SAUD BIN SAQR AL QASIMI / ACHIEVEMENTS / Environment & sustainability
SUMMARY
His Highness Sheikh Saud is championing sustainability in Ras Al Khaimah through a number of initiatives, including the Ras Al Khaimah Integrated Sustainability Strategy 2050, a comprehensive policy that aims for significant reductions in energy and water consumption and an increase in renewable energy contributions. His commitment to preserving the environment is further exemplified by the establishment of Khor Mazahmi, the Emirate’s first wetland nature reserve, and initiatives such as ‘Green Lung’, which enhances green spaces and reduces the carbon footprint. These efforts reflect His Highness’s vision for a sustainable future, promoting both ecological preservation and environmental innovation across Ras Al Khaimah.
Integrated Sustainability
Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Saud, the Ras Al Khaimah Integrated Sustainability Strategy 2050 was created in 2024 to expand upon the existing Energy Efficiency and Renewables Strategy 2040 and support the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. It addresses energy efficiency, security, environmental protection, industrial competitiveness and decarbonization, with key objectives to maintain a secure and cost-competitive supply of energy and water; protect and enhance the natural environment; and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Led by Ras Al Khaimah Municipality’s Energy Efficiency and Renewables Office (Reem), the comprehensive strategy touches upon practically every aspect of government policy and public life, driving change and aiming to cut energy use by 30%, water consumption by 20% and ensure a 20% contribution from renewable energy sources across the Emirate.
Nature reserve
Established by Ruler’s decree in October 2018, Khor Mazahmi is Ras Al Khaimah’s first wetland nature reserve, home to mangroves, flamingos and the critically endangered green turtle. The site contains more than 112 species of terrestrial and marine plants, and His Highness Sheikh Saud requested Ras Al Khaimah’s Environment Protection and Development Authority to set up a nursery for mangrove tree seedlings there, to ensure the reserve’s ongoing sustainability.
‘Green Lung’ initiative
His Highness Sheikh Saud instigated and oversees the Environment Protection and Development Authority’s ‘Green Lung’ initiative, through various projects helps reduce Ras Al Khaimah’s carbon footprint through increasing green spaces and replacing invasive flora with indigenous alternatives. The initiative also aims to plant one million trees across Ras Al Khaimah and is supported by an innovative decision to replace environmental penalties with tree planting for violators.
Sustainable Tourism
With tourism Ras Al Khaimah’s fastest-growing sector, His Highness Sheikh Saud has moved to ensure that the growing hospitality industry is adopting sustainable practices and is aligned with the Emirate’s environmental and sustainability ambitions. Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainable tourism strategy is implemented by the Emirate’s Tourism Development Authority and has been devised to ensure that the vast growth in this sector takes place with sustainability at the heart of all decision-making. As a result, Ras Al Khaimah has been awarded a Silver Certification from EarthCheck, the world’s leading certification group for sustainable destinations, making it the first destination in the Middle East to attain this accolade.
Eco-Label
His Highness Sheikh Saud carefully balances his pro-business outlook with environmental preservation and sustainability, leading to multiple initiatives to ensure companies operating in Ras Al Khaimah apply environmentally friendly practices. One such initiative is Eco-Label, which certifies companies involved in manufacturing, the Emirate’s largest sector, when they are adjudged to be adopting sustainable practices.
Economic prosperity
Under His Highness Sheikh Saud’s visionary leadership, Ras Al Khaimah has evolved into a thriving economic hub, driven by transparency, collaboration and a pro-business approach. His focus on infrastructure development…
Community development
His Highness Sheikh Saud has embarked upon a journey to transform Ras Al Khaimah through his commitment to community development. A passionate advocate for education, he has established a strong academic ecosystem…
Safety, security & justice
His Highness Sheikh Saud has prioritized safety, security and justice as cornerstones of Ras Al Khaimah’s pursuit of prosperity. His leadership has made the Emirate an extremely safe place to live and his commitment to good governance…
Government modernization
His Highness Sheikh Saud’s philosophy of governance emphasizes integrity, vision and empathy, seeing government as an enabler for people and businesses to thrive. His leadership has modernized and grown the capacity…