In 2016, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) distinguished itself as the first country in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to sign and ratify the Paris Agreement, signaling a robust commitment to global climate action.

This landmark move set the stage for a series of domestic legal reforms aimed at aligning national policies with international climate goals.

Understanding the Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty adopted in December 2015, aiming to limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels.

While it mandates countries to submit and update their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) every five years, it does not impose specific emission reduction targets, relying instead on transparency and peer pressure to encourage compliance.

Significance of the UAE’s Commitment

By being the first MENA country to ratify the Paris Agreement, the UAE positioned itself as a regional leader in climate initiatives.

This commitment underscored the nation’s recognition of climate change as a threat to regional stability, economic security, and human well-being.

Domestic Legal Reforms Following the Paris Agreement

In alignment with its international commitments, the UAE has enacted several domestic laws to address climate change:

  • Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 On the Reduction of Climate Change Effects: This comprehensive legislation mandates all entities, including those in free zones, to measure, track, and manage their greenhouse gas emissions. It supports national sustainability objectives and carbon neutrality targets, aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and the Paris Agreement.
  • Cabinet Resolution No. (67) of 2024 Concerning the National Register For Carbon Credits: This resolution establishes a National Register for Carbon Credits, providing a framework for accounting, monitoring, and reporting greenhouse gas emissions. It lays the groundwork for a transparent and effective carbon emissions management system across various sectors.
  • Law No. (11) of 2024 Establishing the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority: This law aims to enhance the governance of environmental and climate-related matters in Dubai, ensuring alignment with national and international environmental objectives.
  • Single-Use Plastic Ban: The UAE announced a ban on single-use plastic shopping bags, effective January 1, 2024, extending to plastic cups, plates, and cutlery by 2026. This initiative aims to reduce pollution and support the UAE’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Relevance to COP29 and Beyond

The UAE’s proactive stance on climate issues was further highlighted by its hosting of COP28 in Dubai in December 2023.

During this conference, significant agreements were reached, including a decision to “transition away” from fossil fuels.

Building on this momentum, the UAE aims to release a new national climate plan under the Paris Agreement, detailing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from 2025 to 2035.

These legislative actions demonstrate the UAE’s dedication to translating international agreements into tangible national policies, reinforcing its role as a leader in environmental law and climate action within the region.