The "Year of Sustainability" team announced that it will launch the "House of Sustainability" in the Green Zone at Expo City Dubai in conjunction with COP28. The public will be able to visit it from December 3 to 12 to learn about the UAE's journey toward climate neutrality, which is based on the country’s solid values in promoting comprehensive climate action. Mariam Al Muhairi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment and UAE Commissioner General for the COP28 pavilions, stated: "We have a unique opportunity to unify the world around a common goal of a sustainable future for our planet. As the UAE continues its journey toward climate neutrality, we draw from our ancestors' ability to overcome challenges by leveraging opportunities that enhance collective climate action. We encourage our guests to visit the House of Sustainability to learn more about the UAE's efforts throughout its history, as well as its ambitions for a prosperous sustainable future."
The "House of Sustainability" offers an interactive storytelling experience for delegations and guests of COP28, representatives from the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and the public across three main sections: "Oasis of Sustainability," "Our Journey to Collective Progress," and "Future of Our Sustainable Prosperity." The House of Sustainability will host public events during COP28, including "Bob COP" in the Oasis of Sustainability, a series of interactive workshops focused on climate action. The House of Sustainability, which was known as the UAE Pavilion during Expo 2020 Dubai, was designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, who drew inspiration for his designs from the falcon, the national bird of the UAE. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, announced the year 2023 as the "Year of Sustainability" in the UAE, which includes various initiatives, events, and activities highlighting the country's rich heritage in sustainable practices.