Page 591 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - OCTOBER 2025 (Part 1)

10/28/25, 8:46 AM Expo City Dubai achieves world’s highest sustainable tourism certification
WATCH | Sheikh Nahyan steps into the future at Expo City Dubai

Sustainability at the core

At the centre of Expo City’s sustainability mission is Terra, the city’s flagship sustainability experience and a living showcase of the principles
behind its certification. Terra demonstrates how tourism can drive environmental responsibility through design innovation, education and
engagement. It integrates net-zero construction methods, nature-based solutions and interactive exhibits aimed at inspiring visitors to take
climate action.

Terra is also home to the world’s first International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Centre for Species Survival dedicated to fungi,
as well as the regional office of Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots programme – a youth initiative promoting environmental and humanitarian
awareness.

Expo City’s urban planning also reflects its dedication to sustainability and accessibility. Its master plan, centred around people and the
environment, ensures seamless navigation and connectivity through a network of green and blue spaces. The city has earned WELL
Community pre-certification, becoming the first urban centre in the MENA region to achieve this health and wellbeing standard. In addition, it
holds Platinum pre-certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Cities and Communities framework,
recognising excellence in economic development and environmental conservation.

Tourism for good

The upcoming Sustainable Destinations Forum will further reinforce Expo City’s leading role in advancing the global sustainable tourism
agenda. Set to take place at The Nexus – an ISO 20121:2024-certified venue – the event will gather city and regional leaders, tourism
professionals, developers, investors and consultants from around the world.

Speakers will include Wael Al-Rousan, Deputy Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board; Melih Kayacik of the Tourism Directorate,
Metropolitan City of Izmir; and Dr Chuwit Mitrchob, Deputy Director General at Thailand’s Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism
Administration (DASTA).

Dubai Business Events, the city’s official convention bureau, is also a destination partner at the Forum. The discussions will focus on
sustainable business models in tourism, innovative data applications for sustainability metrics, empowering local leadership, and enhancing
visitor experiences through the Good Travel Alliance.

Tickets for the Sustainable Destinations Forum are now available on the official website, offering participants a chance to engage directly with
global experts shaping the next era of responsible tourism.

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