The UAE secured first place in the Economic Category of the 2024 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Partnerships Awards — the UN's annual recognition of the most effective sustainable-development partnerships for island nations. The winning entries were the UAE Pacific Partnership Fund and the UAE Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund, nominated by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD).
UAE Takes Top Honour at 2024 SIDS Partnerships Awards
The two clean energy initiatives represent a strategic collaboration between the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ADFD, and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar). Their shared goal is to accelerate renewable electricity generation, cut dependence on fossil fuels, improve energy security, and address climate change across Caribbean and Pacific island communities.
ADFD mobilised USD 100 million and built a cooperative model bringing together three UAE entities, one university, and 26 governments from Small Island Developing States. The projects span solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies, widening electricity access while stimulating local economic growth.
Impact: Jobs, Innovation, and Climate Resilience
Beyond clean power, the funds have delivered broader development benefits. His Excellency Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, noted: "By mobilising USD 100 million and fostering a unique cooperative model, we have been able to work alongside all our partners to bring these transformative projects to life."
Projects backed by the funds create jobs, empower women, and build climate resilience — a critical priority for low-lying island states that are among the most exposed to rising sea levels and extreme weather.
First MENA Institution to Win the Award
ADFD's recognition marks a milestone for the region: it is the first institution from the Middle East and North Africa to receive the UN SIDS Partnerships Award. The award was presented at the 2024 SIDS Conference, spotlighting the UAE's expanding role as a global partner in sustainable development.
The UAE's success at the 2024 SIDS Partnerships Award reinforces its broader climate ambitions — from hosting COP28 in late 2023 to channelling development finance into renewable infrastructure across some of the world's most climate-vulnerable communities.
