Expo City Dubai earns the highest sustainable tourism certification from GSTC, positioning the Expo City Dubai tourism sustainability model as a global benchmark in eco-tourism.
DUBAI: Expo City Dubai has achieved a historic milestone in sustainable travel, becoming the first city in the MENA region to earn the highest level of certification under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The recognition, awarded in compliance with the Green Destinations Standard, reinforces the UAE’s growing reputation as a global leader in eco-conscious tourism.
The achievement comes ahead of the inaugural Sustainable Destinations Forum, which runs from 28–29 October at Expo City Dubai. The certification evaluates cities across six criteria: destination management, environment and climate, culture, social wellbeing, governance, and natural heritage — all of which were fully met by Expo City. The city’s sustainability-first planning, accessibility, and community integration have already earned it WELL Community and LEED Platinum pre-certifications.
The Expo City Dubai tourism sustainability vision is embedded in every detail — from its net-zero architecture and green spaces to dedicated educational platforms like Terra, a flagship sustainability pavilion. Terra also houses the IUCN Centre for Species Survival (Fungi) and the regional office of Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots, turning Expo City into a true living lab for environmental stewardship.
The certification will be awarded during the Sustainable Destinations Forum, co-hosted with Green Destinations and in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism. “Sustainability is part of Expo City Dubai’s DNA,” said Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture. “This certification proves that tourism can — and must — support culture, environment and climate action.”
Held at The Nexus, an ISO-certified venue, the Forum will gather government leaders, tourism professionals, developers and global organisations to spotlight policy, innovation, and business practices that advance sustainable tourism. As part of Dubai’s broader tourism for good movement, Expo City Dubai tourism sustainability is a model for responsible growth and climate-aligned development.
