Skip to main content

      Globally, ESG reporting is transitioning from voluntary disclosures to mandatory frameworks in a number of jurisdictions, driven by investor demand, regulatory requirements, and societal expectations. Standards such as ISSB, GRI, and TCFD are shaping how organizations measure and communicate sustainability performance. This global shift underscores that ESG is no longer a compliance exercise; it is a strategic imperative influencing capital flows and corporate reputation.​

      In the United Arab Emirates, sustainability is a national priority embedded within the country’s long-term development vision.​Through the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, the nation is enhancing energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy, adopting sustainable transportation and green building practices, and implementing nature-based solutions and carbon capture technologies.

      This inaugural edition of KPMG UAE’s sustainability outlook highlights key reporting and assurance trends to guide your ESG journey. This publication is intended to support boards, executives, investors, and other stakeholders as they navigate the next phase of sustainability reporting and assurance in the United Arab Emirates.​ 

      Sustainability reporting outlook

      In 2024, a 10% increase indicated a growing commitment among listed companies in United Arab Emirates to publish sustainability information and enhance transparency. ESG disclosures in 2024 showed steady growth from 2023, driven by investor expectations, and the pursuit of stronger ESG ratings.​

      136 listed companies in the United Arab Emirates published sustainability information, compared to 124 companies in 2023. Out of 136 published sustainability reports, 83 were standalone sustainability reports, 41 were integrated reports, and 12 included sustainability disclosures within annual reports, reflecting the different approaches companies take to communicate their ESG.

      Sustainability assurance outlook

      Assurance over sustainability reports has increased, with 12 companies obtaining 3rd party/independent assurance in 2023 and 17 in 2024.

      In 2024, sustainability reporting saw notable progress in both quality and depth, with many companies strengthening their disclosures, aligning more closely with global standards, and incorporating assurance planning into their updated sustainability strategies, setting the stage for wider assurance adoption in the future. 

      Contact us

      Mohammed Saad Hasheem

      Partner, ESG Assurance Leader

      KPMG Middle East

      Urooj Farhat Khan

      Director, ESG Assurance Lead (UAE and Oman)

      KPMG Middle East