Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt has won the inaugural Best Minister in the World award at a summit in Dubai.

The World Government Summit is hosted by the United Arab Emirates and featured a keynote address from American President Barack Obama.

Mr Hunt was in Dubai to receive his award overnight, with the conference leaders saying he had played a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions.

His award was judged on criteria that included innovation, leadership, impact and reputation.

The World Government Summit is dedicated to shaping the future of government through innovation and technology.

World leaders, scientists and media experts are attending the summit which features forums on the future of renewable energy, zombie apocalypse preparedness and the future of money.

Keynote speakers also included Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens), the former president of Ireland, Mary Robinson, and ocean conservation advocate Lewis Pugh.

Greens leader Richard Di Natale expressed his surprise at Mr Hunt's award and criticised his record on the Great Barrier Reef and climate change.