ZAWYA-PRESSR: UAE and Gulf economies emerge as ESG front-runners in PROI Worldwide’s Global ESG Report 2025

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First published: 16-Dec-2025 14:23:07Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The UAE and Gulf are emerging among the world’s most proactive regions on sustainability, according to PROI Worldwide’s new Global ESG Report 2025. Produced by the world’s largest partnership of independent communications consultancies - with more than 90 partner agencies in over 65 countries - the report finds that the Middle East is strengthening regulation, raising expectations and linking sustainability directly to economic growth. Mojo Communications Consultancy contributed the UAE and Gulf perspective as PROI’s regional partner for the past decade.Governments and businesses in the region are moving quickly to integrate sustainability into commercial priorities and regulation. In the UAE, the climate law, in force since 30 May 2025, requires every business to measure, report and cut emissions by 2026 or face financial penalties.Sustainability as an economic priorityThe report notes that Gulf economies, historically defined by oil wealth, have become among the most active globally in mandating ESG commitments. Sustainability is now tied to job creation, innovation and wider economic diversification. National strategies such as Saudi Vision 2030, UAE Net Zero 2050 and Qatar National Vision 2030 reinforce this approach.The findings reflect a broader global shift towards demanding evidence of ESG progress, while showing that Gulf markets are moving with greater alignment and momentum.Public communication is also becoming more grounded, with terms such as responsible business, sustainability, resilience and inclusion used more widely, while ESG terminology remains essential for regulatory and investor requirements.Marianna Wisden, Associate Partner at Mojo Communications Consultancy, said:“Sustainability here is driven by outcomes that genuinely matter to people. It shapes how companies create jobs, build skills and support a future that relies on a broader base than oil alone. The frameworks are in place and businesses are getting on with the work. As real results emerge, they will build confidence in what our region can achieve at scale.”Social and governance priorities gaining urgencyEnvironmental commitments are well established across the region. The report notes that the focus is now shifting to the social and governance pillars, with clearer reporting on skills development, national ...

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