This paper analyses the slow but steady shift from traditional energy sources to renewable energy sources within the Gulf States. With problems such as global warming and climate change looming over us, the region is working hard towards mitigation. Lower dependence on oil, bigger budgets for renewable energy, green building principles and spreading awareness among the general public are some of the ways in which the Gulf will achieve its goal of being «greener» in the coming years. It is believed now that the world has entered the beginning of the end of the oil era. The Gulf must take advantage of the situation and be pioneers in looking for green opportunities. The paper also analyses what each section of society –individual, corporate and government– can do to play their part in achieving sustainability.
Renewable energy in the Gulf, green buildings, solar energy in the UAE, environmental NGOs, Green initiatives in the Middle East.