Clean UAE 2025 Campaign Launches In Dubai With Community Engagement And Environmental Focus

The 24th cycle of the Clean UAE campaign, organised by the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), commenced in Dubai with robust community involvement. Under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's patronage, this initiative highlights the Year of Community, reinforcing its role as a key environmental action across all seven Emirates. The campaign will wrap up on 16th December in Abu Dhabi.

During the opening event on 6th December, held in collaboration with Dubai Municipality, 8,500 volunteers gathered at Bur Ruwayyah before spreading out to cover over 12 kilometres of natural terrain. Their efforts led to significant waste collection for recycling, showcasing the immediate impact of community-driven initiatives. Volunteers were equipped with sustainable cotton T-shirts, caps, gloves and biodegradable bags, reflecting EEG’s dedication to reducing single-use materials.

A total of 5,570 kg of general waste was collected alongside 1,000 kg of paper, 350 kg of plastic, 50 kg of aluminium cans, 500 kg of scrap metal and 500 kg of glass. All these materials were sent to local recycling facilities to support a circular economy. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, praised volunteers and partners for their dedication. She emphasised the campaign’s growth in scale and national importance.

Al Mar’ashi highlighted that Clean UAE aligns with the UAE’s sustainability priorities under the Year of Community by promoting unity and shared civic responsibility. Over its 24 years, it has become a platform for environmental education across generations and nationalities. She reaffirmed EEG’s motto "Together for a Better Environment," noting that the campaign contributes directly to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

McDonald’s UAE shared insights on its long-standing partnership with EEG. Walid Fakih, CEO of McDonald’s UAE, stated that the company remains committed to environmental responsibility through community partnerships. He noted that Clean UAE demonstrates the power of collective action. Al Mar’ashi thanked main sponsors McDonald’s UAE and Salik for their support.

She also acknowledged support sponsors — CANPACK Middle East, Dubai Investments and Farnek — along with technical partner ADNOC. The Arabia CSR Network was recognised as the campaign’s CSR partner. Contributions from supporting entities such as Abela and Co., Almarai, Aster Group and others were also appreciated.

Media Amplification and Future Goals

EEG expressed gratitude to media partners like Al Murad Group, Channel 4 and Gulf News for amplifying the campaign's message nationwide. In her closing remarks, Al Mar’ashi said the success of the Dubai launch reflects UAE’s unity and environmental awareness. She reaffirmed EEG's commitment to advancing sustainability while supporting UAE's transition to a circular economy.

The campaign continues nurturing a cleaner future for generations ahead by fostering civic pride and environmental consciousness among participants across various communities in the Emirates.

With inputs from WAM