Dubai, UAE; 17 January 2015: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has become the first government body in the Middle East and North Africa to conduct an international survey, known as the Sustainability Culture Indicator Survey, to measure how prevalent its culture of sustainability is at DEWA; identifying organisational and individual enablers that enhance DEWA's capacity to implement the concept within its functions and operations. This supports the Dubai Plan 2021 to achieve the vision of Dubai's leaders to build a happy society and achieve the aspirations of citizens and residents, and is part of DEWA's efforts to support the sustainable development of Dubai and establish its leading performance in sustainability,

The study included all DEWA's divisions and departments under the supervision of AWAKE consultancy, which specialises in business consultancy, and organisational analysis, and was established by international sustainability specialists. This study is the first of its kind in the MENA region. It provides a roadmap based on established facts and results that ensure enhancing sustainability among organisations and raising the awareness of staff about it. This survey reflects the commitment of organisations to develop their organisational performance and provide their staff with knowledge programmes and qualifications, as well as improve and measure their capabilities and expertise, according to the highest international standards.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, emphasised DEWA's commitment to achieving organisational sustainability, led by the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which is the roadmap that ensures a brighter and happier future for Dubai.

"In line with our vision to become a sustainable world-class utility, we establish sustainability as an integral part of our strategy, directions and business. We are pleased with the results of the study, which underlines the high level of commitment of our staff to sustainability within and outside the working environment," added Al Tayer.

"DEWA is committed to the highest international development criteria. We incorporate sustainability within our strategy, organisational culture, and all our projects and activities. This is in line with the long-term national Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative, launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to establish the UAE as a centre for export and re-export of green products and technologies, in addition to driving a sustainable environment to support long-term economic growth," said Al Tayer.

The results of the study have further established sustainability as part of the organisational culture of DEWA. It also underlined the commitment of staff to sustainability, thanks to the training and development programmes and self-development sessions organised by DEWA for its staff. This promoted the concept of sustainability among all staff at all levels. According to AWAKE, DEWA's results exceeded the sustainability indicators achieved by other international organisations.

© Press Release 2015