Dubai: Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) today launched its 'Unlocking Sustainable Finance' Series, a sector-focused platform designed to support priority industries in transitioning towards a more sustainable economy. The inaugural edition, 'Transitioning Real Estate', gathered over 80 senior stakeholders from the built environment ecosystem, including policymakers, developers, and sustainability experts.
According to Emirates News Agency, the forum concentrated on the UAE's real estate sector, exploring how sustainable finance can enhance asset efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and create resilient infrastructure. The event began with a keynote address by Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group CEO of DIB, followed by the announcement of client sustainability commitments to drive tangible market action.
During the event, DIB formalised a LEED-precertified project facility with Azizi Developments to support a green building project. The formalisation was attended by Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman, and Farhad Azizi, Group CEO of Azizi Developments. Additionally, DIB entered a partnership with Imtiaz Developments through a Green Concierge MoU, setting a collaborative framework for sustainability direction and financing readiness.
Dr. Adnan Chilwan emphasized real estate's role in economic development and sustainability. He highlighted the series' aim to make sustainable real estate credible and financeable, while reducing emissions and improving resilience. The launch aligns with DIB's goal to have sustainable assets represent 15% of its financing and investing book by 2030.
DIB's sustainable finance efforts have resulted in significant impacts, including the avoidance of over 155,000 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions and support for more than 13,000 electric vehicles. The forum included discussions on policy frameworks, building performance data, and waste management strategies.
A highlight of the programme was the introduction of Green Concierge, DIB's platform to support organizations in their transition journey. The platform combines sustainable finance expertise with Shariah-compliant structuring and DIB's debt capital market capabilities.
The event concluded with workshops and the launch of an industry collaboration pact for sustainable real estate finance. Building on this success, DIB plans to expand its series across other sectors facing transition challenges, fostering industry dialogue and sustainable market development.
