ESG POLICY
Environmental and Social Governance Policy
Introduction
The updated Sustainability Strategy and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework for ADNEC Group underscores our strategic direction, aspirations, and firm commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and governance excellence. This enhanced strategy demonstrates significant advancements in ESG maturity, embedding sustainability deeply within our business operations, growth trajectory, and corporate ethos. It highlights our dedication to ethical practices and maximising sustainable value creation for all stakeholders, aligning closely with both national ambitions and international sustainability frameworks.
As a key player and one of Abu Dhabi’s most diversified conglomerates, ADNEC Group contributes significantly to the economic diversification and development of the emirate. With a robust regional and international footprint spanning six countries, the Group operates across seven distinct business clusters, including world-class exhibition venues, luxury hotels, food and beverage entities, event management services, and specialised leisure and tourism offerings.
ADNEC Group adheres to structured governance frameworks that ensure accountability and strategic alignment with its parent entity, Modon Holding. This alignment is pivotal to the sustainable development of Abu Dhabi, driving organic growth and responsible investment practices. The Group’s comprehensive ESG and sustainability strategy is further strengthened by its structured strategic management processes and rigorous performance management systems, fostering operational excellence and longterm sustainable value.
Through extensive stakeholder engagement and consultations, ADNEC Group has developed a holistic ESG framework addressing critical material topics such as greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, waste management, renewable energy utilisation, workforce well-being, ethical sourcing, and corporate governance. Central to this framework is our Net Zero Transition Plan, which outlines actionable projects aimed at achieving a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2045.
This revised policy document encapsulates our ESG achievements, continuous learning, and evolving strategic priorities, reaffirming our commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive, equitable, and lowcarbon future. We remain dedicated to collaborating with all stakeholders to drive forward our vision for sustainability and responsible business leadership.
Purpose of ADNEC Group ESG Policy
As a dedicated partner in achieving Abu Dhabi’s and the UAE’s sustainability and social responsibility ambitions, ADNEC Group has implemented numerous impactful initiatives that underline our ongoing commitment to sustainability. The launch of our refreshed Sustainability Strategy and ESG Framework marks a significant advancement, enhancing our structured approach to managing ESG initiatives and investments, aligned with clear, measurable goals and targets.
ADNEC Group’s sustainability journey will continue to evolve through regular refinement and improvement of ESG practices, fostering greater ESG maturity and establishing the Group as a leader in sustainability within our market and among peer organisations.
The introduction of this updated ESG policy further demonstrates our unwavering dedication to aligning with international, regional, and UAEspecific sustainability mandates and strategies.
This policy embodies ADNEC Group’s commitment to responsible business practices and outlines our strategic ESG priorities, clearly defined goals, and comprehensive transformation agenda. Across our business clusters and operations, the Group has embedded sustainability and ESG practices, cultivating a responsible mindset and proactive performance culture, mindful of long-term impacts and the well-being of future generations.
The policy integrates ESG principles deeper into decision-making processes, embedding sustainability within our corporate performance frameworks and providing robust mechanisms to effectively identify, mitigate, and manage ESG-related risks.
Applicable at the Group level and across all six business clusters (venues, events, tourism, food and beverages, services, and media), sustainability and ESG activities will be centrally coordinated and governed by a dedicated department. As part of the department’s ongoing responsibility, this ESG policy will be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect evolving best practices, stakeholder expectations, and strategic objectives.
To further strengthen our ESG commitment, ADNEC Group will deliver annual ESG training to employees, enhancing their understanding and ensuring consistent adherence to the principles outlined within this policy.
Roles and Responsibilities
Governance and control
Our governance framework includes continuous evaluation and measurement of ESG performance, independent oversight to reinforce accountability, and regular refinement of governance structures to effectively address evolving sustainability risks and opportunities.
Entity
Modon Holding Board of Directors
Modon Holding Group CEO
Responsibilities
Establishes the overarching sustainability and ESG strategy for Modon Holding and its subsidiaries, including ADNEC Group. Sets strategic objectives, high-level targets, and priorities aligned with applicable mandates and regulations. Provides oversight through regular reviews of ESG performance against established targets as reported by the Group CEO, ensuring accountability and transparency.
Leads the operational integration and execution of Modon Holding’s sustainability and ESG strategy across all subsidiaries. Ensures subsidiaries adhere to the established ESG framework and achieve set targets. Reports regularly to the Board of Directors on ESG performance, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and recommended actions.
Modon Holding Executive Management Committee
ADNEC Group Managing Director & Group CEO
Supports the Group CEO by reviewing and advising on ESG strategic direction, business planning processes, and priorities. Provides guidance on ESG policy development, strategic targets, procedures, risk management, annual goals, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Provides executive leadership and strategic direction for ADNEC Group’s sustainability strategy and ESG agenda. Ensures full alignment with Modon Holding’s ESG policies, targets, and standards. Oversees the management of ESG performance, risk management frameworks, and sustainability initiatives and projects across the organisation.
ADNEC Group Strategy & Sustainability Department
Awareness and Training
Leads the development, implementation, and monitoring of ADNEC Group’s ESG strategy and initiatives. Manages the ESG performance framework, coordinates sustainability activities across all business clusters, ensures alignment with recognised global ESG standards, and facilitates transparent ESG reporting. Advises senior leadership on sustainability best practices, monitors performance against defined ESG objectives, and recommends areas for continuous improvement. Provides regular reporting to the Managing Director and Group CEO, detailing ESG achievements, challenges, and strategic recommendations.
The Strategy & Sustainability Department at ADNEC Group leads ESG awareness and capacity-building initiatives through targeted workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, and structured training programmes. These programmes are aligned with international ESG standards, promoting continuous learning, enhancing internal capabilities, and driving improved sustainability performance throughout the organisation.
Overarching Framework for ESG at ADNEC Group
1. Strategic Alignment
ADNEC Group’s ESG Framework and Strategy are aligned with the Group’s overall Corporate Strategy and guided by shareholder directions.
2. Vision and Aspirations
The Group’s ESG vision and aspirations are shaped by shareholder priorities and relevant external frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), and UAE national priorities.
3. Implementation and Action Plans
Guided by the overarching ESG Strategy, targeted sub-strategies and detailed action plans are developed and implemented across ADNEC Group to effectively deliver ESG objectives.
4. Subsidiary and Cluster Contributions
Each subsidiary or business cluster actively contributes to the Group’s ESG Strategy by defining tailored goals and action plans. These are aligned with Group-level strategic direction, while addressing specific material topics, operational requirements, constraints, and stakeholder expectations unique to their context.
Overview of ADNEC Integrated ESG Approach
In formulating its ESG Strategy, ADNEC Group undertook an extensive analysis of local and global trends, strategies, and methodologies, while gaining a deeper understanding of stakeholder expectations, to effectively define its ESG priorities and strategic direction.
• A comprehensive benchmarking exercise was conducted to gain deeper insights into leading practices among peer organisations regarding Sustainability Strategies and ESG frameworks. This exercise provided valuable information that informed the ongoing refinement and enhancement of ADNEC Group’s ESG journey.
• Material ESG topics were identified through extensive surveys and stakeholder engagement, both internally and externally. These topics represent the issues most significant to stakeholders and critical to the business operations of ADNEC Group.
• Detailed assessments of risks and opportunities related to each identified material ESG topic has been undertaken, facilitating a robust and proactive management approach.
• To ensure the effective implementation of ESG principles, ADNEC Group has formulated a clear ESG transformation agenda and strategy , emphasising actionable initiatives and measurable outcomes.
• The Group has also developed an integrated ESG approach focused on value creation across its operations. This approach targets value generation through revenue growth, cost optimisation, and the creation of intangible assets , ultimately driving sustainable business performance.
ESG Strategy
Protecting Our Land, Air, and Seas
Minimise ADNEC Group’s environmental footprint by reducing emissions, conserving natural resources, and advancing climate and ecosystem resilience across all operations.
Growing and Investing in Our Employees
Foster an inclusive, empowered, and future-ready workforce by advancing well-being, equity, skills development, and national talent integration across all business clusters.
Material Topics
1. Carbon Footprint and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
2. Energy Efficiency
3. Waste Management and Circular Economy
4. Sustainable Materials
5. Renewable Energy
6. Water Conservation and Management
Workforce Well-Being
Collaborating with Our Communities, Partners & Suppliers
Create shared value through meaningful partnerships, inclusive customer experiences, and active community engagement that enhances societal well-being and long-term stakeholder trust.
1. Customer Experience & Satisfaction
2. Community Initiatives and Engagement
3. Health & Safety
1. Air pollution
2. Green Building and Infrastructure
3. Emissions from Travel and Logistics
4. Event-Based Environmental Footprint
5. Noise Pollution
6. Soil & Land Use Impact
7. Water Quality Management
8. Climate Risk and Resilience
1. Significantly reduce Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions by improving energy efficiency, transitioning to renewable energy, and managing emissions from logistics and travel.
2. Minimise waste generation by enhancing recycling, promoting reuse, and prioritising sustainable and recyclable materials through circular economy practices.
3. Strengthen infrastructure and operational resilience by proactively addressing climate-related risks, implementing green building practices, and managing environmental impacts across events.
4. Responsibly manage natural resources by optimising water use, reducing pollution and protecting soil and land quality
1. Foster a supportive workplace by prioritising employee well-being, work-life balance, and occupational health and safety, creating a resilient and productive workforce.
2. Promote diversity, gender balance, and equal opportunity through inclusive hiring practices, development opportunities, and equitable career advancement.
3. Accelerate nationalisation and talent retention by investing in continuous training and development, preserving Emirati culture and identity, and positioning the organisation as an employer of choice.
4. Uphold fundamental human rights and proactively prevent discrimination, while encouraging employees to actively engage in meaningful volunteerism and community initiatives.
1. Cultural Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism
2. Equitable Access
3. Emirati Culture and Identity
4. Human Rights
5. Product and Service Innovation
6. Youth Engagement & Skills Development
Safeguarding our Assets & Values
Uphold the highest standards of governance, integrity, and operational resilience to protect ADNEC Group’s people, data, reputation, and longterm value.
Material Topics
1. Ethical Sourcing and Supply Chain Oversight
2. Data Security and Integrity
3. Business Ethics and Values
4. Corporate Governance
5. Business Continuity & Resilience
6. Transparency and ESG Disclosures
7. Operational Excellence and Innovation
Other Relevant Topics
1. Accurate and Timely Communication
2. Board Composition and Diversity
3. Fair Competition
4. Greenwashing Risk and Communication Integrity
5. Project Management
6. Regulatory Compliance
7. Risk Management and Internal Controls
8. Sustainability-Linked Finance Readiness
9. Whistleblowing
ESG Goals
1. Build strong, long-term relationships with local communities through inclusive engagement, impactful initiatives, and support for youth development and education.
2. Ensure safe, culturally inclusive, and accessible products and services that meet the diverse needs of ADNEC Group’s global and local audiences.
3. Drive sustainable growth by embedding human rights, innovation, and ethical practices across our value chain and partnerships.
1. Promote ethical conduct, responsible communication, and transparent governance practices that uphold stakeholder trust and regulatory compliance.
2. Strengthen cyber security, business continuity, and risk governance frameworks to ensure secure, adaptive, and future-ready operations
3. Ensure strong governance, senior management diversity, and responsible sourcing through robust oversight and alignment with ESG principles.
Alignment to National Mandates
In formulating its ESG Strategy, ADNEC Group undertook an extensive analysis of local and global trends, strategies, and methodologies, while gaining a deeper understanding of stakeholder expectations, to effectively define its ESG priorities and strategic direction.
TITLE
UAE Principles of the 50
Green Agenda 2030
UAE Net Zero 2050
Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy
UAE Energy Strategy 2050
We the UAE 2031
Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030
Abu Dhabi Environment Vision 2030
In-Country Value (ICV) Program
Modon Holding ESG Policy & Strategy
ADNEC Group’s Role and Contribution
ADNEC Group aligns through strategic contributions to economic diversification, Emiratisation, and sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing community engagement.
ADNEC Group supports the Green Agenda through initiatives promoting resource efficiency, renewable energy, waste reduction, and sustainable infrastructure across its operations.
ADNEC Group has a Net Zero Transition Plan aiming for a 50% carbon reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2045, leveraging renewable energy and energy efficiency.
ADNEC Group integrates climate resilience and emissions reduction across its value chain, supported by climate risk assessments and mitigation actions.
ADNEC Group advances energy efficiency, renewable energy projects, and innovative energy solutions such as AI-driven energy optimisation and solar PV installations.
ADNEC Group contributes by enhancing community well-being, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting inclusive economic growth through responsible business operations.
ADNEC Group supports this vision by investing in sustainable infrastructure, economic diversification, Emiratisation, talent development, and fostering innovation across business clusters.
ADNEC Group maintains certifications like ISO 14001 and Estidama, focusing on waste management, resource efficiency, and environmental conservation practices.
ADNEC Group aligns by prioritising local sourcing, supplier development, and ensuring significant local economic impact through ethical and responsible procurement practices.
ADNEC Group adheres closely to Modon Holding’s ESG policy, embedding ESG principles into its procurement, governance, and operational activities, ensuring comprehensive sustainability alignment.
ADNEC ESG Commitment and Transformation Agenda
Priority Area Material ESG Topics
• Carbon Footprint and Greenhouse Gas emissions
• Energy Efficiency
Protecting Our Land, Air, and Seas
• Waste Management and Circular Economy
• Sustainable Materials
• Renewable Energy
• Water Conservation and Management
What We Aspire to Achieve
1. Achieve a 50% reduction in Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and reach Net Zero by 2045.
2. Consistently enhance energy and water efficiency annually across all operations and facilities.
3. Achieve zero waste to landfill by 2030 through the implementation of robust circular economy practices.
4. Expand the use of sustainable and recyclable materials in infrastructure development, event operations, and procurement activities.
5. Increase the adoption of renewable energy to significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
6. Enhance organisational resilience through proactive management of climate-related risks across all strategic and operational activities.
Growing and Investing in Our Employees
• Workforce Well-Being
• Work-Life Balance
• Gender Balance and Equal Opportunity
• Nationalisation
• Health & Safety
1. Foster holistic workforce well-being by creating a supportive work environment that enhances employee health, safety, and overall job satisfaction.
2. Promote work-life balance to increase employee engagement, reduce burnout, and support long-term retention and productivity.
3. Achieve equitable gender representation, particularly within leadership roles, and ensure equal opportunities at every organisational level.
4. Prioritise nationalisation efforts by actively hiring, developing, and retaining national talent throughout the organisation.
5. Maintain rigorous health and safety standards to provide a safe, secure, and healthy working environment for all employees.
Collaborating with Our Communities, Partners, and Suppliers
• Customer Experience & Satisfaction
• Community Initiatives and Engagement
• Health & Safety
1. Deliver consistently exceptional customer experiences, fostering high levels of satisfaction and loyalty across all services.
2. Strengthen community relationships through targeted engagement, impactful initiatives, and meaningful local partnerships.
• Ethical Sourcing and Supply Chain Oversight
• Data Security and Integrity
• Business Ethics and Values
• Corporate Governance
1. Ensure responsible and ethical sourcing throughout our entire supply chain, aligning with internationally recognised ESG standards.
2. Safeguard data security and integrity through robust cybersecurity measures and proactive data governance practices.
3. Uphold the highest ethical standards and corporate governance practices, promoting accountability, transparency, and integrity across all business activities.
3. Uphold rigorous health and safety standards to provide secure, inclusive, and safe environments for customers, visitors, and partners. Safeguarding Our Assets and Values
• Business Continuity & Resilience
• Transparency and ESG Disclosures
• Operational Excellence and Innovation
4. Strengthen resilience and business continuity planning to effectively mitigate and manage operational disruptions.
5. Provide transparent, accurate, and timely ESG disclosures, fostering trust and confidence among all stakeholders.
6. Continuously drive operational excellence and innovation to optimise organisational performance and enhance market competitiveness.
ADNEC ESG Commitment and Transformation Agenda
1 This is based on ADNEC Group’s responsibility to align with its shareholder‘s (Modon Holding) aspirations and strategy for adopting ESG practices. ADNEC Group on an annual basis must submit its updated ESG performance against the topics and criteria that are material to the business. The information provided is based on: the strategy/targets the Group has defined, the measures (activities) deployed, and the results achived for each of the criteria identified by Modon Holding.
2 This consists of the reporting that ADNEC Group (or its specific business clusters / subsidiaries) submits to external stakeholders, in order to comply with the standards, guidelines, and mandates it has agreed to. Each external stakeholder represents its own specific reporting expectations.
3 This report is prepared and published annually, as part of the Group’s Annual Report. In it, ADNEC Group shares its ESG and sustainability goals, strategy, programmes and results.
4 This consists of ADNEC Group’s internal performance reporting that tracks the progress against its ESG strategy, updates on any ESG activities and the programmes defined, and the maturity of the organisation’s ESG capabilities. These reports are submitted to the ESG Committee and Executive Management / Board on a regular basis.
5 Annual targets are prepared and shared by each business cluster / subsidiary within the Group, in line with the Group’s reporting to its shareholders, the public, and any other external stakeholders as required. Additionally, on a regular basis, each business cluster prepares and shares its performance updates against the Group’s ESG strategy.
