UAE Honored with Prestigious Award at 2024 Small Island Developing States Partnerships Awards

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and development by clinching a prestigious award at the 2024 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Partnerships Awards. The UAE was honored with the top prize in the Economic Category for its outstanding initiatives, the UAE Pacific Partnership Fund and UAE Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund.

These two groundbreaking sustainability projects, nominated by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), have been instrumental in driving the transition to renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, enhancing energy security, and mitigating the impacts of climate change in the Caribbean and Pacific regions. With a mobilized fund of US$100 million, the UAE has collaborated with various stakeholders, including three UAE entities, one university, and 26 governments from Small Island Developing States, to develop solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects. These initiatives not only improve access to energy but also promote economic development, stimulate local economies, foster innovation, create jobs, empower women, and enhance climate resilience in the regions.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and Chairman of the Fund’s Executive Committee, expressed his gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his efforts in promoting sustainability initiatives globally. He also commended His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development for their relentless focus on developing renewable energy sources in Small Island Developing States, particularly in the Caribbean.

The award received by the UAE reflects the country’s steadfast dedication to sustainable development and environmental preservation at both regional and global levels. Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the UAE’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and environmental stewardship through impactful collaborations. He emphasized the significance of the UAE’s initiatives in accelerating the transition to renewable energy and reducing fossil fuel dependence in the Caribbean and Pacific regions.

The UAE’s visionary leadership in sustainability was further underscored by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s decision to extend the ‘Year of Sustainability’ into 2024, showcasing the country’s deep-rooted environmental values and commitment to building a resilient and prosperous future for all. The UAE’s pivotal role in climate change mitigation was also highlighted through its hosting of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in 2023.

The UAE’s recognition at the 2024 SIDS Partnerships Awards is a testament to its pioneering initiatives and collaborative efforts in promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The country’s commitment to driving positive change and addressing global challenges through innovative partnerships sets a remarkable example for others to follow.