AGP Executive Report

Organic farming spotlight: Sharjah’s “Fields of Tomorrow” documentary follows the emirate’s organic food push, from desert-grown wheat and greenhouses to rare A2A2 milk cattle traced to Denmark. Heritage meets sustainability: Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s Khorfakkan branch runs “Craft: A Living Memory” at the Traditional Crafts Museum in Souq Sharq, with hands-on workshops for Emirati crafts and children. Health in the outdoors: Abu Dhabi experts say regular “green exercise” in parks and shaded tracks boosts physical and mental wellbeing, calling green spaces a preventive healthcare investment. Mobility that cuts emissions: Dubai RTA expands its e-bike delivery service to seven new areas (including JLT and Dubai Marina), aligning with sustainability and first/last-mile plans. Food & farming economy: The 10th Al Dhaid Date Festival drew 35,000+ visitors and topped Dhs2.5 million in sales, highlighting date-palm productivity and sustainability tech. UNESCO nature win: Wadi Wurayah in Fujairah is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, adding another UAE natural landmark. Road safety training: UNITAR and FIA launch the MENA “Safe Mobility for All & for Life” programme in Cairo, bringing evidence-based road safety training to UAE and regional authorities. UAE climate-health warning: A global report says extreme heat could drive hundreds of thousands more deaths by 2050, with many affected regions lacking power for cooling. Cyber pressure: UAE organisations averaged 2,197 cyber attacks per week in H1 2026, underscoring ongoing digital risk.

UAE Conservation Milestone: Wadi Wurayah in Fujairah has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking a major win for the UAE’s natural heritage protection. Animal Welfare in Dubai: Dubai Municipality has opened an integrated pet shelter in Warsan with a digital adoption platform, veterinary care and adoption rooms to help residents choose rescued cats and dogs before visiting. Climate & Health Warning: A new column links deadly heat waves to fossil fuels, urging a faster shift to cleaner energy as extreme temperatures worsen. Energy Infrastructure & Safety: Samsung C&T says it hit 30 million work hours on Abu Dhabi’s HVDC project without a lost-time injury, highlighting strong HSE management across onshore and offshore sites. Tourism Talent & Emiratisation: DCT Abu Dhabi completed its UAE Bootcamp Career Builder Recognition Programme, graduating 21 Emirati hospitality professionals to strengthen the local talent pipeline. Water & Nature Tech: DMCC and Hong Kong Tinkam Capital signed an MoU to explore a Dubai power and energy equipment manufacturing park, including green technology.

Wildfire Solidarity: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced solidarity with France after devastating wildfires forced massive evacuations, pledging support and wishing safety for those affected. Climate Pressure: A new report warns global heating could worsen wildfire conditions, linking hotter, drier weather to more destructive fire seasons across regions including Europe. Mangrove Monitoring: Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency launched a digital observatory to track mangrove rehabilitation, combining field surveys, satellite data and partner inputs across 1,775 hectares to measure ecosystem recovery, not just tree counts. UAE Food Security Push: Dubai’s Al Dhaid Date Festival and related “Dubai Dates” support highlight palm and date heritage, while a separate “National Food Factory” project targets end-to-end processing and logistics to boost locally produced agri-food value. Nature Conservation Milestone: SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi welcomed Kaya, a Pacific walrus calf born in the region, marking a conservation and veterinary-care milestone for local wildlife care. UAE Competitiveness: GCC-Stat says UAE topped global rankings in trade and economic performance in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2026, reflecting policy momentum alongside sustainability goals.

UNESCO Nature Win for the UAE: Fujairah’s Wadi Wurayah has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, adding a major natural landmark to the UAE’s global conservation record and highlighting the reserve’s environmental and geological importance. Mangrove Restoration, Now Measured in Real Time: Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency launched the ADMI Mangrove Observatory, a digital platform that brings together data from 19 restoration projects across 1,775 hectares, tracking millions of planted mangroves and restoration success to guide smarter, science-based recovery. Local Climate Tech in Motion: The Environment Agency also rolled out a digital observatory approach to strengthen mangrove rehabilitation monitoring—moving beyond “trees planted” to ecosystem outcomes. GCC Sustainability Governance: A UAE endowments team joined a GCC meeting on waqf investment and development, sharing how endowment assets can be managed for long-term sustainability.

UNESCO Nature Win for UAE: Wadi Wurayah in Fujairah has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking the UAE’s first UNESCO natural heritage site and spotlighting the reserve’s biodiversity and geological value. Mangrove Restoration Boost: Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency launched a digital observatory to track mangrove rehabilitation across 1,775 hectares, using field surveys and satellite data to measure tree growth and ecosystem recovery. Public Health via Cleaner Water Testing: Dubai Municipality rolled out an AI-powered system to speed up household water quality checks, including faster detection of Legionella and E. coli across tanks, taps, pools and non-bottled drinking water. Strait of Hormuz Biosecurity Risk: Scientists warn that stalled ships near the Strait of Hormuz could become “super-spreaders” for invasive species as biofouling builds on idle vessels. UAE-Canada CEPA (Trade with a Green Angle): The UAE and Canada concluded CEPA talks in record time, with clean energy, data centres, agri-food and critical minerals flagged as key cooperation areas. Local Climate-Resilient Nature: Fujairah also continues to expand conservation momentum as the UNESCO listing draws global attention to its natural heritage.

UAE-Canada Trade: UAE and Canada have wrapped CEPA negotiations in record time, paving the way for faster market access and tariff cuts across sectors like aerospace, agri-food and seafood. Food & Climate Diplomacy: A new focus on “farm to fork” action highlights how food loss and waste drive emissions and threaten food security—an issue that’s increasingly central to climate talks. UAE Water & Maritime Safety: Abu Dhabi has activated a Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre to strengthen maritime safety, while Dubai is using AI to speed up household water-quality testing. Desert Heritage in Focus: Sharjah’s SIH marked “Jamrat Al Qayth” with heritage sessions and community activities tied to the hottest, driest 40-day period. Regional Security Watch: With tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea shipping, Gulf states face rising risks to energy flows and the wider environment. UAE Innovation Ecosystem: Khalifa Fund and Hub71 launched the first MZN Hub71 Demo Day, backing Emirati startups to support long-term diversification.

UAE–Environment & Aviation Cooperation: Dubai’s Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA) signed an MoU to boost sustainability, safety and environmental protection across the emirate’s aviation ecosystem. Heritage & Food Security: Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority launched the inaugural Al Ain Rutab Festival (25–31 July) and wrapped up the 22nd Liwa Dates Festival, both spotlighting date farming, farmer support, and agricultural sustainability. Maritime Safety in a Tense Region: An LPG tanker with 28 Indian crew was attacked in Iranian waters, with all crew reported safe—another reminder of shipping risks around the region. Wildlife & Invasive Species Risk: Reports say 1,500 ships trapped in the Gulf of Hormuz are becoming breeding grounds for invasive species, raising ecological concerns for the Gulf. Heat & Health: UAE health authorities urged residents to watch for heat exhaustion as summer temperatures climb. Humanitarian Response: The UAE launched urgent relief for victims of Ghana’s June floods, delivering food and emergency shelter materials.

Environmental Radiation Monitoring: FANR launched the UAE’s first National Environmental Radiation Measurements Portal, giving users one place for real-time and historical radiation data, lab analysis and trend reports to support regulation, emergency readiness and research. Digital Government (AI): Ajman renewed trade licences using agentic AI in a UAE first, with a headless, automated flow that guides customers through renewals in the AjmanOne app and coordinates approvals across departments. Public Health (MS Care): PureHealth partnered with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to boost awareness, earlier diagnosis and coordinated MS care across the UAE. Mobility & Air Quality Angle: Dubai Taxi Company reported weaker Q2/H1 results amid softer airport and tourism demand, while trip volumes showed early June recovery—useful context for transport planning. Energy Transition Tech: Market reports highlight growth in direct methanol fuel cells, battery storage and solid oxide fuel cells—signals of continued momentum in cleaner power options. Real Estate Pressure: MERED says Dubai’s off-plan segment drove 71% of H1 transactions, with a large delivery pipeline shaping future housing supply.

Maritime Safety & Environment: The Houthis announced attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, with reports saying the Saudi-flagged tanker “Ensilia” was hit; authorities said crews were safe and measures were taken to protect the marine environment, while the wider escalation raises fresh risks for shipping through Bab al-Mandeb. UAE Aviation & Emissions Context: The UAE’s National Aircraft Registry has surpassed 1,000 registered aircraft, with more than half operated by Emirati carriers—an aviation growth signal that also puts a spotlight on cleaner fuels and efficiency. Water & Health in Summer Heat: UAE doctors warn of a seasonal rise in kidney stone cases linked to dehydration, urging residents to stay hydrated and watch urine changes during extreme temperatures. Local Agriculture & Biodiversity: Liwa’s 22nd edition of the dates festival highlighted Emirati palm farming, awarding AED 8m in prizes and pushing better farming methods to protect the palm heritage. Cycling & Liveability: A renewed push for a dedicated bike park in Kuwait underlines the region’s growing interest in safer, more sustainable mobility—an idea that resonates with UAE soft-mobility plans. UAE Tech for Resilience: The UAE’s first National Environmental Radiation Measurements Portal was launched, strengthening monitoring capacity for environmental radiation data.

UAE Infrastructure & Mobility: Etihad Rail will open the Madinat Zayed and Liwa passenger stations on Nov 30—one month ahead of schedule—boosting access for Al Dhafra events and visitors. Urban Development: Aldar unveiled Marsa Al Saadiyat, a Dh100bn waterfront destination on Saadiyat Island, aiming to house 58,000 residents and expand Abu Dhabi’s long-term appeal. Built Environment & Safety: Sharjah Police said its CCTV network is key for preventing crime, tracking vehicles, and speeding up investigations. Energy & Environment Risk: Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea shipping continue to raise oil prices above $95, with fresh fears for global fuel supply—an indirect pressure point for regional emissions and air quality. UAE Economy & Planning: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid approved a National Programme to modernise the UAE statistics system, including a unified 2024 base year and revised GDP time series for 2010–2026. Public Health & Skills: Tamkeen and M42 in Bahrain plan an AI-enabled healthcare training push via the Amana Academy and digital public-sector initiatives.

Port Expansion: DP World signed a 50-year concession with Fujairah Ports Authority to develop two multipurpose container ports—Al Rugaylat and Dibba Al Fujairah—boosting UAE maritime capacity and jobs. Sustainable Healthcare: Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center announced a major Huntington’s disease research breakthrough, using patient-derived stem cells and brain models to uncover a key mechanism tied to disease progression. Transport Push: Etihad Rail is moving ahead with the opening of Al Dhafra stations, with UAE leadership stressing support for an integrated, sustainable transport network. Maritime Leisure Development: Abu Dhabi launched Marsa Al Saadiyat (Dh100bn, 6.4m sqm), featuring a large marina, waterfront promenade, parks and cycling/walking paths. Climate & Water Security: A UAE-linked commentary warns that geopolitical conflict is pushing climate concerns aside, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical energy chokepoint. Wildlife Protection: Colombia’s police dismantled a wildlife trafficking network, seizing 109 endangered specimens and disrupting illegal trade routes. SAF Scaling: King Charles-backed Sustainable Markets Initiative is targeting major airports to scale sustainable aviation fuel volumes.

Solar Healthcare in India (UAE-backed): The Zayed Sustainability Prize’s Beyond2020 has rolled out solar-powered health centres in Karnataka, reaching 200,000+ people with off-grid medical services powered by photovoltaic systems. Maritime Safety Upgrade (Abu Dhabi): Abu Dhabi Mobility has started operating a centralised waterway monitoring and control centre, using radar, CCTV and communications to track vessels and improve emergency response across 45,000 sq km of waterways. Clean Transport Reporting (SPIRO): SPIRO published its first Sustainability Report, setting an ESG baseline (including Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions) as it scales electric mobility across Africa. Water Security & Conflict Risk: Coverage highlights how Gulf tensions and attacks are disrupting shipping and raising risks for essential systems like desalinated water and maritime corridors. Research Collaboration (UAE): TRENDS Global signed an MoU with Liwa University to expand joint research and knowledge exchange tied to sustainable development. Community & Food Security (UAE): AWQAF launched the 3rd Mikhrafah date Zakat outreach initiative during Liwa Date Festival, pairing religious guidance with harvest-season support.

Aviation & Climate Policy: Emirates warned that a proposed EU carbon charge on some international flights would hit airlines twice, arguing it undermines the global CORSIA offset system; the plan could start affecting routes to the Middle East, Turkey and North Africa from 2029. UAE Water Safety: Dubai Municipality rolled out AI-powered household water testing to detect bacterial contamination like Legionella and E. coli faster, covering tanks, taps, pools and non-bottled drinking water. Sustainable Agriculture: Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation opened nominations for its 19th edition, aiming to turn research into practical, food-security gains for date palm farmers. Food & Heritage: Sharjah Maqeed Summer Camp in Khorfakkan runs through 30 July with heritage-focused workshops and activities for children. Local Mobility Comfort: Abu Dhabi’s cooled Khalidiya Park walkway is helping residents keep up summer fitness with air-conditioned outdoor walking. Energy & Risk Watch: With Strait of Hormuz disruptions linked to renewed regional tensions, gas prices are rising in some markets, underscoring how conflict can quickly ripple into energy costs.

Maritime Safety in Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Mobility has activated a Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre with Abu Dhabi Maritime and National Guard support, using smart systems to track navigational channels across 45,000 sq km of water and coordinate public maritime services. Solar Health Access: The Zayed Sustainability Prize’s Beyond2020 initiative deployed six solar-powered health centres in Karnataka, India, improving care for more than 200,000 people in remote areas. District Cooling Expansion: Empower has started work on a new 23,400 RT district cooling plant in Al Sufouh 2, aiming to meet rising demand with efficient, lower-impact cooling services by Q3 2027. UAE Climate & Resilience Finance: DIFC will host its first Future Sustainability Forum on Nov 3, focusing on sustainable finance, clean energy transition and climate-resilient growth. Energy Security Push: ADnoc approved the $6.2bn Umm Shaif Gas Cap offshore project, targeting gas production from around 2030 to support UAE gas self-sufficiency. Cyber Risk for Businesses: Sophos’ ransomware report says identity takeovers drive most attacks in the UAE, with average recovery costs of $665,000. Clean Tech & Waterway Links: UKMTO reported a vessel hit by an unknown projectile off the UAE coast; authorities say there was no environmental impact and the incident is under investigation.

Maritime Security: UKMTO says a commercial vessel was hit by an unknown projectile 17 nautical miles east of Dibba, with damage to steering gear and no reported environmental impact; authorities are investigating. Regional Conflict & Shipping Risk: UKMTO also reported another attack off Oman where a vessel is adrift and on fire, again with no environmental impact recorded—raising pressure on Gulf sea lanes. Sustainable Transport: UAE took part in the 3rd BRICS Transport Ministers’ Meeting in India, backing a roadmap for sustainable transport, decarbonisation, smart mobility, SAF and a BRICS railway research network. Water & Digital Governance: WEF recognized UAE PASS as a global GovTech model for integrated government digital infrastructure, reinforcing the UAE’s push for smarter public services. Conservation Milestone: Sharjah marked one year since UNESCO listed the Faya Palaeolandscape, expanding research, conservation planning and public engagement via a dedicated World Heritage Office and a Dh2m research grant. Public Safety: Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority received NFPA recognition for building a sustainable fire safety and prevention system aligned with international standards. Health & Prevention: UAE’s NDEA launched the Hisn service (80044) to provide prevention, treatment and rehabilitation support for substance abuse.

Water & Desalination: Dubai’s DEWA is set to award a AED335.92m contract to Binladin Contracting for GRE water transmission pipelines tied to the Hassyan SWRO Phase 2 desalination project, aimed at boosting reliability and capacity in Dubai’s potable water network. Shipping Safety in the Gulf: UKMTO says a crew safely abandoned a vessel after it was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz; there’s no reported environmental impact, but the ship remains adrift as tensions disrupt one of the world’s key oil and LNG routes. Renewables & Clean Fuel Logistics: Allied Biofuels signed a logistics cooperation deal with Pro Logistic Services to build export corridors for SAF and e-SAF from Uzbekistan to Europe and the UAE, supporting a US$6.08bn project backed by a presidential decree. Community & Volunteering: Abu Dhabi’s Department of Community Development launched Neighbourhood Volunteer Teams with Emirates Foundation, starting in five areas and expanding to build safer, more connected local communities. UAE Climate-Resilience Signals: Emirates’ 100-aircraft retrofit milestone (US$5bn programme) marks major cabin upgrades, while Dubai’s soft mobility push continues with plans for safer walking and cycling infrastructure by 2030. Air Quality Cross-Border Warning: US President Trump urged Canada to contain wildfire smoke spillover, warning of possible economic penalties if “poisoning our air” continues.