The Green Makeover was launched as part of the "Heroes of the UAE - Private Sector programme" to assist companies in their bid to develop and benefit from sustainable business practices. Sponsored by Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy, The competition offers the chance to 5 companies to undergo an environmental audit and makeover worth up to AED 100,000. These makeovers aim to highlight the individual areas of water and energy demand and dependency which can be improved upon, resulting in long term financial savings.

The 'Green Makeover competition' asked companies to submit a proposal and include current efforts and plans for reducing energy and water consumption. Initially, the Kanoo Group and One to One hotel in Abu Dhabi were selected, and underwent and energy and environmental audit to calculate a baseline carbon footprint and identify potential savings. The audit showed that by adopting its recommended energy conservation practices, One to One Hotel could achieve a carbon footprint reduction of up to 17%, which would translate to total savings of around AED 72,000 annually. The Kanoo Group study showed that the company could achieve a carbon footprint reduction of up to 25%, which translates to AED 49,000 savings on the yearly energy bill by the implementation of energy efficient lighting. Further savings are projected through behavioural changes and by optimising the air conditioning system.

In early September 2010, the last 3 winners, Brightpoint, Aldar and Agility were announced and are now set to receive a ‘Green Makeover” that includes an environmental audit followed by a makeover.

These makeovers will be documented as case studies, providing in depth information about effective ways to reduce water and energy consumption to other companies that would like to follow suit.