Commercial Bank of Dubai at the Dubai Future Sustainability Forum 2024: Backing the Nation’s Sustainability Ambitions

Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO of CBD, commented “This year, we are delighted to again sponsor the Dubai Future Sustainability Forum, a platform that enables us to reaffirm our commitment to sustainability and sustainable finance. Our proactive approach in addressing environmental challenges, exemplified by the successful issuance of CBD's inaugural green bond in 2023, demonstrates our alignment with global environmental goals. In 2024, by driving several sustainable finance initiatives, we aim to foster a more resilient economy while backing our customers’ sustainability ambitions. This commitment is a testament to our efforts in creating a greener future for all.”

Our long-standing partnership with the DIFC, which continues to play a key role in our shared innovation and sustainability journey, remains integral to our broader strategic vision. In 2021, CBD became the first UAE bank to establish a Research & Development facility in the DIFC Innovation Hub, and in 2023, we expanded our innovation hub space and continue to be the only UAE bank with a physical presence in this precinct.

Backing Our Customers’ Sustainability Ambitions – CBD Green Growth Account and Partnership with Goumbook to support UAE Mangrove Restoration

At CBD, we believe sustainability is a shared responsibility, and we are dedicated to supporting our customers in achieving their goals.

At this year’s Future Sustainability Forum, we will be launching the CBD Green Growth Account. This account has been developed in partnership with Goumbook, a leading UAE social enterprise dedicated to sustainability. The account not only helps our customers grow their savings but also contributes to mangrove planting initiatives in the UAE.

Driving Climate Accountability Through PCAF

In addition, we are pleased to announce that CBD has joined the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), a collaboration between financial institutions worldwide to enable harmonised assessments and disclosures of greenhouse gas emissions financed by loans and investments. This further demonstrates our commitment to backing the UAE’s sustainability ambitions, particularly its Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative. Additionally, it will enhance our decision-making based on consistent and comparable emissions data and will also provide CBD’s stakeholders with greater insight into the Bank’s progress in implementing its sustainability strategy.

Partnering with PwC to Drive Thought Leadership

To further support our sustainability efforts, we have also launched a dynamic thought leadership report, co-authored with PwC Middle East and titled ‘Empathising with Customers: Sustainability as a Key Differentiator for Banks’. Our collaboration with PwC reflects our dedication to shaping the future of sustainable finance. The report explores how integrating sustainability into banking practices is no longer optional but essential for banks to remain competitive and relevant. It highlights the importance of embedding sustainability features in product design to foster empathy and enhance customer experience.

Shaping a Greener Future Together

As we continue our sustainability transformation journey, we remain committed to advancing initiatives that drive environmental and social impact for good. From launching sustainable products like the Green Growth Account to setting ambitious goals for carbon neutrality, we are proud to contribute to the UAE’s broader vision for a greener future.

We look forward to collaborating with our partners, customers, and stakeholders as we take bold steps to shape a more sustainable tomorrow.

About Commercial Bank of Dubai:

Commercial Bank of Dubai was established in 1969 and is registered as a Public Shareholding Company (PSC). The Bank is listed on the Dubai Financial Market and is mostly owned by UAE Nationals including the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD). Over the years, Commercial Bank of Dubai has built itself into a progressive and modern Banking institution, endowed with a strong financial structure and strong management, as well as a loyal and ever-increasing customer and correspondent base. Today CBD is one of the leading banks in the United Arab Emirates and offers its customers a full range of retail and commercial banking products and services. 

For media inquiries, please contact: 

For additional information, contact CBD’s PR and Media team at [email protected] 
Ryan McCarthy – Senior Manager, Corporate Communications [email protected]
Areej Al Yousuf – Manager, Corporate Communications [email protected]