Why Dubai-based VCs are looking to invest in European climate tech

The Desert City of Dubai

Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns have become a pressing concern within the UAE. In April, Dubai experienced its heaviest rainfall in 75 years over a 24-hour period, triggering floods and chaos. A team of researchers from the World Weather Attribution initiative reported that this event was driven partly by the climate crisis which was bringing on a 10%-40% intensity in rainfall levels.

On July 20, temperatures also hit a high of 42 degrees centigrade at Dubai International Airport, according to data from the US National Weather Service. However, intense humidity that day compounded the heat to make it feel like more than 62 degrees.

Due to its desert landscape and proximity to the Persian Gulf, the city is particularly susceptible to extreme weather, putting climate impact top of mind. But Dubai’s climate also presents opportunities for climate tech innovation.

Dubai’s response plan

Dubai is increasingly focused on driving significant sustainable transformation across various industries. At last year’s COP28 conference, there was a consensus that progress was too slow across all areas of climate action — from reducing emissions and building resilience…