Expo City is ramping up its preparations for the upcoming COP28 climate conference, showcasing the UAE’s prominent role in addressing global issues. In collaboration with local and federal authorities, Dubai is diligently crafting plans to ensure the smooth arrival and movement of conference attendees. A shuttle service will be available to transport guests and participants to the designated Blue and Green Zones.
The Blue Zone is reserved for official delegations, while the Green Zone is open to the public, non-governmental organizations, and other participants. A unique aspect of COP28 is the proximity of the Green Zone to the Blue Zone, facilitating direct interaction between decision-makers, officials, students, and community groups. This approach aims to align conference outcomes with the aspirations of the general public, fostering concrete and decisive action for the betterment of current and future generations.
Hend Al Mheiri, Director of Special Projects at Expo City Dubai
The UAE is dedicated to inspiring both local and international communities to collaborate on effective sustainability practices and bolster global efforts to address environmental and climate challenges. Expo City Dubai is held up as a model for a sustainable city, with its expertise and competencies placing it among the leading destinations.
Hosting COP28 reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to environmental sustainability and addressing climate change challenges.
In keeping with the UAE’s spirit of cooperation and collaboration, Al Mheiri highlighted numerous programs and initiatives that have been developed to create a distinguished platform for COP28. These efforts aim to find practical solutions to issues like emissions, food waste, energy, water, and more, uniting stakeholders in the pursuit of environmental and climate sustainability.
Additionally, Al Mheiri noted that Expo City provides dedicated spaces for media coverage and interviews, including well-equipped media centers in both the Blue and Green Zones, complete with high-speed internet and studio services for journalists. Accredited media outlets will have access to these facilities.
Expo City’s strategic location near major roads, easy accessibility by car from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, integration with the public transportation network, and dedicated metro station and bus routes make it well-prepared to receive and facilitate the arrival of COP28 attendees. Al Mheiri emphasized that the UAE’s experience in organizing Expo 2020 Dubai, which successfully hosted 192 countries and garnered millions of visitors, has been invaluable in planning for COP28.
Expo City Dubai stands as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to sustainability. Its design and construction have prioritized environmental responsibility, with a focus on minimizing the environmental footprint, conserving natural resources, reducing pollution, and cutting carbon emissions. The city adheres to the highest environmental standards, serving as a global and sustainable platform for advancing environmental and climate sustainability.
Furthermore, Expo City places human well-being at its core, striving for carbon neutrality and offering a blueprint for innovative, sustainable urban planning. The city’s ambitious goals align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, the UAE’s Strategic Climate Neutrality Initiative for 2050, and the UAE’s Centennial 2071 vision.