UAE Circular Economy Council holds first meeting of 2025 to discuss implementation of new circular economy policies

Meeting reviews latest innovations and initiatives led by the private sector in the fields of sustainable technology, clean energy, and waste management

The UAE Circular Economy Council held its first meeting of 2025, chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, Chairman of the UAE Circular Economy Council, and Chairman of Investopia. The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), alongside council members from both the public and private sectors and international experts in circular economy disciplines. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the fourth edition of Investopia held in Abu Dhabi under the theme ‘Harnessing MegaForces.’

The meeting discussed various mechanisms to implement new circular economy policies in the UAE across key sectors including sustainable infrastructure, transportation, advanced manufacturing, food, and textile recycling. It focused on enhancing joint efforts to develop more collaborative initiatives between government and private sectors in these vital areas.

H.E. Bin Touq said: "The UAE considers the transition toward a circular economy model as a key driver of sustainable economic and social development. Concerted national efforts to drive new policies and initiatives that enhance resource efficiency, foster innovation, and attract sustainable investments are continuing, supporting the achievement of the ‘We the UAE 2031' vision to position the country as the global hub for the new economy and the world's most prosperous society by the next decade."

H.E. added: "The meeting holds special significance as it was convened under the umbrella of Investopia Communities this year. It witnessed key discussions on the development of circular economy policies and identifying appropriate funding mechanisms for transitioning to circular economy models. The platform provided a valuable opportunity to explore relevant global best practices and leverage them to enhance our own circular economy ecosystem."

H.E. explained that the integration of circular economy into Investopia’s vision and action plans enhances the competitiveness of private sector companies in this vital sector and provides new opportunities for innovation and sustainable project development, further supporting the UAE’s economic growth.

The Minister of Economy continued: "The adoption of circular economy policies maximizes the efficient use of natural and economic resources, transforming challenges into real opportunities that drive economic growth. The private sector plays a key role in accelerating the development of these policies and launching sustainable projects and initiatives that support this shift."

H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of UICCA, said: "The circular economy is a fundamental pillar in shaping a sustainable future and a robust economy rooted in innovation and effective resource redeployment. Strengthening policies that support circular business models would help ensure widespread economic, environmental, and social benefits. The UAE’s dedication to the circular economy is more than an economic strategy, it is a comprehensive vision that strengthens competitiveness, drives innovation, and paves the way for sustainable growth, ultimately leading us toward climate neutrality."

H.H. added: “The launch of the Circular Economy Cycle under the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators’ ‘Launchpad’ program marks a milestone in accelerating innovation and creating practical resolutions to address pressing environmental issues. This program extends beyond supporting entrepreneurs; it enables them to translate their ideas into influential projects that bring about real change, reduce carbon print, and leverage natural assets in smart and sustainable ways. Through offering guidance, collaboration with investors, and fostering avenues for growth, we are committed to accelerating the adoption of circular solutions in crucial sectors like infrastructure, manufacturing, food, and transportation to ensure a comprehensive shift towards a low-carbon economy.”

“The collaboration with the Ministry of Economy reflects our strategic commitment to supporting and empowering startups that focus on sustainable solutions. This fosters a flexible environment that promotes innovation and growth, ensuring a tangible influence on the economy and society. This partnership is not just an agreement; it rather serves as a foundation for establishing the circular economy as a key driver of sustainable growth. It also ensures that economic development aligns with measures needed for the preservation of natural resources. Through this partnership, our goal is to inspire industrial sectors, enhance the role of decision-makers, mobilize collective efforts to embrace responsible practices, encourage innovation, and build a future that balances economic prosperity with environmental sustainability.”

Additionally, the meeting explored the formulation of new policies aimed at addressing financing challenges faced by UAE’s climate technology startups in order to contribute to reducing carbon emissions. The participants discussed the means to bolster the UAE’s attractiveness for sustainable investments with the aim of solidifying its position as a prominent global hub for the circular economy.

Furthermore, the meeting highlighted latest innovations and initiatives led by the private sector in sustainable technology, clean energy, and waste management. It emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships between private sector companies and government entities to achieve the transition across diverse economic sectors.

UAE Circular Economy Council

The Council, chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, comprises senior government officials and representatives from the UAE’s private sector. These include H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy; His Excellency Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of  the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology; H.E. Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; H.H Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators – UICCA; H.E Laila Abdullatif, the Director General of Emirates Nature; Maryam Al Mansoori, the General Manager of Rebound Plastic Exchange; and Sarah Jackson, the Director of the Circular Packaging Association.

The Council is actively working on creating new mechanisms to implement the “UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031” in collaboration with relevant organisations in the country. The Council ensures that progress is achieved by using specific performance indicators to assess the effectiveness of the implementation. Furthermore, it aligns federal and local strategies with policy requirements and suggests general principles for public and sector-related initiatives and plans.

The Council aims to foster private sector’s involvement in projects, initiatives, and programs related to the circular economy in the next stage. It also promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as the advancement of studies and scientific research in relevant fields, to contribute to national goals and promote environmental sustainability.