Dubai Sustainable Tourism awards: Final call

Dubai Tourism has said that hotel establishments in Dubai have February to enter the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Awards 2018, with nominations set to close on 28 February. 

The awards, an integral part of the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) initiative, have been introduced to recognise both hotels and individuals adopting tangible measures that contribute to enhanced sustainability within the emirate’s tourism sector.

The fifth edition of the DST Awards will feature 20 categories, with 13 main awards targeted towards different types of hospitality establishments, including hotels, resorts, apartments, guest houses and adventure camps.

Dubai Tourism said: “Seven special awards will recognise individuals and leaders who are true champions of sustainability and have inspired remarkable change within their organisations.”

The categories include: Sustainability champion, best green team, conservation champion, CSR record holder, green procurement patron, best retrofit implementation and renewable energy leader.

The winners of the awards will be revealed at an industry ceremony, receiving a special acknowledgement, and enjoying a number of accolades and benefits.

These include the opportunity to join the DST team in industry roadshows, be featured as part of DST business cases, and receive dedicated sustainability hospitality vocational training through the Dubai College of Tourism, the release revealed.  

Following the deadline, an evaluation and approval process will be conducted by the DST committee to determine the winning entries.

The awards’ criteria has been designed to meet the challenges outlined in Dubai’s Carbon Abatement Strategy, issued by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, which commits to reducing carbon emissions by 16% by 2021, said the release.  

The awards also support the UAE’s Green Growth Strategy which aims to build an economic system with sustainability at its core.

These initiatives in turn, are in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Ruler of Dubai to position Dubai as a leading sustainable city.

The release pointed out that Dubai Tourism is carrying out its sustainability initiative in collaboration with the following partners: Etihad ESCO, Dubai Carbon, Emirates Environmental Group, Emirates Wildlife Society – WWF and Emirates Green Building Council, as well as the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, DEWA and Dubai Municipality as strategic partners.