Dubai Municipality has completed the plantation of over 300,000 trees along key intersections and major roads in the first half of 2025, investing around USD 51.7 million (AED 190 million) in a large-scale initiative that spans more than 3 million square meters.
Part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Green Dubai initiative, the project aimed not only to enhance the city’s aesthetics but also to deliver long-term environmental benefits.
The afforestation campaign targeted prominent locations such as Al Khail Road–Latifa bint Hamdan Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, and intersections on Sheikh Rashid Street and Al Khawaneej Street. In addition to planting trees, Dubai Municipality installed decorative fencing and smart underground irrigation systems managed via IoT-connected networks, ensuring efficient water usage in the city’s arid climate.
Over 300,000 trees and seedlings were planted, along with 222,500 square meters of ground cover and seasonal flowers. The planting strategy balanced native species—such as sidr, ghaf, and neem—with ornamental varieties like chorisia, washingtonia, royal poinciana, and bougainvillaea, all cultivated in Dubai Municipality’s nurseries.
“Projects were executed based on urban and environmental standards with a strong emphasis on plant diversity adapted to local conditions,” said Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality.
Executing this massive operation required coordinated efforts from planners, landscapers, irrigation engineers, and nursery teams, handling every stage from cultivation and site preparation to installation and water management.
The campaign also introduced unique design features, such as traditional Arab-inspired lighting poles at key junctions, adding a visual signature to Dubai’s evolving urban landscape.
By mid-2025, Dubai Municipality reported managing:
5.5 million trees and seedlings
8.7 million sq. m. of green spaces
2 million sq. m. of seasonal flowers
6.3 million sq. m. of ground covers
1.3 million linear meters of decorative fencing
Dubai’s green space grew by 67% in 2024, expanding from 234 hectares in 2023 to 391.5 hectares.
“Our goal is to reinforce Dubai’s identity as a sustainable global city while creating a healthy, vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike,” said Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality.
Operating since 1954, Dubai Municipality remains central to the emirate’s urban development, overseeing city planning, environmental management, public health, and infrastructure—ensuring Dubai continues to thrive as a livable, forward-thinking metropolis.
Source: The Times of India
