledge-based economy powered by innovation and opportunity. By leveraging technology and data as enablers, the emirate seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability goals.
The UN recognition further reinforces Dubai’s reputation as a model of future-ready urban development.