du Leads UAE Telecom Sector with ISO 20400 Sustainability Certification
du, a prominent telecom and digital services provider in the UAE, has made a notable achievement. It is now the first telecom operator in the country and only the second in the GCC to obtain ISO 20400 Sustainable Procurement certification. This international standard highlights organizations that integrate environmental, social, and economic responsibility into procurement practices. As a result, du’s accomplishment signals strong alignment with evolving global and national sustainability goals.
The certification recognizes du’s comprehensive approach to sustainable procurement. Rather than focusing solely on compliance, the company has embedded sustainability deeply into supplier evaluations and decision-making. Consequently, this move supports the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy while also advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
A Structured Path Toward Sustainable Growth
By achieving ISO 20400, du reinforces its commitment to responsible sourcing and transparent operations. Moreover, it applies advanced supplier assessment tools to track progress and promote accountability across its supply chain. This proactive approach also encourages continuous improvement in vendor sustainability performance.
Adel AlRais, Head of Corporate Communication & Protocol at du, remarked: “Achieving ISO 20400 marks a major milestone in our sustainability journey and commitment to responsible operations across our value chain. This accomplishment aligns perfectly with market trends and the UAE’s national vision, and we will continue embedding sustainability deep into du’s supply chain and operations.”
Impact on Stakeholders and Industry Collaboration
The certification creates measurable benefits across du’s ecosystem. For instance, customers gain confidence in knowing that services are ethically and sustainably sourced. Suppliers, in turn, receive guidance and partnership opportunities to enhance their sustainability practices. Investors also benefit, as du’s certified procurement strategy helps mitigate ESG-related risks and supports long-term value creation.
Strategic partners such as CRIF AG, Dubatt, and Aramex PJSC were instrumental in building the foundation for du’s sustainable procurement framework. Their collaboration played a crucial role in achieving this certification and advancing responsible practices in the telecom sector.
