The UAE has reiterated its commitment to sustainable development at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025 in New York.
The forum, hosted by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, brought together global leaders and organizations to discuss progress on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During the event, the UAE emphasized its focus on international partnerships and human progress as key components of its vision for the SDGs and future global development.
The UAE delegation to HLPF, led by senior officials from ministries and organizations such as the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, and the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), showcased the country’s pioneering role in driving global development.
The HLPF delegation also included representatives from the Noor Dubai Foundation, Dubai Chambers, and other key entities involved in advancing the UAE’s sustainable development agenda.
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, highlighted the UAE’s innovative and collaborative approach to international development cooperation.
The minister confirmed at HLPF on the commencement of intensive preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR), to monitor and assess progress toward the 2030 SDGs.
His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah UAE Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs- Competitiveness and Experience Exchange
“We presented models and initiatives that showcase pioneering national development initiatives and reflect the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating SDG achievement. These included the 2045 XDGs Report that envisions development prospects for the next two decades, and GEEP. We held meetings that focused on continually enhancing multilateral collaborative action to support finding innovative solutions to challenges in health, economic growth, the future of work, biodiversity, and international stability.”
The comments at HLPF reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, comprehensive analysis of challenges and opportunities, and identifying future development priorities with participation from government, private sector, and civil society to ensure effort integration and vision unification, based on the UAE’s ambitious vision for building a sustainable and inclusive future based on innovation, sustainability, and human development.
The UAE HLPF delegation showcased its leadership through high-profile events, including the ‘Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future’ exhibition, which featured innovative development models and facilitated dialogue with global partners.
A special session by GEEP extended the UAE’s partnership network to nearly 50 countries and six international organizations, reinforcing its role as a leader in global cooperation. The delegation also launched the 2045 XDGs Report, which outlines global development priorities beyond 2030 and provides forward-looking recommendations to address emerging challenges.
In partnership with the UAE Consulate General in New York, the UAE highlighted its leadership in advancing the SDGs through innovation and collaboration. Key sessions organized by the General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs focused on gender balance, child welfare, and closing the digital gender gap.
Image Via: United Nations
The UAE also led discussions on reimagining economic growth for people and the planet and integrating social and economic objectives for global stability. A roundtable discussion centered on economic diplomacy underscored the importance of aligning economic and social objectives to ensure long-term sustainability.
The Ministry of Interior presented successful cross-border environmental initiatives, such as the Green Shield Operation, which aims to protect biodiversity in the Amazon Basin. Throughout the forum, the UAE reinforced its commitment to international cooperation by holding 48 bilateral meetings and participating in Science Day activities.
As the UN’s primary platform for SDG review, the HLPF is an essential event for advancing global sustainability efforts. The UAE’s active participation at the forum highlights its commitment to shaping the future of global development through innovation, strategic partnerships, and transparency.
With preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Review underway, the UAE is poised to continue its leadership in driving sustainable development initiatives worldwide. The UAE’s leadership in hosting the upcoming UN Water Conference also reflects its ongoing commitment to ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future for all.
