Is Your Hotel Eligible for Gold Certification in Dubai’s Eco-Friendly Program?

Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp: Recognizing Eco-Friendly Hotels

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is making waves in the hospitality industry with its innovative Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp initiative. Launched for the second time, this program aims to identify and reward hotels that are leading the way in sustainable practices.

In a city known for its luxury and opulence, the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp sets a new standard for eco-friendly tourism. With three levels – gold, silver, and bronze – hotels must demonstrate their commitment to DET’s ‘19 Sustainability Requirements’ to be eligible for the stamp. These requirements encompass a wide range of criteria, from energy and water efficiency to waste management and sustainability education for guests and staff.

The application process for the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp opened recently, with hotels having until September 15th to submit their entries. The winners will be announced in January 2025, building anticipation for which hotels will earn this prestigious recognition. In the previous cycle, 278 hotels applied, with 70 ultimately receiving the stamp – 11 at gold level, 28 at silver, and 31 at bronze. It is heartening to see so many hotels embracing eco-friendly practices.

Yousuf Lootah, who spearheads DET’s Environmental Sustainability & Social Responsibility Committee, emphasized the significance of the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp in advancing the city’s sustainability goals. More than just a badge of honor, the stamp showcases Dubai’s dedication to becoming a greener, more sustainable place for residents and visitors alike.

Leading the way in sustainability, hotels like Rove Expo City and Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk have demonstrated the value of the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp. Rove Hotels used the application process as an opportunity to enhance their operations and explore new avenues for sustainable practices, while Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk proudly touted their Gold Tier award as a testament to their unwavering commitment to sustainable luxury.

This initiative aligns with broader global initiatives such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy. Furthermore, it complements the Dubai Can movement, which aims to reduce single-use plastics and supports ambitious marine projects like Dubai Reef.

By participating in the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp, hotels are not only positioning themselves as leaders in eco-friendly hospitality but also contributing to a larger movement towards sustainability in the tourism industry. As Dubai continues to strive towards a greener future, initiatives like this play a crucial role in shaping the city’s identity as a top global destination for sustainable tourism.