Nairobi: A UAE delegation led by Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, participated in the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Kenya. The Assembly convened from 8th to 12th December 2025 under the theme 'Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet'.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Dahak delivered the UAE National Statement, emphasizing the nation's commitment to sustainability as inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. She highlighted the US$30 billion ALT‚¬Å¡¬°RRA investment fund launched in 2023 to address the global climate finance gap. The UAE's leadership in nature-based solutions, like the Mangrove Alliance for Climate with Indonesia, was also underscored.
The UAE delegation included notable figures such as Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Dr. Alanoud Alhaj, and Engineer Aisha Al Abdooli, among others. The delegation benefited from diplomatic support led by Dr. Salim Ibrahim bin Ahmed Mohammed Al Naqbi, UAE Ambassador to Kenya, who facilitated engagements and coordination during the event.
In addressing global water security, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment through initiatives like the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative and a US$150 million pledge announced at COP28. The UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 was also highlighted as a framework guiding national efforts.
Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi addressed the need to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and the UAE's goal to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050. The UAE's comprehensive approach to aligning financial policies with climate objectives was discussed, including a pledge by UAE Banks Federation to allocate more than AED 1 trillion to sustainable finance by 2030.
Dr. Alanoud Alhaj highlighted the UAE's integration of international commitments into national policies and the engagement of youth in shaping environmental strategies. During the Assembly, 11 key resolutions were adopted, addressing issues from digital sustainability and resource management to ecosystem protection and health.
The Assembly concluded with the announcement of UNEA-8 to be held in December 2027 under the Presidency of Jamaica, aiming to build upon the outcomes of UNEA-7.