Pope Francis is coming to Dubai for COP28

The landmark trip marks his second visit to the UAE. 

COP28 is fast approaching and the world leaders will descend on Dubai. The latest leader to announce that they will join the United Nations Climate Change Conference is Pope Francis. The event runs from 30 November to 12 December at Dubai Expo City, and here’s what we know. 

Pope Francis is expected to attend between 1 to 3 December. He has been outspoken about the need to stop climate change. He explained: “We are still in time to stop it. Our future is at stake, the future of our children and our grandchildren. A bit of responsibility is needed.” During his papacy, he has made the environment a key issue. 

Pope Francis’ visit comes two weeks before his 87th birthday, which falls on 17 December. The Pope hails from Buenos Aires, Argentina. He became the head of the Catholic Church in March 2013. In February 2019, he became the first Pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula. He made a trip to Abu Dhabi and delivered an address in Zayed Sports City stadium, which was filled with symbolism and contained a large crucifix. 

King Charles III, who is King of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth, will also attend COP28. The trip marks his first visit to the UAE since he was crowned King. He will attend the COP28 Business and Philanthropy Climate Forum, which runs alongside the event. He will speak at COP28 on 1 December and is expected to share his vision for the future.

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GO: Visit www.cop28.com for more information.