1. Dubai Mangroves- The extensive coastal initiative in Dubai is still in its planning and experimental phases but promises a dramatic transformation of the city’s beaches once completed. Spanning 72km of coastline, the project involves planting greenery that will not only absorb significant amounts of CO2 but also shield the shores from erosion.
Once fully operational, the new trees in Dubai alone could offset the annual emissions equivalent to 260,000 vehicles. Currently, research focuses on six pilot zones situated at Jebel Ali Beach, Dubai Marina Beach, Jumeirah Public Beach, Umm Suqeim Beach, Mercato Beach, and Dubai Islands Beach.
Additionally, plans include the construction of a museum and visitor hub, providing opportunities to experience the project firsthand and support its environmental goals. However, completion of the mangroves is projected for the year 2040, indicating that full realization of the project may still be years away.
2. Dubai Flying Taxis- A collaboration between the RTA and JOBY Aviation and Skyports Infrastructure, the air taxi is set to transform public transport as we know it. The taxis will be entirely electric, looking classy and being ecofriendly at the same time. The traffic-busting flying taxis are expected to arrive in Dubai at the end of next year with flights taking off from four key points of the city initially, those being: Dubai International Airport, Dubai Downtown, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah.
Tests will be carried out on the aircraft over the next year and a half and once completed, it will see Dubai become the first city in the world to have inner-city air transport. The aim is for tickets to cost no more than a ride in an Uber Black but will take roughly a third of the time that a car would to get across the city. A journey between the Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Palm Jumeirah will take around 10 minutes as opposed to the 45 minutes it currently takes.
3. Expanding Cycling Paths- Dubai is actively expanding its cycling infrastructure, with a major focus on the 13.5km track that will link Dubai Hills to Al Sufouh. Once completed, cyclists will enjoy a direct path to the beach. To ensure continuous travel, the project includes the construction of two new bridges—one over Sheikh Zayed Road and another over Al Khail Road—as part of the Hessa Street initiative. This development aims to facilitate easier journeys for bicycles, scooters, and pedestrians, contributing to improved wellbeing and reduced congestion across Dubai. Scheduled for completion by 2030, those interested in eco-friendly transportation can already explore existing routes or opt for a leisurely ride using a Careem bike.
4. Banning Plastic Bags- Dubai has implemented a comprehensive ban on single-use bags citywide, applying to materials thinner than 57 micrometres. This ban encompasses not only plastic bags but also includes paper, biodegradable plant-based materials, and other biodegradable alternatives. This initiative aligns Dubai with global efforts to enhance sustainability in daily practices. It is now crucial to adopt reusable bags and materials that contribute positively to the city’s environmental goals. However, certain exceptions to the ban remain in place, including bags thicker than 58 micrometres, bags specifically used for packaging vegetables, meat, chicken, and fish, bread bags, and bin liners.
5. Hydrogen buses- Hydrogen buses have been introduced as a more environmentally friendly option for your daily commute. Currently in a trial phase, these vehicles use hydrogen instead of petrol or electricity, producing only water vapor as a byproduct. If the trial proves successful, there is potential for a broader implementation, which could significantly decrease pollution levels and enhance air quality throughout the city.
