Around the world, governments are taking the lead in driving sustainability within the tourism and hospitality industry — setting standards, rewarding innovation, and shaping a greener future for travel.
One notable example is the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp, introduced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The programme was designed to recognise hotels that demonstrate outstanding commitment to sustainable practices across 19 key areas, including energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, responsible sourcing, and community engagement.
Under the initiative’s three-tier system (Gold, Silver, and Bronze), hotels are assessed annually to ensure continuous progress. Earlier this year, 153 hotels across Dubai received the DST Stamp. Among the Gold Tier recipients were Atlantis The Palm, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, and Paramount Hotel Midtown. Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel earned Silver recognition, while DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square was honoured with Bronze status.
The DST Stamp illustrates how policy-driven sustainability frameworks can motivate the private sector to adopt measurable environmental standards, aligning local tourism strategies with global goals such as Net Zero 2050.
As sustainability becomes a defining factor in hospitality success, such initiatives are setting a strong precedent for other destinations worldwide.
ABOUT GCSTIMES
Since 2011, GCSTlMES has pioneered sustainable development, evolving from smart card R&D to sustainable material innovation. Today, we stand as a global platform for sustainable solutions.
Sustainability is our foundation. Through technological innovation and creative solutions, GCSTlMES delivers diverse services and tangible products, positioning ourselves as both manufacturers and innovators.
GCSTlMES believes technology should empower human progress and cultural preservation. By integrating sustainability into technology, we aim to make it “warm” and purposeful. Our products serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting local heritage worldwide.
Brand Portfolio: GCS, AUROkeys, Xenyra, and Glint Spot, offering sustainable smart cards, creative (custom-shaped) key cards sustainable supplies, cultural gifts, and bespoke design and related services.
Currently, GCSTlMES has five operational centers in China, US, UAE, France, and Australia, along with 20 subsidiaries and offices worldwide. Its services extend to over 140 countries and regions supporting more than 100,000 international hospitality group in achieving low-carbon and sustainable development goals.
GCS Times
MKT Team