Three Marriott Group hotels in Dubai have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable future by achieving Gold certification from the prestigious Green Globe Certification (GGC) program. This accomplishment marks a major milestone in their commitment to responsible tourism practices. The certified properties include the Delta Hotel by Marriott Jumeirah Beach and two Four Points by Sheraton hotels, located in Bur Dubai and on Sheikh Zayed Road. These certifications not only underscore Marriott’s dedication to eco-friendly initiatives but also reflect the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences among travelers worldwide.
The Green Globe certification, a globally recognized system for sustainability in travel and tourism, requires organizations to meet over 380 stringent indicators focused on reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible tourism. These indicators cover a wide range of areas, from energy and water efficiency to waste management and community engagement. Achieving Gold certification is a testament to the hotels’ commitment to adhering to these rigorous standards.
Farnek, a Dubai-based sustainability consultancy, played a crucial role in helping these Marriott properties achieve their Gold certification. With a strong partnership with Green Globe since 2009, Farnek has certified over 100 hotels and leisure facilities across the MENA region, demonstrating the growing importance of sustainability in tourism. Farnek’s audits of the three Marriott hotels revealed impressive compliance rates of 93% and above, highlighting the hotels’ commitment to minimizing their environmental footprint.
The Delta Hotel by Marriott Jumeirah Beach and the two Four Points by Sheraton properties achieved Gold certification through a series of innovative sustainability initiatives. These projects aimed to improve energy performance, reduce waste, and contribute to the UAE’s net-zero 2050 strategy. For example, the Delta Hotel by Marriott implemented initiatives such as retrofitting fresh air handling units to improve energy efficiency, installing motion sensor lighting in back-of-house areas, and providing reusable laundry bags made from old guest linen. The Four Points by Sheraton hotels introduced automated air conditioning cleaning systems, solar water heaters, and food recycling and waste management initiatives, significantly reducing their carbon emissions.
These hotels’ achievements highlight the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences. As travelers become more environmentally conscious, they are increasingly seeking hotels and travel experiences that align with their values, particularly in terms of environmental impact. This trend is driving changes within the hospitality industry, with businesses striving to implement sustainable practices to attract and retain guests.
The Gold certification of these Marriott hotels is not only a testament to their commitment to environmental responsibility but also a model for other hotels and leisure facilities worldwide. It encourages them to adopt similar practices, paving the way for a more sustainable future for the travel industry. As more hotels achieve sustainability certifications, the travel industry is poised to see a significant shift towards more responsible and eco-friendly operations, benefiting both the environment and travelers.
