The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has recognized 153 hotels with the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp for their commitment to sustainability.
This is a significant increase from the 70 hotels awarded in the initiative’s first cycle, showing the growing dedication of Dubai’s hospitality sector to sustainable practices. The announcement was made at a ceremony at Atlantis The Royal.
Launched in July 2023, the DST Stamp awards hotels that meet specific sustainability requirements. These include energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and staff engagement.
The recognition is part of Dubai’s broader efforts to align with global sustainability goals and reduce carbon emissions, supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy.
Gold, Silver and Bronze recognitions
For 2024, 18 hotels earned the prestigious gold tier, including well-known resorts such as Atlantis, The Palm, and Jumeirah Al Qasr. Another 64 hotels were awarded silver, while 71 earned bronze. Each hotel underwent a thorough evaluation by independent assessors to ensure they met the high standards set by the DET’s ‘19 Sustainability Requirements’.
Yousuf Lootah, CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance at DET, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “The success of this initiative is a testament to the city’s visionary leadership, and underscores our strategic commitment to transforming the hospitality sector into a global benchmark for sustainable tourism.”
A step towards Dubai’s green future
The DST Stamp is aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to position Dubai as a leading global city for both business and leisure. Hotels that received the stamp are helping the city reach its sustainability goals and set an example for others in the hospitality sector.
Kelly Timmins, Executive Director at Atlantis Dubai, expressed pride in receiving the Gold DST Stamp, noting the commitment to sustainable hospitality through their Atlantis Atlas Project. “Sustainability is at the core of our operations, and we strive to do business in ways that benefit both people and the planet,” she said.
The initiative also supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to increase green spaces and nature reserves across the emirate, ensuring a greener, more sustainable future for Dubai.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com