UAE Opens Groundbreaking SDG Exhibition at United Nations Headquarters

‘Shaping Tomorrow’ spotlights UAE’s sustainable development vision beyond 2030

The United Arab Emirates has unveiled its first-ever national exhibition at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, marking a significant moment during the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025.

Titled "Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future", the exhibition shines a spotlight on the UAE’s commitment to advancing global efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and shaping a more inclusive and resilient future.

Held in the presence of UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, UAE Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, and HE Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Chair of the UAE’s National Committee on SDGs, the event welcomed international officials and government delegates from around the world.

A First-of-its-Kind Showcase for the UAE

Organized by a coalition of key UAE institutions—including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Dubai Chambers, and Noor Dubai Foundation—the exhibition offers visitors an interactive and immersive experience. It features a range of initiatives that highlight the UAE’s efforts in innovation, climate action, and community empowerment.

The exhibition also traces the country’s long-standing engagement with sustainable development, starting with the Rio Summit in 2000, and expands on the global dialogue launched through the UAE’s Government Experience Exchange Programme.

Four Pillars for the Future

The display outlines the UAE’s post-2030 sustainable vision, built on four central pillars:

1. Integrating sustainability into national policies and legislation

2. Using accurate data and indicators to track progress

3. Creating flexible development zones for future innovation

4. Strengthening international cooperation through knowledge exchange

HE Abdulla Lootah emphasized:

“The UAE is deeply invested in sharing its best practices with global partners. This exhibition reflects our belief in collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing as essential drivers of a more sustainable and inclusive future.”

National Programs with Global Impact

The exhibition showcases how UAE-led projects are influencing global development:

• Ministry of Interior: Presented the "Green Justice" initiative, which tackles environmental crimes in Latin America, supporting SDG 17 on partnerships.

• Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD): Highlighted its role in financing projects across more than 100 countries, focusing on education, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

• Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood: Introduced initiatives like the "National Child Empowerment Guide" and "Emirati Children’s Parliament" to advance gender equality and youth engagement (SDG 5).

• Noor Dubai Foundation: Shared its iBSAR program, which combats visual impairment in Asia and Africa, aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

• Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi: Displayed efforts in marine conservation through the "Marine Turtle Protection Program" and use of smart tech for coral reef monitoring (SDG 14).

A Model of Integrated Development

The UAE’s presence at the UN through this exhibition not only reflects its own journey toward sustainable development but also positions it as a global partner in building a better future for all. By combining innovation, policy, and partnerships, the UAE aims to contribute meaningfully to international efforts in the years beyond 2030.