DUBAI: In a significant step towards promoting sustainable development in the United Arab Emirates, Expo City Dubai has signed a strategic agreement with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to integrate the Whole Life Carbon Assessment (WLCA) into its projects. This collaboration positions Expo City as the first developer in the UAE to adopt the RICS' WLCA standard, which is recognized for its ability to facilitate consistent and precise carbon measurement within the built environment. According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was formalized by Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer at Expo City Dubai, and Belinda Howell, Executive Director, Middle East and Africa at RICS. Representatives from the Emirates Green Building Council were also present during the signing. The partnership aims to enhance sustainability practices in the construction sector across the UAE through training sessions, workshops, and courses focused on the WLCA framework. These initiatives are desi gned to equip industry professionals with the necessary skills to support the UAE's goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The strategic alliance comes on the heels of Expo City Dubai's announcement of a new master plan, which will transform the 3.5 square kilometer area into a vibrant global hub. The city is expected to accommodate approximately 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals, making it a center for businesses, investors, and visitors who are aligned with its sustainable vision. Ahmed Al Khatib emphasized the importance of Expo City Dubai's role in the emirate's long-term prosperity, highlighting the project's commitment to environmentally responsible development. Tina Paillet, President of RICS, expressed pride in the partnership, noting that it represents a growing collaboration between RICS and Expo City Dubai. She stated that the agreement is a testament to the commitment of both organizations to advance sustainability practices and technologies in the built environment. The pa rtnership underscores Expo City Dubai's role as a pivotal element of the 2040 Dubai Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate's economy by 2033. As part of this plan, the development of the Dubai South area is set to accelerate, further establishing Dubai as a leading global hub for trade, investment, business, and tourism. Expo City Dubai's new master plan positions the city as a central player in driving economic growth across key sectors, including trade and logistics, technology and innovation, and tourism.