In 2012, H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, launched the Green Economy Initiative. The project included the slogan 'a green economy for sustainable development.' The initiative aims to make the UAE a global pioneer in green economy products and technologies by maintaining and supporting long-term economic growth while protecting the environment.
The Green Economy Initiative includes programs and policies in the fields of energy, agriculture, investment, and sustainable transport, in addition to new environmental and construction policies. In order to control the effects of climate change, the UAE is monitoring emissions while increasing energy efficiency across all major branches of urban development. The ongoing efforts of the Dubai government have also supported the advancement of local green startups and companies making the switch to energy-efficient resources.
Emicool
Emicool, a leading district cooling company in the UAE, deploys a cost-effective, efficient, futuristic, digitally-transformed, and sustainable cooling system. Their services are provided at a lower cost with a better environmental footprint. The company focuses on using renewable energy for its operations and cooling processes.
Etihad Esco
Founded in 2013, Etihad Esco's mission is to increase the energy efficiency in Dubai's buildings by installing green technologies such as LED lighting, cooling systems, and photovoltaic solar panels. Their current plan includes retrofitting 30,000 existing structures around the city. The organization audits the energy at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai Airport Free Zone, and electric power plants in the Jebel Ali Free Zone.
Evakind
Evakind is an e-commerce platform for eco-friendly products founded by Sladjana Franovic. This green Dubai startup is on a mission to champion small, independent local and international brands that hold ethical, sustainable, and environment-friendly values. The online shopping platform offers a range of eco-friendly homeware, cleaning, personal care, and beauty products. It is partially owned by Casinetto, a UAE-based food distribution company that was founded in 2010, whose warehouses and strong supply chains enable Evakind to import and store products from all around the world.
Goumbook
An online information center providing details of environmentally conscious businesses and individuals throughout the UAE and the Gulf, Goumbook seeks to help organizations improve sustainability and eco-conscious practices. The organization currently partners with local Emirati government sectors and major corporate names, including Mubadala, Proctor & Gamble, Bloomberg, HSBC, and more.
DGRADE
Using recycled plastic bottles, DGRADE is reshaping how we produce everyday items. By processing these discarded materials, the company is able to create their proprietary Greenspun polyester yarn that is spun into material used for clothing, reusable cups, masks, and bags. Their website features an online shop for direct e-commerce and a wholesale option for organizations sourcing green products. DGRADE works with local schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as event management companies and local corporate offices for Al Futtaim, Coca-Cola, Virgin, Unilever, and more.
Back to Nature
Focusing on compostable food packaging, Back to Nature offers a wide range of tableware options that are sourced from plant-based materials. Featured products are made from earth-friendly resources like bamboo, sugar cane, corn, and wheat straw. With a mission to reduce single-use plastics that dominate the foodservice industry, Back to Nature demonstrates creative solutions that don't sacrifice quality or safety.
As Dubai continues efforts towards its sustainability goals, entrepreneurs and startups are at the forefront of the green revolution. To begin your journey in Dubai, start at Sentinel Business Centres. Our team is the leading local expert in Middle East commerce, with services covering business setup, fully serviced finished offices, admin support, and more. Contact us to learn more.