On June 8, 2026, the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) hosted a pivotal event aimed at enhancing sustainable business practices. The initiative brought together industry leaders, sustainability experts, and stakeholders to discuss and simplify Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. By partnering with DHL and Olive Gaia, RAKEZ is not only promoting sustainability but also streamlining essential practices to help businesses navigate the complexities of modern operations.
A Collaborative Approach to ESG Standards
During the informative event titled “Simplifying ESG Governance: What’s Mandatory, What’s Smart, and What’s Next,” RAKEZ aimed to educate businesses on the evolving requirements of ESG regulations. The gathering featured presentations from RAKEZ, the Ras Al Khaimah Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Office (REEM), DHL Express UAE, and Olive Gaia. Participants shared insights into the latest developments linked to ESG governance and the emerging opportunities for companies amidst the increasing integration of sustainability considerations into regulatory frameworks, supply chains, and investor demands.
Building Strategic Partnerships
Bonnet Jain, Head of Strategy at RAKEZ, highlighted the pivotal role of ESG governance in fostering resilient companies prepared for future demands. He elaborated on RAKEZ’s commitment to cultivating a business environment centered on sustainable governance. This includes investing in robust infrastructure, promoting environmental efficiency initiatives, supporting transparent governance practices, and implementing community-focused development programs. Jain emphasized that shifting regulatory requirements and global market expectations are making ESG governance increasingly critical for businesses today.
Insights from Local Experts
Diya Al Shamsi, a Senior Energy Engineer at the Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, presented on the industrial efficiency agenda supporting sustainable economic growth within the emirate. Her talk emphasized the overarching Ras Al Khaimah Integrated Sustainability Strategy 2050, detailing initiatives aimed at decarbonizing the industrial sector, mandatory energy audits for major industries, and support programs designed to enhance energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption throughout the region.
Recent Strategic Agreements
The event culminated in two strategic partnerships aimed at expanding sustainability services within the RAKEZ framework. RAKEZ signed a Memorandum of Understanding with DHL Express UAE to establish a collaborative framework that allows RAKEZ clients to leverage advanced international logistics solutions, customs clearance support services, and sustainable shipping options through DHL’s “Go Green” program. Additionally, RAKEZ entered into a second agreement with Olive Gaia, a specialist in climate technology and sustainability solutions, with plans to enhance the practical adoption of ESG governance standards within the RAKEZ business community.
Rami Jalad, CEO of RAKEZ, remarked, “Sustainability has become an essential element in the growth journey of companies of all sizes, not just from a compliance perspective but as a factor that enhances operational resilience, efficiency, and long-term competitiveness. Through initiatives like these, we are committed to equipping the business community with practical knowledge, reliable expertise, and solutions that enable them to confidently navigate the evolving challenges of ESG governance.”