Massive afforestation project covers key roads, blending sustainability, smart tech, and urban beauty
In the first half of 2025, Dubai planted more than 300,000 trees and seedlings as part of a large-scale greening and landscaping campaign led by Dubai Municipality. The ambitious project—valued at AED190 million—transformed over 3 million square metres of roadways and intersections into lush, eco-smart corridors aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Smart irrigation, native species, and bold design lead Dubai’s 2025 afforestation drive
Between January and June, Dubai Municipality planted native and ornamental species along major thoroughfares, including Al Khail Road, Sheikh Zayed Road, Sheikh Rashid Street, and Al Khawaneej Street. The campaign included more than 222,500 square metres of ground cover and seasonal flowers, supported by IoT-connected, underground irrigation systems designed to optimise water usage in the arid climate.
Species like ghaf, sidr, and neem (native), and chorisia, bougainvillaea, and royal poinciana (ornamental) were hand-picked for both beauty and resilience. Most were sourced from Dubai Municipality’s own nurseries, reinforcing sustainability and local adaptation.
Project combines aesthetics, sustainability, and urban identity
The campaign wasn’t just about trees—it included decorative fencing, soil preparation, vertical lighting inspired by Arab design, and smart monitoring systems. These enhancements contribute to Dubai’s broader identity as a forward-thinking, livable global city.
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“Landscaping projects were developed with urban and environmental standards in mind, focusing on plant diversity suited to local conditions,” said Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency
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Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, added, “We aim to offer a vibrant and healthy living environment, upholding Dubai’s identity while balancing nature with urban growth.”
The work was labour-intensive, involving landscape architects, field workers, irrigation engineers, and heavy machinery operators in a seamless coordination of design, transport, planting, and system calibration.
Massive green expansion—and what it really cost
Dubai’s afforestation effort reflects not only a visual transformation but a major investment in environmental infrastructure. The AED190 million budget covered:
- 300,000+ trees and seedlings
- Smart irrigation systems
- Decorative urban elements
- Ground preparation and lighting
By mid-2025, Dubai reported:
- 5.5 million trees and seedlings under management
- 8.7 million sq. m. of green areas
- 391.5 hectares of green space, up 67% from 2023
- 1.3 million linear metres of fencing
Dubai Municipality—founded in 1954—remains the driving force behind this transformation. With 37 departments and 150+ public services, it oversees everything from parks and urban planning to food safety, infrastructure, and public health.
This afforestation project marks another milestone in Dubai’s long-term vision to become one of the world’s most sustainable and livable cities, with green infrastructure at the heart of its urban DNA.
