Terra, Expo City Dubai has been recognised with the title World’s Leading Sustainable Venue 2025 by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA). The prize was revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognised the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.
Terra stands as one of the Middle East’s most advanced examples of sustainable architecture. Designed by Grimshaw Architects, it has achieved LEED Platinum certification, reflecting its commitment to net-zero energy and water goals. The structure’s vast 130-metre canopy and surrounding ‘Energy Trees’ are fitted with nearly 5,000 solar panels, generating around 4 GWh of electricity annually—enough to meet the pavilion’s full energy needs. The partially buried of Terra reduces heat gain from the desert climate, while the building’s form encourages natural ventilation and shading, significantly cutting cooling demand
Anas Al Ablam of Dubai Tourism said: “We are delighted to receive this award on behalf of the people of Dubai. It is a pleasure to be recognised on this global stage for our achievements.”
Equally innovative is Terra’s approach to water and landscape management.
The pavilion captures and recycles greywater and condensate, harvesting up to 3,000 litres daily, while native and drought-tolerant plants reduce irrigation needs by about 75%. This combination of renewable energy, resource efficiency, and nature-based solutions not only demonstrates how architecture can adapt to harsh environments but also positions Terra as a living educational platform, showing visitors that sustainable living in arid regions is both achievable and inspiring.
WSTHA is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose partners and members represent over 66,000 hotels, eight million rooms globally, 300 brands, and over 100 supply chain and strategic partners.
Glenn Mandziuk, President & Chief Executive Officer, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said: “We extend our congratulations to Terra on being honoured. This achievement reflects an outstanding commitment to innovation, collaboration, and leadership in sustainable hospitality. At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are proud to recognise organisations that are not only redefining excellence in guest experience but also demonstrating that responsible business practices and sustainability are essential to the future of our industry – a Net Positive Hospitality future.”
Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, said: “Our organisation is dedicated to celebrating the individuals and companies setting new standards in protecting our planet for future generations – and Terra, Expo City Dubai is a truly deserving winner. It’s a privilege to recognise the organisation’s achievements at our second annual Gala Ceremony, and I wish the team continued success in the years ahead.”
