The Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) has announced its achievement of two prestigious awards this year, highlighting its strong commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. The group received the “Best Energy Management Initiative” award at the 9th edition of the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Business Leadership Awards for its “Rooftop Solar Energy Project,” marking a transformative shift in sustainable practices within the events and exhibitions sector.
The awarded initiative involves the installation of a fully integrated photovoltaic solar panel system on the rooftops of ADNEC Abu Dhabi, with a production capacity of up to 5 megawatts. Once operational, the system is expected to generate clean on-site energy, reduce dependence on the national grid, stabilize energy costs, and cut over 6,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually—reinforcing the group’s climate action efforts.
Commenting on the win, Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC, said: “This milestone marks a pivotal step in our journey toward net zero. It reflects our firm belief that bold and forward-looking sustainability investments are not just environmental responsibilities, but essential to the long-term resilience and growth of our business. By leveraging the UAE’s abundant solar energy and embedding energy responsibility into our core operations, we are setting a new regional benchmark for sustainable destinations.”
Ahmed Al Obaidli, Chief Operating Officer at ADNEC Abu Dhabi, added that the award underscores the team’s collaborative spirit in adopting innovative solutions with tangible impact and reinforces the center’s commitment to integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
In a further accomplishment, ADNEC also received the “Excellence in Strategic Procurement” award at the 2025 International Procurement and Supply Chain Awards, in recognition of its forward-thinking, ethical, and integrated procurement strategy, especially within the same solar energy project.
The awarding body praised ADNEC’s advanced corporate governance framework, its structured procurement processes, and the inclusive engagement of stakeholders. The project aligns closely with ADNEC’s ESG strategy and the UAE’s long-term national sustainability vision.
Al Dhaheri noted: “We view procurement as a key strategic function; one that unites departments to deliver innovative and impactful projects. This model has become a benchmark for efficient management of complex initiatives that meet operational, financial, and sustainability goals.”
Manal Al Ali, Executive Director of Finance and Procurement at ADNEC, added: “This recognition is a testament to integrated teamwork, sound governance, and responsible procurement practices that define our approach to sustainable business.”