ISSN: 2222-6990
Open access
This study examines the integration of Islamic principles with environmental initiatives in the United Arab Emirates as a practical governance model that links religious values to modern public policies within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals. It argues that Islamic values function not merely as a cultural reference, but as a normative system capable of guiding environmental decision making, enhancing policy effectiveness, and strengthening societal legitimacy, thereby supporting institutional, economic, and social sustainability. Using an analytical approach, the study conceptualizes Islamic principles as a value-based framework influencing policy design, legislation, and social behavior. It focuses on four core pillars: stewardship as a foundation for responsible resource management and non-depletion; the prohibition of extravagance as a regulatory principle for consumption rationalization and efficiency; the principle of public interest as a guiding logic for prioritizing long term environmental benefits over short term costs; and environmental protection in Islamic law as a basis for legal and regulatory standards. The study also highlights the green endowment model as an innovative and sustainable financing mechanism that diversifies funding sources for environmental initiatives and reduces their vulnerability to financial fluctuations. The findings indicate that the UAE has successfully developed an integrated environmental approach that balances international sustainability commitments with cultural and religious specificities. Environmental initiatives are translated into effective policies in clean energy, resource management, biodiversity protection, and emissions reduction, while societal acceptance is enhanced by linking sustainability to Islamic values such as trust and responsibility. The study concludes that this model aligns closely with the SDGs and offers a transferable governance framework for other Arab and Islamic contexts, provided that implementation tools, environmental awareness, and value-based evaluation mechanisms are further strengthened.
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