The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has unveiled two new sustainability courses aimed at enhancing environmental practices within the hospitality sector. By introducing the “27 Measures of Sustainability” and the “Dubai Sustainable Tourism” courses, DET seeks to equip professionals in tourism and hospitality with essential knowledge and actionable strategies to foster sustainability. These initiatives are part of Dubai’s broader commitment to sustainable tourism, reflecting the city’s ambition to become a leader in responsible hospitality.

Empowering Sustainable Practices in Hospitality

The newly launched courses will be offered by the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) via the Dubai Way platform. The courses were introduced during the Arabian Travel Market 2026, emphasizing Dubai’s ongoing commitment to sustainability even as the global tourism sector continues to adapt to complex challenges. These educational programs aim to support a seamless integration of sustainable practices into day-to-day operations, aligning with broader sustainability imperatives such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 2030 and the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

As one of the cornerstones of the Dubai Sustainable Tourism initiative, education plays a crucial role in cultivating responsible tourism practices. The “27 Measures of Sustainability” course will familiarize participants with the updated framework, which enhances the existing 19 Sustainability Requirements by increasing the number of mandatory measures to 27. This expanded set aims to improve both environmental and social performance in hotels, establishing a more robust standard for responsible hospitality.

Practical Guidance for Hotel Operations

The curriculum will provide practical guidance tailored to hotel operators, helping them navigate the newly updated requirements. Key focus areas include energy and water efficiency, waste management, community engagement, and climate action—all essential for integrating sustainability into hotel operations. Participants will gain the skills needed to effectively implement these measures, thus enhancing performance and accountability within their establishments.

In addition to the “27 Measures of Sustainability,” the “Dubai Sustainable Tourism” course will introduce fundamental sustainability principles, such as responsible resource consumption and effective waste management. Together, these courses aim to equip tourism and hospitality professionals with a well-rounded understanding of sustainable practices that can be applied in real-world settings, bolstering Dubai’s reputation as a responsible destination.

A Collaborative Investment in Sustainability

Yousuf Lootah, CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance at DET, highlighted that the new framework represents a significant leap forward in defining sustainable hospitality in Dubai. By ensuring that hotels and tourism operators understand and effectively implement these requirements, DET reinforces its commitment to fostering a sustainable tourism ecosystem. This collaborative approach reflects Dubai’s ambitions to lead in environmental stewardship within the global tourism sector.

Since its inception in 2017, the Dubai Way platform has actively engaged over 190,000 candidates, facilitating over three million training hours. This substantial outreach underscores the importance of building expertise within Dubai’s tourism workforce. Through a range of educational tools, including self-paced video lessons and interactive assessments, the platform not only supports professional development but also elevates the quality of visitor experiences in Dubai.

The upcoming courses will further enhance the existing suite of tools and initiatives aimed at fostering sustainability in the hospitality sector. As Dubai moves toward its sustainability goals, these new educational offerings pave the way for a future-ready tourism ecosystem, contributing to national targets like the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy. By setting these high standards, Dubai positions itself as a leader in responsible tourism, ensuring confidence and continued growth within the sector.