Abu Dhabi Introduces Mandatory Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting And Verification Framework

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has issued Resolution No. (03) of 2026, introducing a comprehensive framework for measuring, reporting, and verifying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the emirate. The new regulation establishes a structured system for collecting reliable emissions data and strengthening environmental monitoring across industrial and other covered entities.

Under the resolution, industrial facilities and entities that meet or exceed specified greenhouse gas emission thresholds will be required to monitor their emissions and submit detailed reports to the EAD. The reported data must be independently verified by accredited third-party verifiers registered with the agency.

The EAD has established technical, professional, and operational requirements for these verification bodies. The framework is intended to ensure that emissions information submitted by regulated entities is accurate, consistent, and supported by appropriate verification procedures.

The new system also provides an option for smaller facilities operating below the mandatory reporting thresholds to voluntarily measure, report, and verify their greenhouse gas emissions. Such voluntary participation will allow businesses to establish carbon inventories and improve their understanding of emissions associated with their operations.

The regulatory framework is also expected to create opportunities for private-sector service providers. Increased demand for emissions measurement, carbon accounting, environmental consulting, verification, and auditing services could support the development of specialized expertise and qualified local professionals in Abu Dhabi.

As part of the implementation, the EAD is developing a centralized digital database for managing greenhouse gas information. The digital platform will enable entities to submit emissions reports electronically, while providing systems for secure data storage and archiving. The agency will also use data analytics and other digital technologies to process information, monitor performance indicators, and prepare reports for relevant authorities.

The collected data is expected to support evidence-based environmental policymaking. By maintaining a structured record of emissions across regulated sectors, authorities will be able to assess trends, evaluate progress, identify areas requiring further action, and develop future climate measures.

The resolution is aligned with Federal Decree-Law No. (11) of 2024 on climate change mitigation, which requires local authorities to coordinate with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in developing appropriate climate-related reporting mechanisms.

Developed in coordination with relevant government stakeholders, the EAD resolution strengthens Abu Dhabi’s framework for emissions monitoring and environmental accountability. The initiative is expected to improve the availability and reliability of climate data while supporting efforts to raise industrial environmental standards and advance the emirate’s wider sustainable development objectives.