Dewa backs Arab Media Summit sustainability

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has been named Strategic Sustainability Partner for the Arab Media Summit 2026, strengthening the event’s environmental agenda as organisers position the gathering as a platform aligned with the UAE’s long-term climate commitments.

Dubai Press Club, which organises the Arab Media Summit, confirmed the partnership ahead of the next edition scheduled to take place in Dubai under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The summit brings together the Arab Media Forum, the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit and the Ibda’a – Arab Youth Media Award under a single umbrella, drawing policymakers, editors, broadcasters, digital creators and technology leaders from across the region.

Officials said DEWA’s role will focus on integrating sustainability benchmarks into the summit’s planning and operations, including energy efficiency, responsible resource use and awareness initiatives linked to climate action. The move reflects a broader policy direction in Dubai to embed environmental standards into major public events and conferences.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive of DEWA, described the partnership as an extension of the authority’s strategy to support national sustainability goals and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to generate 100 per cent of Dubai’s power capacity from clean energy sources by mid-century. He said major gatherings such as the Arab Media Summit provide an opportunity to showcase practical models for low-carbon operations while engaging opinion leaders on environmental responsibility.

Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of Dubai Media Council and President of Dubai Press Club, said the collaboration would help align the summit with the UAE’s climate and sustainability priorities. She noted that the media industry plays a central role in shaping public discourse on environmental challenges and in amplifying stories of innovation and transition.

DEWA has expanded its sustainability footprint over the past decade, notably through the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, one of the world’s largest single-site solar projects. The authority has also invested in smart grids, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and water desalination powered increasingly by clean energy technologies. Its Green Charger initiative has supported the growth of electric mobility across Dubai, while digital transformation programmes have reduced paper use and optimised energy demand.

Organisers indicated that DEWA’s involvement in the 2026 summit will include advisory input on reducing the carbon footprint of event infrastructure, from venue energy management to waste reduction and water conservation measures. Plans are also expected to feature thematic sessions addressing climate communication, environmental reporting standards and the role of digital platforms in promoting sustainable lifestyles.

Arab Media Summit has evolved into one of the region’s largest annual media gatherings since its consolidation into a single umbrella format. The 2025 edition attracted thousands of participants from across the Middle East and North Africa, alongside international media executives and technology firms exploring artificial intelligence, content monetisation and regulatory shifts affecting digital publishing.

Sustainability has grown in prominence within the summit’s agenda, particularly following the UAE’s hosting of COP28 in Dubai. Media executives at previous editions have examined the responsibility of newsrooms in combating misinformation around climate science and in presenting data-driven coverage of energy transition policies. Industry analysts observe that partnerships with entities such as DEWA signal a shift from symbolic environmental pledges towards operational integration.

Dubai has sought to position itself as a hub for both media innovation and green growth. The emirate’s economic strategy places emphasis on knowledge industries, renewable energy investment and smart infrastructure. Authorities have encouraged public and private sector entities to align large-scale events with environmental performance indicators, including energy intensity, emissions tracking and sustainable procurement standards.

Observers note that the collaboration between a utility provider and a media forum reflects the interconnected nature of policy, communication and infrastructure in advancing sustainability objectives. Energy providers are increasingly expected not only to decarbonise supply but also to contribute to public awareness and behavioural change through partnerships and outreach initiatives.