Dubai recognizes 153 hotels with sustainable tourism stamp in 2025

Published on February 27, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

In February 2025, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) awarded the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp to 153 hotels, marking a significant 118% increase from the previous year’s 70 recognized establishments. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, aiming for carbon neutrality through innovation and reduced emissions.

Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp Overview

Launched in July 2023, the DST Stamp acknowledges hotels that excel in sustainable practices, evaluated against 19 Sustainability Requirements encompassing energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and staff engagement.

The certification operates on a three-tier system—gold, silver, and bronze—valid for one year, emphasizing continuous improvement in environmental performance.

2025 Award Highlights

In the 2025 cycle, 18 hotels achieved the gold tier, including prominent establishments such as 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.

Additionally, 64 hotels earned silver, and 71 received bronze. These awards were announced at a ceremony held on February 26 at Atlantis The Royal.

Strategic Alignment with Dubai’s Vision

The DST Stamp initiative supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to position Dubai among the top three global cities for business and leisure over the next decade.

It also complements the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, focusing on doubling green and recreational areas, ensuring nature reserves constitute 60% of the emirate’s total area, and increasing public beach lengths by 400%.

These efforts collectively enhance Dubai’s sustainability and livability.

Leadership Perspectives

Yousuf Lootah, CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance at DET, emphasized the importance of the DST Stamp in transforming Dubai’s hospitality sector into a global benchmark for sustainable tourism.

He highlighted the collaborative efforts of stakeholders and partners in driving significant progress toward the city’s environmental goals.

Representatives from awarded hotels also expressed their commitment to sustainability.

Kelly Timmins, Executive Director of Sustainability & Marine Animal Operations at Atlantis Dubai, noted that the gold DST Stamp reflects their dedication to responsible hospitality through initiatives like the Atlantis Atlas Project.

Peter Roth, Regional Vice President at Madinat Jumeirah, reiterated their alignment with Dubai’s vision for a greener future, inspired by the recognition to enhance eco-conscious initiatives.

Complementary Sustainability Initiatives

The DST Stamp is part of broader efforts, including the Dubai Can initiative, which has significantly reduced single-use plastic through the Refill for Life campaign.

Additionally, projects like DUBAI REEF, the world’s largest purpose-built reef, contribute to marine conservation.

These initiatives align with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’s objectives to enhance sustainability and quality of life in the emirate.