Dubai Municipality has shared that in 2023, it planted more than 185,000 trees in the Emirate. This is part of its afforestation initiative, which saw an average of 500 trees planted daily, increasing the total green area by 234 hectares, up from 170 hectares in 2022.
The initiative aims to increase green spaces in residential areas and urban areas, as well as main and secondary roads and bridge intersections, with a particular emphasis on enhancing air and soil quality.
The trees were planned across 210 sites, including agricultural projects, nature reserves, and main and secondary roads in Deira and Bur Dubai, in addition to the Municipality’s parks.
Through the initiative, Dubai Municipality has introduced a variety of trees across its planting initiatives, including local environmental species, such as Ghaf, Sidr, Sumar, Neem, Olive, Samorova palm, Indian jasmine, and palm-like trees.
Many other evergreen plants, known for their rich green foliage, have also been included, including Washingtonia, Bismarckia, Pseudobombax, Poinciana, Bougainvillea, Acacia farnesiana, and Darsina.
Speaking about the initiative, H.E. Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said: “Green Dubai’s initiative is one of the key components of the Municipality’s strategic efforts towards sustainability. By safeguarding and optimizing the use of natural resources and elements as well as substantially lowering carbon emissions in the Emirate, this initiative seeks to have a positive effect on the environment. This is in line with the strategy and national goals to become carbon neutral by 2050.”
“The initiative significantly contributes to creating and enhancing green spaces for leisure, relaxation, and connecting with nature. Furthermore, it has also improved the cultural and aesthetic appeal of Dubai, ensuring environmental preservation for future generations,” Al Hajri added.