NextGen FDI Partners With Climate First To Enhance UAE's Climate Tech Ecosystem

The UAE Ministry of Economy's NextGen FDI initiative has joined forces with Climate First, a prominent European private equity firm focused on climate innovation investments. This collaboration aims to enhance the UAE's climate-tech ecosystem. The partnership was solidified during the inaugural Climate First UAE Roadshow, held in conjunction with Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025.

During ADSW, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, highlighted the significance of climate technology in promoting sustainable development. He remarked, "This partnership reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. Through the NextGen FDI initiative, we are creating a supportive ecosystem for advanced technology companies to thrive and lead global efforts in combatting climate change. By associating Climate First with the NextGen FDI initiative, we are fostering transformative collaborations that will help shape the future of clean energy and industrial decarbonisation."

The Roadshow introduced five leading climate tech firms—Climeworks, Energy Dome, ZeroAviva, Cylib, and Glasspoint—to Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. These companies explored opportunities to form strategic partnerships with key UAE stakeholders committed to significant decarbonisation efforts within the Emirates.

These companies are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge solutions across various industries. Their innovations range from direct air capture and battery recycling to hydrogen-electric aviation and solar steam generators for industrial processes.

Nadav Steinmetz from Climate First expressed enthusiasm about partnering with the UAE Ministry of Economy and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi during ADSW. He stated, "We are honoured to partner with the UAE Ministry of Economy and Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The UAE’s commitment to innovation creates an unmatched ecosystem for advancing climate tech. At Climate First, our mission has always been to drive impactful change through investments in transformative, zero-carbon technologies. We are thrilled to bring pioneering European solutions to the UAE. This collaboration will foster strategic partnerships to scale decarbonisation efforts."

NextGen FDI Initiative: A Catalyst for Innovation

The NextGen FDI initiative was launched in 2022 as part of the UAE's strategy to diversify its economy and establish itself as a global innovation hub. So far, it has attracted over 20 companies in sectors like AI, renewable energy, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.

This programme is pivotal in accelerating the UAE's shift towards a knowledge-based and sustainable economy by supporting businesses operating in forward-looking industries.

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week: A Global Platform

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week serves as a worldwide platform dedicated to advancing clean energy and sustainable development under its theme "The Nexus of Next. Supercharging Sustainable Progress." It brings together global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to address pressing environmental challenges.

The collaboration between NextGen FDI and Climate First aligns perfectly with ADSW’s mission to encourage cooperation and deliver practical solutions for a more sustainable future.

Climate First has invested in over 50 climate tech leaders globally and views the UAE as an ideal partner for scaling its companies’ impact. The firm aims to commercialise opportunities while expanding their presence across the region.

With inputs from WAM