Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi has marked the completion of the first year of its Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) programme, reinforcing the emirate's position as a regional leader in climate-focused economic competitiveness and investment readiness. Since its launch, the MRV programme has covered more than 10 strategic economic activities across four key emitting sectors: power, oil and gas, industry, and transport. In its first year, the programme collected emissions data representing approximately 90 million tonnes of Abu Dhabi's CO2 emissions-the bulk of emissions from major regulated activities across the emirate.
According to Emirates News Agency, through consistent facility-level measurement, the MRV system enables operators to identify carbon-intensive processes, prioritise energy-efficiency improvements, reduce operational costs, and lower the carbon intensity of output. Over time, these efforts support higher productivity and stronger alignment with long-term decarbonisation objectives. Dr Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, stated that the inaugural year of the MRV programme marks a shift from ambition to precise, data-driven action. By capturing 90 million tonnes of CO2 emissions from more than 250 companies, the programme has brought 80 per cent of Abu Dhabi's major emitting activities under a single, transparent framework, establishing the foundation of a low-carbon economy.
She further explained that this emissions intelligence underpins a 22 per cent reduction target by 2027, translating data into decisive action across the industrial sector. It accelerates the adoption of new technologies, sharpens operational efficiency, and strengthens long-term economic resilience. By aligning outputs with international standards, Abu Dhabi is positioned as a center for green investment, reinforcing its leadership in global industrial innovation.
The programme was designed in consultation with public and private stakeholders to ensure practical implementation while supporting compliance with Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 on the Reduction of Climate Change Effects. Under Article (6), covered sources are required to measure, report, and verify greenhouse gas emissions, establishing a legal framework for transparent emissions reporting and regulatory oversight.
As the MRV programme advances into its next cycle, facilities within scope will be required to submit emissions data for the January-December 2025 reporting period by 31st March 2026, in accordance with the MRV Technical Guidance issued by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi. This requirement supports the programme's plans to establish consistent, high-quality emissions reporting across all regulated sectors.