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The 13th Global Sustainability and CSR Forum, organised by the Arabia CSR Network, concluded its two-day event in Dubai under the theme “Sustainable Growth: Orchestrating a Global Change.” The rebranded forum marked its transformation into a truly global platform, calling for unified action on pressing issues such as circular economy, food security, water cooperation, green finance, sustainable urban development, and youth empowerment.

Day two of the event featured in-depth sessions on clean energy transition, green finance, and urban sustainability. Experts and policymakers emphasized the convergence of technology, policy, and finance to achieve global net-zero ambitions. The discussions highlighted that sustainable finance plays a critical role in aligning risk, return, and resilience — essential components for a balanced global growth model.

Leadership Insights and Key Takeaways

Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Founder and CEO of Arabia CSR Network, underscored that the Forum represents a “harmonious movement for change”, translating global dialogue into actionable blueprints for a resilient and inclusive future. She noted that the event’s rebranding as a global platform reflects the region’s growing role in shaping sustainability conversations at the international level.

Other keynote speakers, including Maha Al Gargawi of Dubai Chambers and Dr. Yousef Al-Assaf of Rochester Institute of Technology – Dubai, echoed the importance of long-term vision and cross-sector collaboration. The sessions emphasized the role of academia, private sector leadership, and youth-driven innovation in driving collective transformation.

“Sustainability is no longer an option — it’s an operational imperative. Forums like these provide the blueprint for collaborative progress,” said one panel expert during the closing plenary.

Collaborative Partnerships and Support

The Forum was supported by several major organizations and partners, including Tristar Group, McDonald’s UAE, Al Sayer Group, Majra National CSR Fund (UAE), and key institutional collaborators such as Dubai Chambers, University of Dubai, Khaleej Times, Farnek, and the Emirates Environmental Group.

A highlight of the event was the fireside chat featuring Eugene Mayne of Tristar Group, who shared insights on corporate climate leadership and responsible growth models. The session emphasized that advancing sustainability requires both visionary leadership and on-ground execution strategies.

A Call to Orchestrate Global Change

The Forum’s central message was clear — achieving sustainable growth demands coordinated global action. It called on governments, industries, and communities to move beyond discussion toward implementation, ensuring that the principles of sustainability are embedded in every layer of policy and practice.

By bringing together thought leaders, change-makers, and corporate pioneers, the Arabia CSR Network has once again demonstrated that the GCC region is not just participating in the global sustainability movement — it is helping lead it.