Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism recognises 153 hotels with Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has awarded 153 hotels with the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp in the initiative's second cycle. This marks a 118% increase from the 70 hotels recognised in last year's inaugural edition, reflecting the commitment of the hospitality sector in Dubai to prioritising sustainability, and reinforcing the city's growing reputation as a sustainable destination.
The DST Stamp, which was launched in July 2023, recognises hotels that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to sustainable practices, aligning with Dubai's ambitious environmental goals and vision for a green future. Hotels are evaluated against a comprehensive set of '19 Sustainability Requirements', covering areas such as energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and staff engagement. The awards, which feature a three-tier recognition system in gold, silver and bronze categories, were officially announced at an exclusive ceremony held on 26 February at Atlantis The Royal.
Contributing to broader clean energy targets and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 2030, the DST Stamp initiative is also in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global city for business and leisure. As part of the wider DST programme, the recognition is designed to elevate the environmental performance of the hospitality sector.
Rated for their performance in 2024, 18 hotels achieved the gold tier – including Atlantis, The Palm; Atlantis The Royal; Jumeirah Al Qasr; Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf; Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa; and Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai – while 64 earned silver and 71 received bronze. These hotels underwent rigorous assessments by third-party independent assessors as part of the Dubai Government Excellence programme, ensuring that their sustainability initiatives meet the highest standards set by the DET's '19 Sustainability Requirements'.
Yousuf Lootah, CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and Chairperson of DET Environmental Sustainability and Social Responsibility Committee, said: 'We are proud to celebrate a growing number of hotels being recognised through the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp. 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. The support of our stakeholders and partners plays a pivotal role in driving this change, enabling us to make significant strides toward our sustainability goals. While congratulating all the winners, we extend our appreciation to all other nominees and value their dedication to sustainability. This is an important step forward in aligning with Dubai's broader environmental goals and the D33 Agenda, which aims to establish Dubai as the best city to visit, live and work in. Together, we are building a greener, more resilient Dubai, ensuring it continues to be a vibrant, livable, and attractive destination for future generations.'
Kelly Timmins, Executive Director, Sustainability & Marine Animal Operations, Atlantis Dubai, said: 'We are delighted that both Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal have been awarded the Gold DST Stamp, a recognition of our commitment to responsible and sustainable hospitality. Sustainability is at the core of our operations, and through the Atlantis Atlas Project, which launched in 2021, we strive to do business in ways that benefit both people and the planet. Built on four core pillars — Responsible Operations, Education & Awareness, Conservation & Animal Welfare, and People & Culture — the Atlantis Atlas Project empowers both our colleagues and guests to engage in meaningful sustainability efforts, fostering awareness and inspiring responsible choices. The 19 Sustainability Requirements set by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) provide a strong framework for continuously enhancing our environmental practices. Achieving Gold DST Stamps for both resorts marks a significant milestone and motivates us to continue driving progress. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to advancing our sustainability agenda and accelerating efforts to support the vision of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), placing at the forefront sustainable economic growth together with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy.'
Peter Roth, Regional Vice President Madinat Jumeirah and General Manager Jumeirah Al Qasr, said: 'At Jumeirah Al Qasr and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, sustainability is at the core of our operations, and we are proud to receive the Gold DST Stamp from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This recognition reflects our commitment to responsible hospitality and supports Dubai's positioning at the forefront of global efforts in sustainable tourism. By aligning with the '19 Sustainability Requirements', we share and support Dubai's vision for a greener future, in line with the D33 Agenda. This recognition inspires us to further enhance our eco-conscious initiatives, and we remain dedicated to playing our part in transforming the city into the best place to visit, live, and work in.'
Pam Wilby, Multi-property General Manager of the Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai, and Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, said: 'We are thrilled to receive the Gold DST Stamp. We strive to offer our guests luxurious and memorable stays, and increasingly, that means offering sustainable experiences. The award validates our commitment to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of our operations, from minimising our environmental impact to supporting our local community. It's a win for our guests, our team, and our planet.'
The DST Stamp certification is valid for one year, emphasising the importance of ongoing sustainability efforts and adapting to evolving environmental challenges. By prioritising sustainability, these hotels are not only leading the way in green hospitality, but also setting an example for others to follow. Hotels that did not receive the DST Stamp this year are encouraged to continue their sustainability efforts and position themselves for future recognition under the initiative.
The DST Stamp is aligned with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy of achieving carbon neutrality, and the associated objectives to drive innovation, reduce carbon emissions, and elevate the destination's role in global sustainability efforts. The initiative complements other key DST projects like the Carbon Calculator platform, which helps hospitality sector stakeholders and partners manage carbon consumption, develop carbon reduction strategies, identify cost saving opportunities, and shape transitions to sustainable operations.
Additionally, DST supports sustainability movements such as Dubai Can, which has reduced the usage of more than 30 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles since February 2022 through the Refill for Life initiative, and initiated the world's largest single purpose-built reef development through DUBAI REEF. The sustainable tourism strategy is also guided by the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan which aims to double the size of green and recreational areas, ensure that nature reserves and rural natural areas constitute 60% of the emirate's total area, and increase the total length of public beaches by 400%. Under the 2040 plan, the total space dedicated to hotels and tourist activities will increase by more than 100%.
For more information about the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp, please visit: https://www.dubaidet.gov.ae/en/about-det/initiatives/dubai-sustainable-tourism/dubai-sustainable-tourism-stamp
Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hi Dubai
29-05-2025
- Hi Dubai
How to Legally Expand Your Business in Dubai Without Changing Your License
Dubai's economy is on an impressive upward track, growing by 3.1% in the first nine months of 2024 and reaching AED 339.4 billion, according to Digital Dubai. What's driving this momentum? Key sectors like wholesale and retail trade have grown by 2.9%, transportation and storage by 5.3%, and financial and insurance activities by 4.5%. As these industries expand, so does Dubai's potential as a global business hub. But what's the bigger vision? The emirate's ambitions are clearly outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the economy by 2033. This is supported by major reforms, most notably the decision to allow 100% foreign ownership of onshore companies since June 1, 2021. These changes are not just policy shifts, they're open invitations for global businesses to grow in Dubai. But with such an opportunity comes the need for caution. Are you operating with the right licenses? Failing to comply with licensing regulations can be costly, with penalties reaching up to AED 50,000—or worse, complete business closure. So how can businesses expand in Dubai without changing their core license or running into compliance issues? In this article, we explore legal ways to grow your business in Dubai without altering your original license structure, helping you scale safely and strategically . Understanding Your Existing License with DET The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly DED, is the primary authority for business registration and licensing in Mainland Dubai. DET oversees corporate strategy, business registration, and compliance. Key License Types: Commercial License: For buying, selling, importing/exporting. For buying, selling, importing/exporting. Professional License: For services like accounting, legal, and marketing. For services like accounting, legal, and marketing. Industrial License: For manufacturing, processing, and assembling. Benefits of a DET License: Enhanced Credibility: Official government endorsement builds trust. Official government endorsement builds trust. Market Access: Direct access to Dubai's market, including government tenders. Direct access to Dubai's market, including government tenders. Flexible Visa Policies: Typically one visa per 100 square feet of office space. Typically one visa per of office space. 100% Foreign Ownership: Permitted in most mainland industries. Permitted in most mainland industries. No Minimum Capital: Generally, no minimum capital is required for DED-licensed mainland companies. Generally, no minimum capital is required for DED-licensed mainland companies. Tax Advantages: While historically offering significant benefits, corporate tax was introduced in June 2023, applying a 9% rate on net profits exceeding AED 375,000. Diversifying Activities Under Your Existing Mainland License The UAE government allows businesses to add new activities to an existing trade license, provided all legal requirements are met. Engaging in unlisted activities can result in fines from AED 5,000 to AED 50,000. Process Highlights: Initial Approval: Obtain approval from DET for proposed new activities. Application Submission: Submit the BR1 form for license amendment. NOCs & Legalities: Secure No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from relevant authorities if needed, and complete legal formalities (e.g., LLC agreement addendum). Final Steps: Submit all documents, pay fees (around AED 3,000 for mainland, AED 2,000 for free zones), and receive your updated license. Benefits: Unlocking new revenue streams, staying competitive, enhancing credibility, and optimizing existing resources. Free Zone to Mainland Expansion Under New Regulations Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, issued on March 3, 2025, allows Dubai free zone businesses to operate directly in the mainland. This is a core part of Dubai's D33 economic agenda. Pathways for Free Zone Entities: Onshore Dubai Branch (physical presence required): Valid for one year, renewable. Onshore Dubai Branch (HQ in free zone, no physical presence): Valid for one year, renewable, with an annual fee of AED 10,000. Temporary Permits for Specific Activities: Valid for up to six months, with a fee of AED 5,000 annually. The DET, in coordination with licensing authorities, is expected to issue a comprehensive list of permissible activities by September 20, 2025.A significant benefit is the ability to use the existing free zone-registered workforce for mainland operations, leading to cost savings. Leveraging Digital Expansion with E-commerce and Virtual Licenses Dubai's e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 8 billion by 2025. An e-commerce license is essential for legal online operations. Adding E-commerce Activities: Businesses with existing mainland commercial licenses can add e-commerce activities following the standard amendment process. Types of E-commerce Licenses: E-Trader License: For UAE/GCC nationals, home-based businesses, social media sales (no physical shop/visa). For UAE/GCC nationals, home-based businesses, social media sales (no physical shop/visa). Portal License: For online platforms connecting buyers and sellers. For online platforms connecting buyers and sellers. Virtual Company License: For non-resident entrepreneurs, allowing remote operation without a physical office is considered cost-effective. Cost: A Dubai e-commerce license in 2025 typically ranges from AED 5,750 to AED 15,000, depending on jurisdiction, office needs, and visa allocations. Establishing a Branch or Representative Office (An Extension, Not a Change) Foreign companies can establish a direct presence in Dubai through branch or representative offices without altering their parent company's license. Branch Office: Functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, authorized to conduct commercial activities. Requires a physical office and a Local Service Agent (LSA). The Ministry of Economy (MOE) mandates a capital deposit of AED 50,000 . Functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, authorized to conduct commercial activities. Requires a physical office and a Local Service Agent (LSA). The Ministry of Economy (MOE) mandates a capital deposit of . Representative Office: Established solely for promotional activities, not direct sales. Requires a UAE national as a local agent. No minimum share capital is required, but a refundable MOE deposit of AED 50,000 is typically required. Franchising: A Double-Edged Sword for Business Expansion The MENA franchising industry is growing, with Dubai's market projected to reach USD 44 billion by 2026, expanding by 12% annually. The current market size exceeds AED 30 billion annually, with growth rates averaging 12-15% year over year. Franchise businesses often achieve 25-30% higher success rates and 40% faster profitability compared to independent startups. Why Franchising Can Be a Risky Bet: Unsuitability: A business may not be viable for replication if its core elements aren't distinctive or strong enough to attract franchisees. A business may not be viable for replication if its core elements aren't distinctive or strong enough to attract franchisees. Lack of IP Protection: Unregistered trademarks can hinder franchising. Unregistered trademarks can hinder franchising. Complex Operations: If the business system is too complicated or difficult to reproduce consistently, it's not suitable. If the business system is too complicated or difficult to reproduce consistently, it's not suitable. Unprofitable Model: Franchises are often less profitable than the original business due to startup costs like franchise fees and supplies. Franchises are often less profitable than the original business due to startup costs like franchise fees and supplies. Weak Brand Recognition: A lack of strong brand recognition makes it harder to attract franchisees and customers. Common Pitfalls for Franchisees: Inadequate Market Research: Not understanding local demand, competition, or ideal location. Not understanding local demand, competition, or ideal location. Underestimating Costs: Beyond initial fees, ongoing expenses like royalty fees (typically 5-8% of gross revenue) and marketing contributions (another 2-3% ) can be substantial. Beyond initial fees, ongoing expenses like royalty fees (typically of gross revenue) and marketing contributions (another ) can be substantial. Wrong Franchise Model: Selecting a concept that lacks local demand or fails to adapt to cultural preferences. Selecting a concept that lacks local demand or fails to adapt to cultural preferences. Neglecting Training & Support: Insufficient training and ongoing support from the franchisor can lead to operational inefficiencies. Insufficient training and ongoing support from the franchisor can lead to operational inefficiencies. Franchisor Instability: Financial difficulties of the franchisor can severely impact franchisees. Financial difficulties of the franchisor can severely impact franchisees. Market Saturation: Over-saturation or unclear territorial rights can lead to internal competition. The legal framework for franchising in the UAE is governed by the Commercial Agencies Law (Federal Law No. 18 of 1981), the Commercial Companies Law, and contract law. Commercial agents (franchisees) must register with the Ministry of Economy. Franchisors are legally obligated to provide a comprehensive disclosure document to potential franchisees. Dubai's dynamic regulatory environment supports business expansion without requiring a complete license change. Strategies include diversifying activities under existing mainland licenses, leveraging the new free zone to a mainland expansion framework (Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025), embracing digital growth via e-commerce and virtual licenses, and establishing branch or representative offices. While franchising offers growth potential, it demands careful viability assessment and adherence to legal obligations. Each pathway offers distinct advantages, requiring meticulous planning and compliance for sustained success in this global business hub. (Main Sources: Also read: Can Foreigners Really Own 100% of a Business in the UAE? Here's the Truth Explore the evolution of foreign ownership restrictions in the UAE, from their historical roots to the groundbreaking 2020 reforms and the sectors that still require local ownership. Small Business Licence Cost In Dubai We'll explore the cost of a small business licence in Dubai, and guide you through the steps required to launch your business successfully. 6 Simple Steps To Set Up A Business In A UAE Free Zone Establishing a business in a UAE Free Zone is straightforward and can be completed in six simple steps, as outlined by the Ministry of Economy. The Benefits of Dubai's Free Zones for Entrepreneurs This article explores the many advantages that Dubai's free zones offer, making them an attractive proposition for entrepreneurs worldwide.
Arabian Business
26-05-2025
- Arabian Business
Price of youth: Dubai's AEON Clinic leads push for biological age reversal with DNA targeted treatments
Biological age reversal, once relegated to the realm of science fiction, is fast becoming a clinical reality. Dubai's AEON Clinic offers several highly advanced treatments to clientele looking to achieve longevity, propelled by the vision of Founder and CEO Dr. Jaffer Khan. A veteran reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon in the UAE, Khan is placing a bold bet on the future of healthcare: reversing biological age through precision and regenerative medicine. From his clinic at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, Khan is leading AEON Clinic, a high-end medical facility focused on extending healthspan rather than simply treating illness. The clinic targets a wealthy, globally mobile clientele with the promise of data-driven, preventive care that leverages cutting-edge science – from stem cell therapies to genomic sequencing. 'We're reversing biological age by looking at parameters such as DNA methylation,' said Khan in an exclusive interview with Arabian Business. 'There's an objective parameter that is changing. Your age is moving backwards biologically, not chronologically.' Although the price point remains high today, Khan is confident that as the technology scales and becomes more widely adopted, age-reversal treatments will move beyond the domain of the wealthy and become accessible to a broader population. Khan stresses that the approach at AEON Clinic is grounded in rigorous science rather than hype. 'We're not promising anything, you know. I mean, people come and they spend whatever $50,000 on a stem cell treatment, they are doing it knowing that we're not saying that this is going to be a game changer, a life changer for you.' The clinic provides patients with detailed diagnostics and clear benchmarks: 'Here is the science. Here is your current parameter. This is where we believe we can take you, and the rest is your journey,' he said. Data protection remains a pivotal challenge as healthcare moves deeper into personalised medicine. Khan believes that there can be excessive caution at times. 'I don't care if somebody knows my blood type. How is it going to change my life?' However, he calls for balanced regulation, 'HIPAA compliance has to happen. Okay? It has to be HIPAA compliant. You have to protect that data.' The ethical landscape surrounding regenerative medicine is complex, particularly concerning stem cell therapies. Khan pointed out the significant issues tied to embryonic stem cells. 'From an ethical perspective, regenerative medicine is right up there from stem cell technology, embryonic like, for example, one type of stem cells embryonic, but you have to kill the embryo to get it. So there's a huge ethical issue with that.' Yet the promise of such science is enormous. Breakthroughs in genetic engineering offer tantalising glimpses of the future. Khan highlighted experiments in animals demonstrating profound regenerative effects. 'Already in mice experiments, they are reversing age, growing their hair back. Blind mice are seeing again… You know all of these, what we call gene splicing, or gene transcription. It's there.' Technologies like CRISPR, which allow for precise editing of genetic sequences, have opened new frontiers. 'Since 2012 we can remove a bad segment of genomics and add a segment in what it costs for something like cystic fibrosis, maybe $2 million at the moment, but it won't be in 10 years' time,' Khan said. The dramatic drop in the cost of genome sequencing exemplifies how quickly the field is evolving. 'You know, it costs a billion dollars to decide for 3 billion to decipher the whole human genome. We do that now for $1,000 you know, as a test.' With technology advancing rapidly, treatments now available only to a wealthy few are expected to become broadly accessible. 'Although these treatments currently come with a considerably high price tag, Khan believes that in a few years when these technologies become more accessible and widespread – the service will not only be for the wealthy.' A critical part of AEON Clinic's philosophy is the long-term relationship it builds with patients. 'We're not just another retreat or one-off center. This is an ongoing clinical relationship based on diagnostics, biomarkers, and long-term planning,' Khan explained. Despite the promise of regenerative and precision medicine, Khan is clear-eyed about the importance of managing expectations. 'From an ethical point of view, we need to make sure that we introduce things without over delivering too many promises.' The clinic's approach is rooted in prudence: 'We should under promise and over deliver, rather than the other way around.' As longevity science advances, AEON Clinic is positioning itself to be a regional leader in a field that may redefine the future of healthcare. But Khan cautioned that the journey is just beginning and the technology still has to mature: 'This technology will be more and more available.' For now, patients willing to invest significant sums are embarking on what Khan calls a personal journey – one supported by cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments. 'We're reversing biological age… but what are the promises? We're not promising anything… This is where we believe we can take you, and the rest is your journey,' he concluded.
Gulf Today
21-05-2025
- Gulf Today
National industrial sector core pillar of UAE economy: Hamdan
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, visited the fourth edition of 'Make it in The Emirates 2025' Forum, taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, from May 19th to 22. The Forum highlights the UAE's advanced industrial capabilities and innovations, and its emergence as a global manufacturing hub, bringing together industry leaders, government entities, and innovators. On the occasion, Sheikh Hamdan said that the national industrial sector is a fundamental pillar of the UAE economy and a key driver advancing its vision for greater diversification and innovation. He noted that the 'Make it in The Emirates 2025' Forum reflects the UAE's commitment to building a competitive, technology-driven industrial base led by skilled national talent. Sheikh Hamdan added that guided by the visionary leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE is pursuing ambitious goals to increase the industrial sector's share of GDP, enhance exports, and draw high-quality investments. He emphasised that the industrial sector is more than just an economic segment; it is fundamental to national sovereignty and the growth of human and technological capacities. Sheikh Hamdan said that this Forum affirms the UAE's readiness to lead industrially at both regional and global levels, backed by a clear vision, robust infrastructure, and extensive expertise, with public-private partnerships underpinning its industrial future. Sheikh Hamdan was accompanied by Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications; Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director-General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); Faisal Abdulaziz Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EDGE Group. Sheikh Hamdan toured the exhibition held on the sidelines of the Forum, and was briefed on the crucial role of national industries in shaping the future of the UAE's industrial sector. During the tour, he also explored the latest smart solutions and technologies from Emirati companies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, energy, manufacturing, and real estate development. Sheikh Hamdan visited a number of stands and pavilions including the Dubai pavilion managed by DET, which showcases the city's dynamic manufacturing sector. The Dubai pavilion serves as a central platform that brings together the emirate's key enablers of industrial growth, including Dubai Industrial City (DIC), National Industries Park (NIP), Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), Dubai Chambers, and Dubai South. Sheikh Hamdan also stopped by the pavilions of the EDGE Group, International Holding Company, Micropolis Digital Development, Emaar Properties, Ducab, and the Advanced Technology Research Council's AI Centre. Make It In The Emirates 2025 is the UAE's flagship industrial event, designed to accelerate the country's manufacturing ambitions and position it as a global hub for industrial innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. Meanwhile, Sheikh Khalid Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, underscored the strategic importance of Make it in the Emirates 2025, describing it as a key platform for supporting and developing 12 of the UAE's most vital industrial sectors. During his visit to the event, Sheikh Khalid stated that this leading industrial platform is instrumental in strengthening the UAE's position as a global destination for investment and capital, helping to bolster the competitiveness of Emirati industries both locally and internationally. He highlighted the pivotal support of the UAE's leadership in advancing national industries, which have become a fundamental pillar of the country's rapid economic growth. Sheikh Khalid Bin Zayed said, 'Investing in the development of local industries is a primary enabler of the UAE's global economic standing - an economy that continues to flourish thanks to the dedication of its people and a visionary outlook that places human development at its core. 'This platform is a valuable opportunity to deepen public-private partnerships and foster innovation in building a sustainable industrial ecosystem that contributes to diversifying our national economy.' He also emphasised the role of Make it in the Emirates 2025 in attracting and empowering young Emirati talent by offering employment opportunities in emerging industrial sectors, supported by dynamic platforms that encourage creativity and excellence. Sheikh Khalid said, 'We are committed to harnessing the energy of Emirati youth and equipping them with the skills to lead future industries, in line with the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based, sustainable economy built on national capabilities.' He praised the instrumental role played by ADNEC Group in organising Make it in the Emirates 2025, commending the group's outstanding organisational and technical capabilities.' WAM
