The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) has been awarded third place (Bronze) in the Research Institutes category of the Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award. This accolade recognises MBRSG’s excellence in sustainability research and its notable impact on climate policy in the UAE.
Advancing a Robust Research Ecosystem
This achievement highlights MBRSG’s continued commitment to developing a strong research ecosystem that supports sustainability and evidence-based policymaking. The School’s applied research is instrumental in advancing environmental priorities and climate action initiatives across the region.
Prestigious National Award
Organised by the Environment Agency, Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award is one of the UAE’s most prestigious honours, celebrating individuals and institutions for contributions to environmental protection and sustainable resource management. The award now covers all seven emirates, reflecting a national commitment to environmental excellence and global best practices.
Global Recognition and Benchmarking
MBRSG secured third place in the Research Institutes category, following Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and New York University Abu Dhabi, which took first and second place respectively. The award underlines the School’s integrated research approach, placing sustainability and climate change at the core of its knowledge agenda.
Statement from MBRSG Leadership
His Excellency Dr Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, said:
“This recognition affirms our long-standing commitment at the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government to leveraging scientific research in support of the UAE’s sustainability and climate priorities. Securing the Bronze Award in the Research Institutes category reflects both the calibre of our research outputs and their tangible impact on public policy development.”
He added:
“We will continue to reinforce our position as a thought leader advancing national and regional sustainability agendas through applied research, strategic partnerships, and specialised academic programmes.”
Flagship Research Initiatives
Key initiatives underpinning this recognition include the annual Arab Region SDG Index and Dashboards Report, produced in partnership with the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN). The report monitors progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals across 22 Arab countries and offers data-driven insights for policymakers.
MBRSG has also published specialised studies on climate finance, green recovery, and policy frameworks for climate risk in the GCC region. A report with HSBC titled ‘Addressing the Physical Risks of Climate Change in the GCC: The Role of Policy and Finance’ provides actionable recommendations for regional decision-makers.
Strategic Partnerships for Maximum Impact
MBRSG extends its influence through collaborations with UN SDSN, UNDP, the World Governments Summit, UAE Prime Minister’s Office, and the UAE National Committee on SDGs. The School participates in UNFCCC Capacity-Building initiatives and engages in COP28 and COP29 knowledge partnerships.
Driving Sustainability and Climate Leadership
This recognition demonstrates MBRSG’s ability to align scientific research with sustainable development priorities and supports the UAE model of converting knowledge into actionable policy. The achievement also encourages the expansion of research in green finance, climate adaptation, and regional climate policy leadership.
The Arab Region SDG Index and Dashboards Report is available here.
MBRSG’s full research portfolio can be accessed via its research portal. To access this please visit,