Abu Dhabi Advances Low-Carbon Economy with First-Year MRV Data, Supporting Decarbonisation Targets

Abu Dhabi has marked the successful completion of the first year of its Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) programme, strengthening the emirate’s position as a regional leader in climate-focused economic competitiveness, emissions transparency, and investment readiness.

Since its launch, the MRV programme has covered more than 10 strategic economic activities across four major emitting sectors — power, oil and gas, industry, and transport. In its inaugural year, the programme collected emissions data totalling approximately 90 million tonnes (Mt) of CO₂, representing the majority of emissions from regulated activities across the emirate.

Driving Data-Led Decarbonisation

By enabling consistent, facility-level emissions measurement, the MRV framework allows operators to identify carbon-intensive processes, prioritise energy-efficiency improvements, reduce operational costs, and lower the carbon intensity of production. These measures are expected to enhance productivity while aligning industrial operations with Abu Dhabi’s long-term decarbonisation targets.

Dr Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), said the first year of the programme marked a shift towards data-driven climate action.

“By capturing 90 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions from more than 250 companies, we have brought 80% of Abu Dhabi’s major emitting activities under a single, transparent framework. This establishes the foundation for a high-performance, low-carbon economy and supports long-term competitiveness,” she said.

She added that the programme directly supports Abu Dhabi’s 22% emissions reduction target by 2027, accelerating technology adoption, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening economic resilience, while aligning outputs with international standards to enhance the emirate’s appeal for green investment.

Regulatory Framework and Next Phase

The MRV programme was developed in close coordination with public and private stakeholders to ensure practical implementation and compliance with Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 on the Reduction of Climate Change Effects. Under Article 6 of the legislation, regulated entities are required to measure, report, and verify greenhouse gas emissions, establishing a robust legal framework for transparency and regulatory oversight.

As the programme enters its next phase, covered facilities will be required to submit verified emissions data for the January–December 2025 reporting period by 31 March 2026, in line with the MRV Technical Guidance issued by EAD. The move is aimed at ensuring consistent, high-quality emissions reporting across all regulated sectors.