Founded in 1999 by UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Zayed International Prize for the Environment is meant to recognize and encourage environmental achievements supporting and promoting the implementation of Agenda 21, Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation for Sustainable Development, in line with the vision and philosophy of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The prestigious award of this Foundation is worth US$ 1 million, but the scope is not limited to Prize awards. The foundation endeavors to promote sustainable development through various environmental initiatives and through propagating environmental awareness, addressing sustainability issues, conducting international and regional conferences, workshops and seminars, raising consciousness among the public, professionals, trade and the fraternity; in addition to publications and community activities.