Dubai hosted the inaugural Sustainability Excellence Awards 2025, highlighting UAE sustainability leadership across industries. The event recognized 20 organisations and individuals driving sustainable change nationwide. Leaders gathered to honor achievements and inspire further action toward environmental responsibility.
The awards, organized by Gulf News and BeingShe, took place at the SEE Institute, The Sustainable City. Over 100 nominations competed, covering sectors such as construction, retail, healthcare, finance, technology, free zones, and agriculture. Each winner demonstrated measurable impact, innovative solutions, and long-term commitment to sustainability, reflecting the UAE’s growing emphasis on UAE sustainability leadership.
The ceremony began with remarks from Dr Habiba Al Marashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Emirates Environmental Group. She stressed how sustainability evolved from a niche concern to a national priority. “Sustainability is our pathway to long-term prosperity and global leadership,” she said. She also encouraged organisations to act with conviction, not merely compliance, emphasizing that meaningful leadership creates lasting legacy.
Vijay Vaghela, CEO of Gulf News, highlighted the importance of recognizing sustainability-driven organisations. He noted that today’s choices shape the future, urging businesses to prioritize transparency, innovation, as well as ongoing commitment. “Every action matters, and leaders here tonight set the standard for a better future,” he added.
Aparna Bajpai, Founder of BeingShe, explained that visibility encourages replication and accelerates impact. She noted that while over 70 percent of GCC companies include sustainability in strategies, fewer than 25 percent receive recognition. “Tonight launches a movement where business becomes sustainable, responsible, and innovative,” she said, emphasizing collaboration and accountability.
The event’s sponsor, Karma Developers, reinforced its commitment to environmental responsibility. Founder and Chairman Captain Pradeep Singh urged attendees to make daily sustainable choices and educate future generations. “We owe responsibility to the next generation. Action today ensures a stable future,” he said.
The jury evaluated nominees based on measurable results, innovation, and long-term impact. Moreover, members included representatives from the Fujairah Environment Authority, Masdar City, SEE Environment, and Bureau Veritas. Cultural highlights featured eco-friendly floral arrangements and live sand-art performances showcasing the UAE’s transformation from desert heritage to climate innovation.
Overall, the Sustainability Excellence Awards 2025 reinforced that environmental progress relies on ambition, collaboration, and organisations leading from the front. The ceremony showcased how UAE sustainability leadership is shaping industries, inspiring change, as well as advancing national strategies toward a sustainable future.
