Dubai Department Of Economy And Tourism Awards 153 Hotels With Sustainable Tourism Stamp In 2024

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has recognised 153 hotels with the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp in its second cycle. This represents a 118% rise from the previous year, highlighting Dubai's hospitality sector's dedication to sustainability. The DST Stamp, introduced in July 2023, honours hotels that excel in sustainable practices, aligning with Dubai's environmental ambitions.

Hotels are assessed on '19 Sustainability Requirements', which include energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and staff engagement. The awards feature a three-tier system: gold, silver, and bronze. An exclusive ceremony at Atlantis The Royal on 26 February announced the winners. This initiative supports clean energy goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 2030.

The DST Stamp aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy for carbon neutrality. It aims to drive innovation, reduce emissions, and enhance global sustainability efforts. The initiative complements projects like the Carbon Calculator platform, aiding stakeholders in managing carbon consumption and developing reduction strategies.

In 2024, 18 hotels achieved gold status, including Atlantis The Palm; Atlantis The Royal; Jumeirah Al Qasr; Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf; Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa; and Grosvenor House. Sixty-four hotels earned silver while seventy-one received bronze. These assessments were conducted by third-party independent assessors under the Dubai Government Excellence programme.

Yousuf Lootah from DET stated, "We are proud to celebrate a growing number of hotels being recognised through the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp." He emphasised that this success reflects visionary leadership and strategic commitment to transforming hospitality into a global benchmark for sustainable tourism.

Peter Roth of Jumeirah Al Qasr expressed pride in receiving the Gold DST Stamp. He noted their commitment to responsible hospitality aligns with Dubai’s vision for a greener future under the D33 Agenda. This recognition motivates them to enhance eco-conscious initiatives further.

Impact of Sustainability Efforts

Pam Wilby from Grosvenor House highlighted their excitement about receiving the Gold DST Stamp. She said it validates their commitment to integrating sustainable practices throughout operations while offering luxurious experiences for guests. This award benefits guests, staff, and the planet alike.

The DST Stamp certification lasts one year, stressing ongoing sustainability efforts amid evolving environmental challenges. By prioritising sustainability, these hotels lead green hospitality and set an example for others to follow.

Future Plans for Sustainability

Kelly Timmins from Atlantis Dubai shared enthusiasm over both Atlantis resorts earning Gold DST Stamps. She mentioned their dedication to responsible hospitality through initiatives like the Atlantis Atlas Project launched in 2021. This project focuses on responsible operations and conservation efforts.

DST also supports movements like Dubai Can which reduced single-use plastic bottle usage by over 30 million since February 2022 through Refill for Life initiative. Additionally, it initiated DUBAI REEF—the world’s largest single-purpose-built reef development.

The sustainable tourism strategy follows the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan aiming to double green areas' size and increase public beaches' length by 400%. Under this plan, hotel spaces will grow by more than 100%, ensuring nature reserves cover 60% of Dubai's total area.

With inputs from WAM