ABSTRACT

This chapter dispels the preconceived notion that sustainability is not an option in Dubai. It begins by setting out the global challenges for the real estate profession and through insightful discussions, point to the ever-increasing mountain of evidence that showcases Dubai as an innovator in sustainable real estate practices. It showcases a range of initiatives that have helped Dubai progress extensively in this crucial part of the profession. A range of academic data-informed discussions are provided on the quantitative benefits of sustainable development, yet equally important are the balanced opinions on what needs to be done further. Key metrics are driving more informed decision-making related to this in the market, and the chapter provides two highlighted examples of best practices, Dubai Sustainable City and District 2020 (Expo 2020) as exemplar cases. The chapter concludes by looking to the future and evaluating what might be for ESG in Dubai.