UAE Government Launches Third Cohort Of Global Councils On Sustainable Development Goals At World Government Summit 2025

The UAE Government has initiated the third cohort of the Global Councils on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the 12th World Government Summit 2025 in Dubai. This event, themed ‘Shaping Future Governments’, took place from February 11th to 13th. The launch was marked by a high-level ministerial roundtable led by Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future.

Ohood Al Roumi highlighted that the UAE is committed to advancing efforts towards achieving the SDGs. The focus is on readiness and practical opportunities to enhance qualitative achievements and empower governments for sustainable development. This initiative reflects the UAE's dedication to accelerating international cooperation for development goals since its inception in 2018 through the World Governments Summit platform.

The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals has introduced a more inclusive model for the Global Councils, involving decision-makers and thought leaders from 17 partner governments worldwide. These partnerships are part of the Government Experience Exchange Programme, covering areas like government research, investment, energy, environment, agriculture, advanced technology, and green economies. The aim is to accelerate SDG implementation and address global issues.

Abdulla Nasser Lootah stated, "Under the directives of the UAE’s leadership, the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals is launching the third cohort of the Global Councils on SDGs through the World Governments Summit platform. This initiative provides a comprehensive system for forecasting the future of sustainable development efforts." He emphasised that this serves as a strategic step to enhance international cooperation and expand knowledge partnerships with partner countries.

From 2025 to 2026, Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi will chair these councils with Abdulla Nasser Lootah as Vice Chair. Each council functions as an independent working group consisting of a Chair, Vice Chair, and members. This structure aims to strengthen productive partnerships at both national and international levels.

Seventeen senior UAE government officials have been appointed as Vice Chairs in these councils. These officials include Directors-General and Undersecretaries who represent UAE’s best practices. They ensure that national perspectives align with diverse community needs globally.

The initiative also aims to foster experience exchange and best practices in sustainability through forums like SDGs in Action at the World Governments Summit. It promotes international collaboration to drive progress towards achieving Agenda 2030 and beyond.

This ongoing work supports efforts for a sustainable future by sharing expertise, fostering partnerships, focusing on implementation and impact while uniting efforts globally. The councils act as a bridge connecting UAE with decision-makers worldwide in sustainability efforts beyond 2030.

With inputs from WAM