UAE’s Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024: A Landmark Step in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

On 30 May 2025, the United Arab Emirates will officially enforce Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 on the Reduction of Climate Change Effects. This forward-looking legislation marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s commitment to climate action, aligning with international best practices and the Paris Agreement. The law provides a robust framework for emissions management, climate adaptation, innovation, and international cooperation, positioning the UAE as a regional leader in sustainability.

Key Provisions and Objectives

The law’s primary objectives are to:

• Manage and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate neutrality.

• Strengthen the resilience of ecosystems, economic sectors, and society to climate change impacts.

• Foster innovation, research, and the adoption of advanced technologies for climate mitigation and adaptation.

• Promote data sharing and cooperation on climate science at national, regional, and international levels.

• Align local and national strategies to enhance the UAE’s global competitiveness and support sustainable, green, and circular economies.

Scope and Applicability

The law applies to all emissions sources within the UAE, including those in free zones. It mandates that both public and private entities adopt measures to reduce emissions, such as:

• Improving energy efficiency,

• Using clean energy,

• Enhancing natural carbon sinks,

• Deploying carbon capture, use, and storage (CCUS),

• Implementing carbon offsetting,

• Adopting integrated waste management, and

• Embracing other technologies as determined by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

National Pathway to Climate Neutrality

Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 requires the Cabinet, in coordination with relevant authorities, to set annual emission reduction targets across all sectors. These targets are periodically reviewed to reflect economic development priorities and international best practices. Each sector must develop and update plans to achieve these targets and ultimately reach climate neutrality.

Measurement, Reporting, and Verification

Entities are required to regularly measure and report their emissions, maintain records for at least five years, and submit data to the Ministry. An electronic system will be established for streamlined data collection and verification, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Adaptation and Resilience Building

The law obliges authorities to develop and implement climate adaptation plans for critical sectors such as infrastructure, energy, environment, health, and insurance. These plans must assess climate risks, establish early warning systems, and report on adaptation progress and climate-related losses.

Incentives and Carbon Offsetting

To encourage proactive climate action, the law introduces incentives for adopting new technologies and advanced mitigation measures. Mechanisms include carbon offsetting, emissions trading, and the use of shadow carbon pricing. The Ministry will also establish a National Carbon Credit Registry.

International Cooperation and Reporting

The UAE will continue to strengthen its international climate profile through cooperation, reporting, and compliance with international obligations, including the submission of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and adaptation plans to the UNFCCC.

Penalties and Enforcement

Non-compliance with emissions measurement and reporting can result in fines ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 2,000,000, with doubled penalties for repeat violations. Entities have one year from the law’s entry into force to comply, with possible extensions granted by the Cabinet.

Conclusion

Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 represents a comprehensive and ambitious approach to climate governance in the UAE. By integrating mitigation, adaptation, technology, and international cooperation, the law sets a strong foundation for sustainable development and climate resilience, in line with the UAE’s vision and global commitments.