UAE showcases global leadership at UN SDGs

Strong presence at the UN Forum

The UAE’s active participation was marked by a high-level delegation representing several ministries and key organizations. These included the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, the Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), and the General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs, among others.

Promoting innovation and collaboration

Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, highlighted the UAE’s innovative approach to development cooperation. He pointed to initiatives like the 2045 XDGs Report and GEEP as models that demonstrate strategic partnerships and forward-looking development.

Preparing for the 2026 voluntary national review

Lootah announced the start of preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR) to assess progress on the SDGs. The review will involve contributions from government, private sector, and civil society, reinforcing the UAE’s dedication to transparency and long-term, sustainable development planning.

Hosting the UN Water Conference 2026

The UAE is also preparing to host the UN Water Conference in December 2026, further emphasizing its role in advancing global water sustainability and promoting environmental solutions.

Advancing global partnerships and dialogue

The UAE delegation showcased national initiatives and leadership in climate action and human development through events like the “Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future” exhibition. A session by GEEP expanded the UAE’s partnership network to nearly 50 countries and six international organizations.

Launch of the 2045 XDGs Report

A key highlight was the launch of the 2045 XDGs Report, which outlines global development priorities beyond 2030. Supported by a global survey, the report aims to guide international efforts to address emerging challenges and identify opportunities over the next two decades.

Championing innovation through global councils

The UAE highlighted the Global Councils for SDGs, launched at the World Government Summit, as vital platforms uniting global leaders from various sectors to share knowledge and accelerate SDG progress.

Focus on gender equality and child welfare

Sessions organized by the General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs spotlighted gender balance, women's leadership, and child welfare, while addressing the digital gender divide. These sessions underlined the role of inclusive growth in sustainable development.

Economic diplomacy and sustainable growth

The UAE hosted a roundtable on reimagining economic growth, linking economic and social objectives. It led discussions on economic diplomacy to promote global stability and sustainability.

Environmental initiatives on the global stage

The Ministry of Interior presented successful cross-border projects like the Green Shield Operation, which protects biodiversity in the Amazon Basin—a showcase of the UAE’s contribution to global environmental cooperation.

Strengthening bilateral engagements

Throughout the forum, the UAE conducted 48 bilateral meetings and participated in key events like Science Day, reinforcing its commitment to international cooperation.

About the HLPF

The High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development is the UN’s main platform for reviewing global progress on the SDGs, providing a space for governments and organizations to align efforts toward a sustainable future.