Green finance tops the agenda at the World Green Economy Summit 2025

In light of escalating environmental challenges and the global push to achieve net-zero goals, the 11th edition of the World Green Economy Summit (WGES) continues to serve as a vital platform that brings together decision-makers, investors and experts from around the world. This year’s event comes at a critical time as the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and data centres intersects with the urgent need to reshape the future of energy towards more sustainable and efficient alternatives. Summit sessions will explore financial mechanisms driving the green transition, address major challenges in scaling up renewable energy and explore avenues for climate solution financing.

Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the summit is organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO). Each year, the summit addresses key topics related to mobilising global efforts to accelerate the shift towards a green economy, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030. The current edition, held under the theme ‘Innovating for Impact: Accelerating the Future of the Green Economy’, will take place on 1-2 October 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, MD and CEO of DEWA and Chairman of WGEO, said: “Global investments in clean technologies – including renewable energy, grids and storage – are projected to exceed USD 2.2 trillion in 2025, double the investment in fossil fuels, within a total global investment of USD 3.3 trillion. However, developing countries continue to face a significant financing gap, requiring an increase in annual clean energy investments from USD 270 billion to approximately USD 1.6 trillion by the early 2030s. This underscores the need for innovative international co-ordination to reduce capital costs and mitigate investment risks. The World Green Economy Summit reflects our commitment to supporting global efforts to achieve the transition to a comprehensive and sustainable green economy, based on innovation and effective partnerships, supporting Dubai's position as a global hub for climate action.”

Growth of green economy

Jaison John, Founder of Avia & Co, and one of the speakers at WGES 2025, said: “As the IMF projects 3% global growth in 2025, the USD 7.9 trillion green economy is surging ahead. It is growing by 15% a year and drawing USD 2.2 trillion in clean energy investment. The Middle East’s USD 3.8 trillion sovereign wealth funds are leading the charge, and the UAE is reaching nearly 28% in renewables, showcasing what ambitious commitments can achieve. The race towards a sustainable future is on, yet 31% of investors remain held back by policy uncertainty. Our real task is not choosing between energy security and climate action; it is building bold, integrated policies that successfully unlock both.”

Rahul Ghosh, Managing Director and Global Head of Sustainable Finance at Moody's Ratings and one of the speakers at WGES 2025, said: “The Middle East faces an annual energy transition investment gap of USD 168 billion by 2030. The debt capital markets will play an important role in bridging the gap and we expect greater issuance from governments and companies across the region to fund transition assets and activities.”

Jessica Cheam, Founder and CEO of Eco-Business and one of the speakers at WGES 2025, said: “I'm delighted to be heading to Dubai on 1-2 October to participate in the World Green Economy Summit – a timely platform initiated by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, DEWA and the World Green Economy Organization. It is one of the leading global forums on the green economy, bringing together world-class experts in critical sectors from around the world to directly focus on advancing the global green economy and sustainability agenda, achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. I look forward to participating in this high-level forum Specifically, I'll be speaking at a discussion on ‘Navigating Shifting Climate Policy Across Markets’.”

Financing: Investment mobilisation mechanisms for a green transition

WGES 2025 discussions will focus on removing barriers to investment-ready green projects and enhancing risk-sharing mechanisms, such as guarantees provided by international financial institutions, to attract greater capital flows into sustainable initiatives. Sessions will also address challenges and opportunities in voluntary carbon markets, which experienced a 25% decline in trading volume in 2024 and a 5.5% drop in credit prices, reflecting a growing market shift towards quality and accountability. The summit will examine possible regulatory approaches to enhance transparency, ensure high-integrity carbon credits and strengthen governance frameworks.

Sustainable bonds remain a key financing instrument, with the global market reaching approximately USD 1.1 trillion in 2024, an 11% increase compared to 2023. This growth clearly reflects the rising interest among investors in green finance. Green disclosure standards and sustainability ratings are essential for channelling investments into projects that deliver long-term positive impact.

The summit will further explore strategies for aligning private sector investment with international climate goals by fostering stronger public-private financing partnerships and showcasing successful models from around the world in mobilising capital for clean energy projects. WGES offers an integrated framework for activating sustainable financing tools – from green bonds to risk-sharing guarantees – contributing to the creation of a global financial system based on climate justice and resource sustainability. This positions investment as a key pillar in building a more resilient, secure and sustainable economic future.