As previously announced, Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Dubai from December 1 to December 3 to attend the 28th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28). The Holy See Press Office released the official itinerary on November 9, marking a concise but impactful trip geared towards addressing the urgent need for climate action.

Historic Appearance at COP28

For the first time in the “Conference of the Parties” and his second visit to the United Arab Emirates following his 2019 trip to Abu Dhabi, Pope Francis will take part in the pivotal global gathering. His primary intervention is scheduled for Saturday, December 2, at Expo City, where he will address the assembled national leaders with a speech set to commence at 10 AM.

Upon his arrival in Dubai at 8:25 PM on Friday, December 1, following his 11:30 AM departure from Rome/Fiumicino International Airport, the Pope will be welcomed at Dubai World Central Airport. The following day after his COP28 address, Pope Francis will conduct private bilateral meetings, continuing into the afternoon from 3:30 PM to foster dialogue and solidarity among nations in the fight against climate adversity.

Inauguration of the Faith Pavilion

Culminating his visit, on Sunday, December 3, at 9 AM, Pope Francis will inaugurate the “Faith Pavilion” at Expo City. The Pavilion’s six primary objectives at COP28 are to

• Inspire the power of religions and religious leaders as agents of change for climate action,
• Highlight concrete actions by religious institutions and communities to curb climate change with measurable indicators and monitoring mechanisms,
• Promote a global coalition of religious leaders working together for climate action,
• Encourage religious leaders to engage in political dialogue and inspire climate ambition among political delegations,
• Achieve a historic alignment behind the call to climate action and
• Unify and maximize the collective action of religious actors at COP 28.

The Pope will also give a special greeting on this occasion.

Departure and Reflections

Following his engagements, Pope Francis will depart from Dubai World Central Airport at 10:45 AM, concluding his visit with a farewell ceremony at 10:15 AM. He is expected to arrive back in Rome at 2:40 PM.